Meet Katelyn Block: Founder of Ivy & Co

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

Hi Katelyn, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always enjoyed being creative, whether it is decorating a cake, cooking a unique recipe, or designing a home. Creativity has always stirred a passion inside of me and Ivy & Co has given me a new outlet to do just that. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My passion for interior design led me to start Ivy & Co. I was inspired by a video I saw showing in detail how handmade textiles were made. I instantly had a new appreciation for the process and I began dreaming about starting my own business. At the time I was not working and looking for something that I could do while also being at home with my kids. I am incredibly grateful to be doing something that I love while also having a flexible schedule for my family. However, working from home does have its challenges, as many of us are juggling that this year! I find that a daily routine is helpful and I like to have my day or week planned out ahead of time. Part of the vision for Ivy & Co is to be more than just a shop. We desire to see positive change in the community and in the world around us. We want to make a difference by giving back. Every purchase at Ivy & Co makes a direct impact as we contribute a portion of each sale to a greater cause. I look forward to sharing more about this side of the business as we continue to grow! We are proud to share that we seek to use fair trade and sustainably made textiles for our pillow covers. We partner with companies in other countries for some of our products and many are handmade right here in Gilbert, Arizona.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Assuming this week long trip is not happening during the middle of summer, we would definitely do some hiking! I love the challenge and the views of Camelback mountain. While we are in Scottsdale we would have to visit some of my favorite restaurants! I love eating breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Henry and I especially adore their patio when the weather is nice. We would do some shopping at and around Fashion Square Mall and would have to dine at FnB. It is an amazing small little restaurant located right in down town Scottsdale. It’s best to make a reservation, and plan on sharing whatever you order, because you will want to have a taste of everything! Another fun spot to visit in Scottsdale is the Hotel Valley Ho, I love lounging by their pool with a cocktail. Over in Gilbert, which is where I live, one of our first stops would be breakfast and lattes at Liberty Market, from there we would walk around downtown, visit The Lifestyled Co shop, take a class at the Art House, and grab fresh juices from Kaleidoscope Juice.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe a big shoutout to my husband Casey! He has always been there to encourage and support me in all of my creative outlets. I would not have been able to pursue all that I have over the years without him. He has also played a large role in leading me to my passion for interior design. Early in our marriage Casey began remodeling homes in the Arizona real estate market, which gave me the opportunity to get involved in the design process. We still work together on occasional home remodels today, Casey is great at finding a home and I love stepping in with the creative vision for the remodel!

Website: www.theivyandcompany.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ivy_co/
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