WOMEN TO WATCH

Laura Bass

Owner
Laura’s Draperies and Blinds Inc.

After dressing the homes in central Arkansas for more than a decade, Laura’s Draperies and Blinds is distinguished for its exclusive designs and luxurious simplicity. My breadth of influence spans from residential and commercial window coverings to distinctive collections of fabrics and trims, drapery hardware, wall coverings, upholstery and custom bedding. With a signature style that collocates original with polished, fused color, sophistication and spirited whimsy, and seamlessly blends diverse fabrics and trimmings under one roof, I strive to revolutionize the look, feel and meaning of draperies!

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion:

Since I was young, I continuously redecorated my bedroom. My mother was certain I would build a career in design. Upon graduating college I knew I wanted to specialize in a specialty niche, thus creating Laura’s Draperies and Blinds.

Best advice I ever received:

Pay attention to what makes you feel strong.

Most rewarding part of my job:

Installation day, for sure! Myself, my clients and installers all work so hard for this day. Weeks, sometimes months, are invested in creating a project, so seeing it come to fruition is like Christmas morning.

Advice for my 18-year-old self:

The greatest prison people live in is the fear of what other people will think.

Best career moment so far:

I recently opened a beautiful store in The Heights. Not only does the store showcase my abilities and product offerings, it allows for an inviting space for my clients to come browse our selections or discuss their project at hand.

If I could lunch with any woman, it would be:

Barbara Corcoran! Barbara is an expert in the art of leading a team to success and in how to build a successful business. Her advice and guidance would be invaluable.

My typical workday:

After dropping my three boys off at school, I typically stop by my store, check emails, pull samples needed, then dash out to begin a full day of consultations. I usually focus on appointments, installations and order processing throughout the day.

Biggest challenges in my career:

Growth. For years I feared I wouldn’t find employees who would represent my business accurately. Recently, I trusted new team members to join Laura’s Draperies and Blinds. Will Fisher and Monica Smith have added much value and I am grateful for them.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Neighborhood you live in

West Little Rock

Hometown

Mooresville, North Carolina

Last good read

“Rise and Grind: Outperform, Outwork and Outhustle Your Way to a More Successful and Rewarding Life” by Daymond John and Daniel Paisner

Favorite Food

Anything I don’t have to cook

Favorite Lunch Spot

Taziki’s

First thing you do at the office each morning

Turn on the music and light a candle

Last splurge

Vacation

Hobbies

Dream big with my husband and beat my kids at basketball

Dream Vacation

Just returned, Bora Bora!

Favorite Song

No time for a favorite, but my two-year-old is currently loving “The Wheels on the Bus”

SPONSORS