Carole
Carole’s design career began early — sewing clothing and home textiles for her family, and later professionally making custom draperies. She served eight years in the United States Air Force, bringing discipline, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic that still define her approach today.
After her military service, Carole completed university studies in what is now known as Consumer Sciences, earning education in:
- Interior Design
- Food Preparation & Restaurant Management
- Child Development
- Home Economics / Consumer Sciences
She went on to teach high school students in these fields and later founded her own catering business. Throughout every stage of her career, Carole continued designing homes, refurbishing furniture, sewing draperies, and transforming spaces for family, friends, and clients. Design, problem-solving, and caring for others have always been at the center of her work.
Mara
Mara grew up learning design at her mother’s side — sewing, painting, crafting, and helping with home projects from a young age. Her passion for design began with fashion, creating custom prom and special-occasion gowns, and evolved naturally into interior environments.
After sustaining serious injuries and navigating mobility challenges of her own, Mara retrained professionally and earned a degree in Interior Design & Decorating from Stratford University. Her experience working with people managing pain and disability has shaped a core part of Designing Divas’ mission: creating spaces that are not only beautiful, but supportive of mobility and changing physical needs.
Mara has trained alongside landscapers, carpenters, painters, and specialty contractors to fully understand the build process from concept through execution. She personally vets every contractor they work with to ensure they meet high standards of professionalism, respect, cleanliness, and workmanship — and they must pass the “Mom Test.”
