Women of Lovelight
The women of Lovelight are a multi-faceated, multi-talented group spanning every department and every part of this business. So in order to properly celebrate them this International Women’s Day we wanted to bring you something different in this month’s blog. Instead of just telling you the story of one project, designer or staff member we decided to profile five incredible women from the Lovelight team.
Sonya works in our finance team and is an accounts payable superstar. She liaises with all our major suppliers and installers and provides weekly reports for the leadership team.
What is your favourite part of your job?
“I really enjoy relationship building. I find the good-will I am able to generate with suppliers and installers really helps when issues need to be resolved. I also love a good challenge - even if you ask me to create an urgent report – I’ll create a spreadsheet in no time!”
What drives you to be so successful in your work?
“Success to me is in being reliable, being accountable, and finding new ways to simplify processes. To be flexible and collaborative, and add value not only to the finance team, but to the broader operations of Lovelight.”
What or who inspire you?
“I follow Unique Fabrics on Instagram – their fabric designs are bold and innovative. They are one of our fabric suppliers, based in New Zealand. I also love The Local Project on Instagram – the opportunity to view stunning properties around Australia - the architecture, interior design and classy photography.”
Alannah works in the volume side of the business. Her team liaises and works with volume builders such as Metricon, McDonald Jones and Fairhaven.
What is your favourite part of your job?
“My team make my job incredibly enjoyable. I love being able to work with such a variety and amazing people.”
What drives you to be so successful in your work?
“Having been in the industry for over 10 years, I know it’s always about improving the level of service I provide. Growing my knowledge and efficiency drive me because I am my own best competitor!”
Which is the best project you have worked on at Lovelight?
“The display homes that I work with designers on are definitely the most enjoyable. I assist all the way from concept to seeing our products installed into a furnished home. I love seeing the selections come to life.”
Bridget Myers is a superstar sales consultant working within our custom division at Lovelight.
What is your favourite part of your job?
“The favourite part for me would seeing a project right through from tender stage to completion. Looking at drawings and technical specifications all the way through to walking through once everything has been installed in some of the most remarkable homes in Victoria.”
What drives you to be so successful in your work?
“Knowing that my hard work and perseverance will pay off! This may have stemmed from first working in direct competition with my Mum who is also a sales consultant as I always wanted to beat her each month. Nothing like a little friendly competition…”
Which is the best project you have worked on at Lovelight?
“I recently worked on a restoration project in Elwood. The house was originally built in 1886 and I have been working with Joan & Veda Interiors over the last 12 months to bring it to life. It’s certainly one of the more special jobs I have had the privilege of working on.”
Tell us about something which you find inspiring?
“A podcast that I love is called 'Listenable' hosted by Dylan Alcott & Angus O’loughlan. They speak to people living with disabilities about their lives and are trying to break down the stigmas attached to people living with a disability.”
Alex Carnie (AKA 'Sarge') oversees the operations of the entire business across various divisions. Sarge ensures we are constantly improving and implementing the right process and strategies across the business.
What is your favourite part of your job?
“The most rewarding part of my role is successfully rolling out new processes that are customised for each division and its team members; ultimately supporting a positive mindset, business culture and business efficiency”
What drives you to be so successful in your work?
“As a business, we strive constantly on improving our system and processes and seeing our team enjoying what they do - that is its biggest reward. Also, knowing I align with the company's vision and values assists in achieving my goals successfully.”
Katie is another stellar sales consultant in our custom residential and commercial developments.
What drives you to be so successful in your work?
“I love problem-solving and finding the best solution for each home/client. So, the biggest driver for me is working through a new design process, especially the unique or tricky ones.”
Which is the best project you have worked on at Lovelight?
“The most fun project I’ve worked on was probably Pearl Diver Restaurant. We worked closely with the designers to create an organic art piece. There was a lot of brainstorming with the designers and our suppliers, to custom design something none of us had ever done before, that was perfect for the aesthetic of the interior. We ended up with waves of fabric on the ceiling, that are the centrepiece of the restaurant as you walk in and under it to be seated.”
Who inspires you?
“I am inspired by Sarah Wilson, who wrote This One Wild & Precious Life. Her view of our place in the world, makes you view life differently. It is a raw and down-to-earth call to action on the issues every individual deals with.”