921: TRANSFORMING spaces AND an entire industry at 20 years old w/ Gemma Cullen

Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

Discover how a 20-year-old entrepreneur is transforming spaces and lives! Join us as we host the inspiring Gemma Cullen, the young founder of Form + Function Co., who started her design firm while still pursuing her bachelor's degree in interior design. Gemma takes us through her extraordinary journey from humble beginnings—working on small projects for friends and family—to handling major renovations like Airbnbs in Boone, North Carolina. Her message is clear: passion and seizing opportunities are non-negotiable if you want to succeed. Get ready to feel motivated as Gemma shares her fearless approach to embracing potential failure as an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey.
Navigating the interior design world is no small feat, and Gemma opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome and the trials of her early projects. Imagine juggling deliveries, managing contractors, and keeping clients thrilled—all while dealing with self-doubt. Growing up in an immigrant family, Gemma’s story is one of resilience and hard work, values that have been her foundation. She shares invaluable tips on building trust and empathy with clients, emphasizing the importance of understanding their daily lives to create harmonious, functional spaces. Learn how to create a luxe feel without losing touch with practicality.
Curious about balancing business with academic life? Gemma is your go-to guide. She candidly discusses the complexities of running a design firm while managing a rigorous academic schedule, sharing insights from her demanding projects at Appalachian State University. From staying on top of interior design trends to handling the nitty-gritty of bookkeeping, Gemma’s minimalist and adaptable aesthetic keeps her work fresh and impactful. Plus, she offers practical advice for setting up productive work-from-home environments, stressing the importance of natural light and organization. Don't miss Gemma's future aspirations, including her pursuit of the NCIDQ certification, and how she plans to continue making waves in the design world. Tune in for an episode packed with inspiration, practical tips, and the drive to make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality.
ABOUT GEMMA

At only 19 years old, Gemma Cullen established her own design enterprise, Form and Function Co., while pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and holding a position as president of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) at Appalachian State University. Gemma's passion for design has been ingrained in her since childhood. Upon her graduation in 2025, she intends to maintain her business within the realm of high-end residential projects while also studying for her NCIDQ certification, which will authorize her to stamp her own construction documents as an accredited interior designer.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Form and Function Co’s Website
• Follow Form and Function Co. on Instagram
• Find Form and Function Co. on Facebook
• Connect with Gemma on LinkedIn

Kapitler

1. Passion and Determination in Entrepreneurship (00:00:00)

2. Empathy and Client Relationships in Design (00:11:09)

3. Entrepreneurial Challenges and Brand Development (00:19:50)

4. Designing for Impact and Future Success (00:26:33)

5. Engaging With Entrepreneurial Guests (00:34:26)