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In this episode, Brooke sits down with the inspiring Jessica Bennett—founder, creative director, and podcast host at Alice Lane Interior Design and Alice Lane Home Collection. Known for her thoughtful, sophisticated interiors and warm approach to design, Jessica shares her entrepreneurial journey, how she transitioned from advertising to interior design, and the powerful "why" behind client choices.

They discuss the emotional and practical aspects of creating beautiful spaces—how even seasoned designers can feel paralyzed when decorating their own homes, why bold decisions can reignite creativity, and how the best interiors are deeply personal. Whether you love design or feel overwhelmed by it, this conversation will leave you encouraged to trust your gut, embrace your story, and design a home that feels like you.

Key Takeaways

• [01:45] Confidence in Design is Built Over Time: Jessica opens up about repainting her home in a bold, high-gloss teal—and how even as a pro, she felt paralyzed by the decision. Design can be emotional, and sometimes you need a friend or a pro to "boss you around" and help you move forward.

• [08:30] From Advertising to Interiors: Jessica shares how her early career in ad agencies (including working on Coca-Cola's 1996 Olympic campaign) taught her how to think big, understand brands deeply, and translate that vision into her work as a designer.

• [18:15] Every Design Tells a Story: The best interiors reflect the client's past, aspirations, and identity. Jessica illustrates this with a client who insisted on black-and-white checkered floors—a nostalgic nod to a beloved aunt that Jessica helped reimagine into something unique and timeless.

• [26:28] Launching Alice Lane in 2008 (Yes, During the Recession!): Jessica and her husband sold their custom home to fund their new brick-and-mortar store. She explains how they survived the economic downturn through passion, risk-taking, and creating a design aesthetic that stood apart from the Tuscan trends of the time.

• [40:56] Jessica's Kitchen Design Philosophy: Kitchens are the heart of the home and the starting point for any project. Jessica outlines her process, including why she always begins with appliance shopping to ensure the layout matches the client's needs and lifestyle.

• [42:06] Ice Makers Matter—Design is in the Details: From Scotsman chewable ice to KitchenAid cubes, Jessica shares why every decision—down to your preferred ice texture—should align with how you live and what brings joy to your daily rituals.

Notable Quotes

• (06:28) "It feels like I'm playing the best game called interior design with myself."

• (17:06) "I have to get in the kitchen with them to really understand their story." (on her personalized approach to client design)

• (21:07) "The highest vision of your idea is what we're after—not just what's trendy."

• (29:28) "If I didn't do it, it would have haunted me every day of my life." (on taking the risk to start Alice Lane)

Resources

• Explore Jessica's work and shop online: Alice Lane Home Collection

• Listen to the Dear Alice podcast for more design tips and inspiring conversations

• Check out the Coca-Cola video trailer

• Follow Alice Lane Interior Design on Instagram

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