Our second remarkable woman in business who spared a few minutes of her busy schedule to answer our questions is Deirdre Hardiman, the creative force and director of Hepburn Designs.

Deirdre made Ibiza her home in 2015 but has been coming over here for the last 20 years. She has previously worked and lived in California, Ireland, France and Greece. Her travelling experience was invaluable as it provided a first hand perspective of a diverse and broad range of design in so many different cultures and has added greatly to her vision and know-how.  In 2011 Deirdre was recognised for her business acumen, innovation and hard work and was awarded the Dublin City Enterprise Entrepreneur of the year award.

What originally brought you to Ibiza?

I was living and working in Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain and I came to Ibiza for a holiday in 1997 and I fell in love with the island. After five years of living in Spain I moved to Ireland. The magnet of Ibiza kept drawing me back for my holidays.  After 15 years of rain I knew I needed to make the move back to Spain and Ibiza was the obvious choice!

Was it a conscious business decision to start your enterprise on the island?

I have a very successful interior design firm in Dublin “Hepburn Designs”.  I was confident that I could bring my years of experience to Ibiza and open my business here.  I relished the challenge of a new environment and architectural style.  I grew up in Southern California, the similarities in the weather the play of light and the relaxed beach style are a second nature to me.

Can you tell us a little bit more on how your company began?

I worked as an interior designer for a well known television program in Dublin.  In 2009 I made the decision to strike out on my own.  Everyone thought I was mad starting a new business in a recession. I responded to the market by coming up with the idea of a one day design service “Designer for a Day” which made the services of an interior designer available to a broad market.  I worked within the budget of the clients whether that was IKEA, high end or anything in between.  “Designer for a Day” has been a huge success for me and often leads to the clients engaging me to manage their project.

What was your dream job as a kid? 

I wanted to be a veterinarian like two of my uncles, because I thought I would be playing with loads of cute puppies and kittens. As a child I was always moving the furniture around and building furniture from stuff I found in the garage or the garden. I didn’t know that such a thing as an Interior Designer existed!

What woman inspires you and why?

My mom Grainné has always been my biggest inspiration. She is bright and funny and thinks outside the box. She is strong and fearless and has the courage of her convictions. Despite adversity and some very difficult times she became a very successful and respected businesswoman. She has always challenged me to do whatever it takes to shoot the moon and find success and happiness in my life. She is truly a role model not only to me but to many other people whose lives she has touched in positive and inspiring ways.  

What do you think are the most important qualities of a female leader?

A great passion for what she does and believes in and the ability to articulate and inspire others to follow her. A great leader needs great supporters to achieve her goals.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

I love all the new and exciting ideas at the beginning stages of a project. I really love the joy of the clients when they see the dream realised.

What advice would you give to young women planning to start their own business?

Create a business in a field that you love. If you have the confidence and know how – go for it! If you feel you need to gain confidence and get more experience, work with the best company in your field until you are ready. Be prepared to face obstacles and be malleable to change your direction to respond to your client needs.

What is your secret to success?

Hard work, the support of my family and friends and the referrals from my clients.

What is your personal favorite spot on the island where you spend time when not working?

The winding road to Cala Vadella with it’s breathtaking view of  Es Vedra and the turquoise waters of the cove seen from a height always take my breath away. Cala Vadella cast a magical spell on me the first time I went there. I relish every opportunity I get to wiggle my toes in the sand in a beach side cafe with my friends and witness the awesomeness of that sunset.  

For more information and latest interior design tips visit Deirdre’s website here.

xxx

Deliciously Sorted Team