A Barbara Walters Exclusive: The Story Behind Be Happy You’re Home [Sacramento,CA]

Barbara Walters: “Nicole, thank you for sitting down with me today. Your work with Be Happy You’re Home is inspiring so many. What sparked the idea for this incredible project?”

Nicole: “Thank you, Barbara. The idea for Be Happy You’re Home came to me during the pandemic. It was such a challenging time for everyone, and as a designer, I found myself struggling to keep up with in-person work. I realized that if I documented my process, I could help so many more people—and create something meaningful that could outlast me. My ultimate goal is to build a legacy here in Sacramento by helping local home and decor businesses thrive and transforming homes, one block at a time.”

Barbara Walters: “Your journey is fascinating. How has it shaped the mission of Be Happy You’re Home?”

Nicole: “Barbara, I’ve moved more than 20 times in my life. That’s a lot of blank walls and blank canvases! Each move taught me how to create a home on a shoestring budget. I was a waitress back then, thrifting and DIY-ing my way to spaces that felt like me. That experience shaped everything I do today. I know how to make a space look and feel incredible without spending a fortune, and that’s exactly what I teach.”

Barbara Walters: “I’ve asked this question so many times, but it always fascinates me. What does ‘home’ mean to you?”

Nicole: “Home is so much more than a place. It’s the stage where your life happens. It’s where you laugh, cry, rest, and dream. It's your primary environment, and it's way more important than some people think. To me, home doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to feel like you. That’s what I want to help people achieve.”

Barbara Walters: “Why Sacramento? What makes this city so special for Be Happy You’re Home?”

Nicole: “Sacramento has this incredible creative energy. It’s full of makers, dreamers, and small businesses that add so much character to the community. Supporting them is a big part of my mission because when they thrive, the whole city thrives. Sacramento is where vintage treasures meet modern style, where neighborhoods have personality, and where homes tell stories. It’s the perfect place to build something meaningful right in our backyard.”

Barbara Walters: “You’re dreaming big with this project. What is your long-term vision for Be Happy You’re Home?”

Nicole: “Oh, Barbara, I have huge dreams! I’d love to create a YouTube series for people in need, sponsored by local businesses and with help from community volunteers. Imagine connecting resources, education, and people together to help change the lives of their own neighbors. The big goal is to create happy homes and thriving communities across the country and maybe beyond.”

Barbara Walters: “Let’s talk about DesignSpoon. What is it, and why is it so important to your mission?”

Nicole: “DesignSpoon is like a recipe book for home design. It’s all about bite-sized learning—quick, actionable lessons to help people design their spaces without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for beginners, renters, or anyone who wants to make their home feel like them. 

Barbara Walters: “Let’s lighten things up. What’s a design ‘ick’ you secretly love fixing?”

Nicole: “Cords, Barbara. They’re the villains of home design! But I’ve mastered the art of hiding them. Battery-powered light bulbs are a game-changer, and cord covers can work wonders. Nothing feels better than an (almost) wireless room!

Barbara Walters: “What’s one piece of advice everyone should know about designing their home?”

Nicole: “Scrolling through Pinterest or binge-watching makeover shows won’t magically transform your home. The key is to stop chasing inspiration and start following a real process. When you take the time to follow a plan—step by step—you’ll create a home that not only looks amazing but also feels like you. Plus, you’ll save time, money, and avoid those frustrating design mistakes along the way.”

Barbara Walters: “Nicole, why are local businesses so important to Sacramento’s home and decor community?”

Nicole: “Oh, Barbara, they’re the heart of it all! Local businesses bring personality, creativity, and that one-of-a-kind charm to our city that Amazon just can't do. When you shop local, you’re not just buying furniture or decor—you’re supporting someone’s dream, creating jobs, and keeping our neighborhoods uniquely Sacramento.”

Barbara Walters: “And how does Be Happy You’re Home support these businesses?”

Nicole: “So far we have three ways we support: First, there’s our Decor Directory—a one-stop shop with over 180 local businesses. Whether you’re hunting for handmade goods or that perfect vintage chair, it’s all there. Then there are the events and workshops. We’re all about connecting ‘dwellers’—that’s our audience—with ‘makers.’ These events help small businesses thrive and bring the community together. Finally, we shine a spotlight on Sacramento’s gems. Through blogs, reels, and social posts, we’re always shouting out the incredible people and businesses that make this city special. It’s about shopping small, shopping local, and creating spaces you love.”

Barbara Walters: “It’s a beautiful mission, Nicole. If a business wanted to get involved, how would they do that?”

Nicole: “It’s simple, Barbara! If you’re a home or decor business looking to connect with our growing community, let’s partner. Reach out—we’d love to hear from you! At Be Happy You’re Home, our doors are always open.”

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