Episode Details

Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur Emma Cross shares how childhood experiences, creativity, travel, and a willingness to say yes shaped her life and career.

Emma Cross knew she wanted to be a designer when she was five years old.

In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I sit down with Emma Cross, a Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur, to explore the experiences that shaped her life and career.

I first discovered Emma's shop while exploring North Berwick, Scotland. It's a 20 minute train ride from Queen Margaret University, home of our Texas State University Hub program.  Drawn in by the color and design, I was curious about the person behind the brand. Two of my Texas State University students selected Emma's business for our class branding project.  This gave me the perfect reason to reach out to Emma and learn more about her story.

During our interview, Emma talked about growing up in the servants' quarters of a grand estate and how that experience shaped her dreams.  She told me she finds inspiration from travel, family and classic films. Emma was captivated by Doris Day's role as an interior designer in Pillow Talk, an early influence that helped spark a lifelong passion for design.   She still goes back to Doris Day's iconic style for ideas.  

Emma's path to becoming an interior designer and entrepreneur wasn't a straight line.  She didn't get into art school. Instead, she built her career through experience, curiosity and a willingness to say yes when opportunities appeared—even when she didn't have everything figured out. She said yes.  

In This Episode

• How childhood experiences influence creativity and career choices

• Doris Day, Pillow Talk, and early influences on design

• The role of color, creativity, and personal style

• Building an interior design business through experience and opportunity

• Lessons from entrepreneurship and creative business ownership

• Learning to say yes before everything is figured out

Connect with Emma Cross

Interior Designer | Entrepreneur | Creative Business Owner

Website: emmacrossonline.com
Emma Cross - The Store 

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Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam. 

Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.

Learn, grow, teach.  

 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.