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

Hi Natalie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has changed over the years, especially since I became an entrepreneur. I started my design business while still working in the corporate world, and for years I grew my business as a “side hustle” while still working a full-time corporate job and juggling a family. At that time, I didn’t have as much balance…especially early on, when most nights I’d be logging on to work on my design business after my kids were asleep.

These days, I try to look at work life balance not so much as, “Did I allocate my time equally between my family, my work, and my other priorities?” each day because more often than not, there’s not an equal balance every day. Some days certain aspects have to take priority and require more time than others, so I try to look at balance over the course of the week. For instance, if there was a day where I had to prioritize a bigger workload, and focus more on client projects and deadlines, then the next day I would prioritize and fit in other aspects like exercise or family time to keep that balance over time.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business, CNC Home & Design, is a full-service interior design studio. We help high-achieving professional families throughout the west side of Cleveland, Ohio create more beautiful, functional, and family-friendly homes. Because of my years of experience in project management, we bring a very organized and thorough approach to our clients’ projects, which provides a more streamlined design experience for our clients. And because we handle all of the details on their behalf, so many of our clients have shared how much stress we’ve taken off their shoulders and how much time we’ve saved them throughout the whole process.

It makes me so proud to hear from our clients how much of a difference we’ve made in their and their families’ lives. Sharing that they “instantly feel relaxed” when they walk into their new space, or that their friends and family love their cozy, comfortable and entertaining-friendly living room so much that they never want to leave, or that we’ve created “a sanctuary” to help them rest and relax after a stressful day at the office makes me so incredibly grateful for the work I do. I’ve experienced firsthand how designing a home that’s right for you can impact your life in a positive way, and I appreciate and value the opportunity to create those ideal spaces for our clients and their families.

On the business side, I’ve learned over the years that entrepreneurship is more like a roller coaster than a carousel, and that staying resilient despite any challenges is crucial to long-term success. When I was first getting started, it was definitely a challenge at times putting in the extra hours late at night or on the weekends, but I learned so much about the dedication, commitment, and perseverance it takes to keep showing up, and how over time those efforts continued to grow. And I had hoped that continuing to put in the time and make those sacrifices would pay off and allow me to achieve a better work life balance in the future for my family, so that’s what kept me going.

I also learned the incredible value of having a support system, whether through a spouse or partner, family, friends, coaches or mentors to encourage you, especially through those difficult moments. Sometimes you need that little reminder that yes, you can do this…just keep going!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Because it’s always about the food and the view, one of my favorite places for an outdoor lunch is Michael Angelo’s Winery in Broadview Heights. Wine Bar in Rocky River is also a go-to, and Char (also on Detroit Rd in Rocky River) has an incredible brunch menu. For seafood and an unparalleled view of the city of Cleveland, Pier W is a must.

For an unexpected breakfast treat, I’d take them to Brewnuts in Gordon Square, to try out some of their delicious donuts. Emilie’s Coffee in Avon Lake has a variety of seasonal handcrafted coffees, and the most charming decor and ambiance.

If shopping was on the itinerary, I’d take them to some of my go-to local places for unique home decor or gifts, such as Wild Iris Home, Found Home Provisions, Lovely Paperie & Gifts, or Pure Enchantment. I always find something special, whether it’s for one of my clients or my own home!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve been fortunate to have so many friends, family, and mentors who have helped, guided, and taught me throughout my life and career. Ultimately, I have to give credit to my husband for being there throughout my entire entrepreneurship journey. I couldn’t have made it without his encouragement, love and support!

Website: https://www.cnchomedesign.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cnc-home-design/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnchomedesign/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cnchomedesign2503

Image Credits
Amanda Hemstreet Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio 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.