Jeri Cerutti, IRN – President
Simply Sophisticated Spaces – Winchester MA
My redecorating “career” started around the time I learned to walk. Though Mom may have regretted saying yes to repainting my dresser red, she was always an enthusiastic supporter of my little design schemes.
Though I majored in interior design in college, I always felt there was a disconnect between the conventional practices I learned in school and everyday living. I soon found that Lauri Ward’s Use What You Have® decorating ideas addressed that issue; and I become a Certified Interior Redecorator™ as a result.
I am truly honored to be part of a group of such talented, creative professionals, and gratified to watch the rest of the design world catch up to the time-tested system we offer: reusing; renewing and recycling – for the beauty and comfort of our homes, as well as our planet.
Rosalee Cline, IRN – Vice President
Redecorated Interiors, Richmond, VA
When my third daughter left for college, I realized it was finally time for me. After having my own design business, and working for a Fortune 500 company in the design field, I became aware of the frustration clients sometimes experience with a traditional design approach.
I was looking for something different when I learned of Lauri Ward’s Use What You Have Decorating Program. Lauri’s innovative approach to decorating and stylish living resonated with me. After I was trained and became certified, I realized I had found my true calling. I will never tire of watching clients’ faces after I have transformed a space in their home, they always smile!
As a member of the Interior Redecorators Network since 2007, it has been wonderful to meet so many others who share this creative view of Interior Decorating. The benefits of interacting with colleagues through a national organization cannot be overstated. The opportunities to continue learning about the latest influences in the design world, and the friendships with IRN members all over the US, Canada and beyond have enriched my life.
I have grown as a decorator, indeed as a person, while working with the Membership Committee, the Conference Committee, the Newsletter Committee and of course, with the individual members and Lauri and Joe Ward. As Vice President, now more than ever I am here to serve, support and strengthen the IRN.
Betty Spence, IRN – Information Officer
reSort reDecorate – Boyne City, MI
Though I have a degree in business, decorating has always been my passion, and I have accumulated loads of books on the subject over the years. But Lauri Ward’s “Use What You Have Decorating” has always been my favorite.
In 2005, I decided to pursue my dreams, and traveled to New York to be trained as a Certified Interior Redecorator™. Not long after that I left a thirty-seven year IT career to join the IRN, and have loved the friendship, support, and opportunities for continuing education.
Though tastes vary, I can say without a doubt that our system really works and is well received by every client in every region of the country. Nothing compares to helping people create a beautiful, functional space using their most loved treasures!
Lauren Smith, IRN – Treasurer
Your Space Refined – Rochester Hills, MI
Looking back, I was lucky my parents encouraged my childhood “habit” of rearranging the family furniture. Later, I went on to study interior design, and worked as a traditional designer for a few years. But what I really wanted was a way to help people enjoy their lives through great design — without breaking their budget.
I learned about the Interior Redecorators Network™ through a friend, enrolled in the training, and knew instantly that this was the right way to practice our craft. So I became a Certified Interior Redecorator® in 2007 and never looked back.
A client once told me her family life markedly improved after I redecorated her house, and I thought, what a wonderful thing we do: create; pursue our passions; and help others at the same time!
Kathy Dukta, IRN – Director
Move it Around-One Day Decorating – Pittsburgh, PA
After owning an art gallery in Pittsburgh for over eleven years, my passion for design, color and beauty led me to change my career; and in 2001 I became a Certified Interior Redecorator™ thanks to the pioneer of one-day redecorating, Lauri Ward.
Shortly after earning my certification I became a member of the Interior Redecorators Network®, and now consider it an honor to be one of its directors.
My vision in this role is to meet the needs of our members through continuing education while supporting and promoting their businesses. I am also dedicated to informing, involving and inspiring the public through the principles of this amazing organization.
Susan Hayes, IRN – Director
Re-Feather Your Nest Decorating – Chester, NJ
After being certified by Lauri Ward in Use What You Have® redecorating, I knew I had discovered my life’s passion and immediately joined the Interior Redecorators Network™. Now, I have the pleasure of helping educate clients every day, transforming their homes into places they love.
Since 2004 I have been fortunate enough to serve numerous roles on the IRN Board of Directors. I must also say, it has been gratifying to be part of an organization that continues setting such high standards, and which so enthusiastically supports its members, both professionally and personally.
I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead, and fully embrace Lauri Ward’s vision for success.