We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Maldonado and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
A big contributor is that I don’t take myself too seriously or worry about what others think. If I want to try something, I go for it. If it resonates with my clients and audience, I lean in harder. Ultimately, I’m always learning, growing, and evolving my business.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Looking back, it’s clear I was always meant for a creative career in art or design, but I didn’t grow up with that option. My childhood was sheltered, without exposure to movies, music, or art, and I was homeschooled. I never imagined finding this path. However, since age 11, I redecorated my room each year with birthday money. At 16, I hand-painted leopard spots from floor to ceiling on my bedroom walls.

About three years ago, I saw a friend pay a design firm a lot of money to style their space, and a lightbulb went off. I realized I could do something I love and make it accessible to anyone, even on a small budget. I launched my Instagram page, Styledmicasa, a few weeks later to offer free home decorating tips and affordable home styling services. It has since blossomed into so much more!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston and its surrounding suburbs have so many places to explore. We’ve only lived here for three years, and we’re still discovering new restaurants every week.

Our favorite brunch spots are Best Regards and The Audrey.

For dinner, I’m eager to try the new Toca Madera.

Must-visit spots include Old Town Spring for BBQ at Corkscrew and a day trip to see the Space Center.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am blessed to have the unwavering support of my husband, Luis and my family, they are always cheering me on and believing I can do anything that I set my mind to. My family and friends were the first to ask my for help decorating their homes and give me the practice and confidence I needed to launch Styledmicasa on Instagram.

Website: https://Www.styledmicasa.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/styledmicasa

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Styledmicasa

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.