Making SHIFT Happen

Making SHIFT Happen In a Male-Dominated Construction Industry

Building quality developments. Community envolvement-revitalization. Partnership development. Employment development. As Margaret Lee what the tenets of her company are and this is what she will tell you. DesignStyles for LIVN provides full-service design-build and management services from start to finish. And as a Black woman in a male-dominated industry, Lee has forged a name for herself and her company. Part of her success lies in a mission statement that is focused on a cutting edge global brand with quality, integrity and accountability. DesignStyles is committed to helping revitalize communities while enhancing quality of life through affordable, safe and health environments.

What resources have you gotten from the EDGE so far that you want to share?

The EDGE is unique in the service it offers, which has been a true source of support in helping me develop and grow my business. The resources provide were mentorship and industry mentorship, where I was partnered with a mentor in my industry. It also helped me create my first marketing materials, classes like life skills training, public speaking, business planning and continue business consulting.

What was your “why” for going into business?

My journey started when I was that child in school—a child with big visions and dreams. At nine years old, I started my first business by making key chains out of beads. That is when knew I wanted to have my own business one day. As an adult, there were several things that made me want to take the leap. First, being black in Corporate America and the games that are played, like getting passed over for promotions even though you have more education and experience than the white person who landed the position. And then you have to train them to do the same job you are qualified. It is hidden racism that is experience daily.

Another reason was the lack of support I received when it came to having young children daycare age. For example, my children would get sick at different times. One time, one of my sons, who was 8 months old at the time, had an allergic reaction to a medication. I had to go pick him up from daycare and my boss asked me what was I going to do with him because they needed me at work. I told him I will have to take him to the doctor, and then take him home. A week later he fired me, gave me two week severance and a good reference.

Margaret Lee, Founder & CEO, DesignStyles For LIVN

After my divorce, I became a single parent with three small children to raise. I knew a 9 to 5 job would keep me in a box of poverty, despair and lack of financial freedom. Sitting on the floor one day looking at my options, I had $2.50 and a can of thread, so I decided to use my resources of creativity skills to generate money to start my business journey and the knowledge that my father taught me about construction.

After years of being in business, I realize I was born for entrepreneurship. I love design and construction. It is where I am supposed be.

What is it like being Black and a female in the construction industry?

It is a double challenge. It can be incredibly challenging at times because a lot of the men do not see you as a counter partner. They see you as a secretary, or behind the stove cooking and baking cookies (which I do like to do). But there was a lack of support, financial inclusion to grow, being overlooked for projects and even sexual harassment. On the positive side, there are some men who are incredibly supportive and welcome women because they see the value we can bring to the construction industry.

What problem does your business solve?

Our services focus on addressing our client’s critical issues, opportunities to develop and transform their project needs.

How does your business generate income?

We generate income through our four departments: Design Consulting, Management Services, Construction Contracting and various products.

How’s the health of your business today?

It is healthy, good and growing, but it still needs improvement. We have increased revenues in some areas, and we are looking to scale and expand.

What has COVID-19 taught you? How are you feeling about your emotional, physical and mental health?

Covid-19 has been an awaking. It has impacted our business in ways that we had to shift some things. The emotional frustration level is at an all-time high. We had to find other ways to physical workouts and it has been emotionally draining to have to fight COVID-19 and racism, all at the same time. To keep my mental and physical health, I go into my pray closet daily for prayer and meditation, and other activities.

What kinds of resources are important to you right now?

Business mentorship. Funding. Marketing.

What is the best advice you could give a fellow entrepreneur?

Seek God and tap into your spirit to find your purpose in life. Keep in mind what is important—mental, physical and financial wellness.

After years of being in business, I realize I was born for entrepreneurship. I love design and construction. It is where I am supposed be.

Restaurant renovation.

Are you working full-time or part-time in the business?

I am working in my business full-time, and every step I make to grow in my business in crucial.

Is your cash flow positive each month?

It varies sometimes, we just break even. It has been extremely difficult to get funding and lines of credit for my business.

How has this year changed the way you do business?

My spiritual wellness comes first, followed by family, community and

building better relationships.

Margaret Lee/EDGE ALUM 2001

Business Plan/Life Skills Training Consultation Circuit Rider Micro Loan

Connect with DesignStyles For LIVN

www.designstyles4livn.com Info@designstyles4lvin.com mlee@designstyles4livn.com 678-558-0438