CEO of Solace Creations, Karen Porter, was inspired to create her business after building green homes with her ex-husband and sourcing double glazing from Melbourne, which prompted the company to offer her the opportunity to bring their products to the Canberra market. Karen’s experience in the public service developed her expertise in business continuity planning, risk management, and financial management – plus, she has the advantage of being a ‘people person’ who is naturally good at relationship building.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? And the most challenging?

“The most rewarding part is when our client lets us know that they notice a difference in the comfort of their home, their energy bill is a lot cheaper, or their home looks amazing. Most of our clients are very happy with our service and products and it is the unhappy ones that challenge me most. My personality is that I want to make people happy and when we don’t then that hits me hard. I have had to work on keeping my energy levels up and to not take things personally. We will always find a solution and always make it to a successful result.”

What do you consider to be your organisation’s key strengths?

“We are predominately a female-led business, and this makes women at home more comfortable with our home visits. We are all very focused on not only the design but also how to make the home more comfortable. We are a reseller, which means we have a couple of suppliers that we buy from, and we have one of the best showrooms in Australia. All of my team are relationship builders and really love interacting with our clients.”

Who inspires you?

“Many women in construction inspire me and also many women that own and run their own business. These women are often managing children, the house, and a busy role. I am inspired by their confidence and drive, and that they are really lovely swans that look like life is all under control, but their little legs are swimming madly under the water to keep going.”

Call Solace Creations on 6260 1621 or visit solacecreations.com.au to see how Karen Porter and her team can enhance your home.

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