Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Additional Information - Awards Honors
Timeline
Karen Welchert

Karen Welchert

Summary

Highly skilled and efficient creative professional known for my ability to bring client visions to life through innovative design solutions. Strong track record of transforming ideas into reality and thriving in collaborative, results-driven environments. Expertise in content design and creation, space planning, and client relations. Well-equipped to tackle any project. Problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills are key assets contributing to team success. Dedicated and enthusiastic about advancing organizational objectives and ready to take on new challenges with confidence.

Overview

31
31
years of professional experience

Work History

Interior Designer & Owner

Set the Stage Interior Design
04.2004 - Current
  • Plans projects based on client's desires, budgets and requirements while infusing a one of a kind aesthetic fitting their lifestyle and needs
  • Designs floor plans, and material boards for review and presentation.
  • Selects finishes, colors and products to complete residential, commercial and decor projects
  • Collaborates with contractors to complete projects to desired specifications, on time and on or under budget
  • Interfaces effectively with contractors and vendors to resolve issues and discuss ideas.

Creative Studio Manager & Content Stylist

Oriental Trading Company
01.2006 - 03.2025
  • Established a positive work environment, fostering collaboration among staff members to improve productivity and creativity resulting in a high retention and engagement rate
  • Hired, trained, coached and provided clear vision to the team
  • Created detailed storyboards, layouts and renderings providing a visual representation of engaging solutions resulting in a 25% efficiency increase in team productivity
  • Delivered exceptional customer service to bolster strong relationships and build positive experiences
  • Managed creative projects, working within budget and scheduling requirements
  • Managed budgets and financial reports, ensuring fiscal responsibility and profitability.
  • Designed, managed and maintained realistic lifestyle photography sets
  • Secured and nurtured talent agencies and shooting locations to enhance both realism of the content as well as to showcase diversity

Creative Content Stylist & Trade Show Designer

THT Designs
05.1998 - 01.2006
  • Designed custom lifestyle sets, styled and produced content for use in multiple marketing channels
  • Collaborated with photographers to capture the best angles, lighting and propping ensuring the product took center stage
  • Designed and managed the fabrication of both temporary and permanent trade show booths throughout the US
  • Designed and managed the installation of trade show booth displays, pop up events and customer specific display needs, working the trade show as needed
  • Streamlined design processes, resulting in increased efficiency and faster project completion times.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment by supporting team members and assisting with tasks as necessary.

District Sales Manager

Jockey International
02.1994 - 03.1998
  • Developed and cultivated business growth by fostering professional, progressive and trusted customer relationships
  • Recruited, hired and onboarded district staff and implemented initiatives reducing turnover by 28%
  • Increased sales revenue by 17% developing and implementing effective sales strategies for the district.
  • Monitored operations to check and enforce regulatory and procedural compliance while increasing customer satisfaction by 45%
  • Developed managers into successful leaders through training and hands-on support


Education

Associate of Arts - Fashion Merchandising & Management

Metropolitan Community College, Omaha, NE

Certification - Floral Design

Metropolitan Community College, Omaha, NE

Certification - Interior Design & Staging

QC Design School

Skills

  • Creative Design Solutions
  • Project Management Coordination
  • Client Engagement
  • Budget Management

Additional Information - Awards Honors

  • Company culture award - Oriental Trading 2022
  • Innovation Award - Oriental Trading 2014
  • Innovation Award - Oriental Trading 2009
  • Best Home Design - Street of Dreams 2004
  • Best Kitchen Design - Street of Dreams 2004
  • Best Landscaping - Street of Dreams 2004

Timeline

Creative Studio Manager & Content Stylist - Oriental Trading Company
01.2006 - 03.2025
Interior Designer & Owner - Set the Stage Interior Design
04.2004 - Current
Creative Content Stylist & Trade Show Designer - THT Designs
05.1998 - 01.2006
District Sales Manager - Jockey International
02.1994 - 03.1998
QC Design School - Certification, Interior Design & Staging
Metropolitan Community College - Associate of Arts, Fashion Merchandising & Management
Metropolitan Community College - Certification, Floral Design
Karen Welchert