A Conversation with Shea McGee
Shea McGee of Studio McGee and McGee & Co.
Based in: Salt Lake City, Utah
Established: 2014
Shea has so much wisdom to share. We’re delighted to have her joining us in today’s conversation.
“I’ve admired Shea for years, and have also been inspired by her work ethic and pioneering in the industry. So a few years ago, I dropped a message in her DMs and basically forced her to be my friend.
On a site visit in Utah, we met for lunch. A few months later, with Aymee accompanying me, we met up again - this time with both Sid and Shea.
At dinner, we learned that Sid and Aymee are 7’s on the enneagram, while Shea and I are both 3’s. Kindred spirits to say the least. It was fun to connect with another Interior Design Studio that knew our roles and dynamics so personally.
Since then, we’ve stayed in touch and Shea is always there if I have a question or need advice. It’s been a blessing to develop a working relationship with such a wise supporter in the industry. She is as good as they come and the more I learn about her - the more I love her. Enjoy our conversation below. “ - Molly
Give us a little background into your business and journey to get there.
I started my design journey over a decade ago when we moved into our first apartment, and I became engrossed in the world of design. I loved interior design so much that I decided to pivot careers and start my design business. During this time, my husband Syd and I purchased our first home together and began by tearing out the kitchen soon after moving in. I was an early adopter of social media and used it to document the process and highlight my design abilities. My clientele grew quickly and my husband and I decided to go into business together – his business experience was a great balance to my creativity. We sold our home in Southern California and moved to Utah, using the money from our home as a runway to start our business. We launched Studio McGee 8 years ago with the two of us and now have just under 200 employees, clients across the country, a home décor store McGee & Co., a line at Target, and a show on Netflix called Dream Home Makeover. To say it has been a whirlwind would be an understatement.
When did you know you wanted to go all in and start your business?
After a very tough year for our family – new baby, financial struggles, and a gut feeling we should go for it.
What has been your biggest challenge since starting your business?
Juggling opportunities, problem solving, family time and self-care.
You’re filming for Dream Home Makeover right now, what is that world like? Is it what you expected? What’s your favorite part about filming?
It is fun and absolutely exhausting. Trying to run multiple businesses, add another job on top, and add filming with 3 young kids is crazy town. My favorite part of filming is reveal day! It is so gratifying to see our clients fall in love with their homes.
Looking back on your career so far, what has been your biggest achievement?
Creating a beautiful, but livable aesthetic that inspires people to do the same in their homes. Next would be making the New York Times bestseller list and three seasons of our Netflix show.
How would you describe the “Studio McGee” aesthetic?
Textural, Layered, Classic.
What’s your favorite part of the design process? What does the design process look like for your team?
My favorite part of the design process is when things start to click and you have an aha moment.
What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Being able to visualize a mood or outcome and then bringing it to life. This applies to both homes and products.
What's one piece of advice you'd have for someone wanting to pursue a career in design?
There is never a perfect time, but start now in your own home or for friends and family to test the waters and see if it is in fact the career you want to pursue.
What design concept are you most excited for in 2022?
I’m really excited about warm colors and updated takes on 90s inspired looks – deep reds, marigolds, and browns with traditional details.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Fashion, travel, flowers.
Rapid Fire!
A place on your bucket list?
Spain
Person who can make you laugh harder than anyone?
Syd
Go to podcast?
Sharon Says So
Top song on streaming app?
It changes a lot, but right now it is I Am Not Afraid by Charley Crockett
Last book you read?
People We Meet on Vacation
If you had a day free of all responsibilities, what would you do?
Workout, Play Tennis, Lounge by the Beach, Lounge by the pool
Favorite clothing store?
Shopbop
Biggest fear?
Failure and Snakes
Do you have kids? Names/ages?
Wren, 9. Ivy, 6. Margot, 7 months.
Doppelganger?
I’ve been told Christina Applegate.
Go to beverage order?
Diet Coke
What reality show would you thrive on?
Dream Home Makeover ;)
Enneagram number?
3
Project images are shot by Studio McGee.