How She Got There: Laura DiLibero

Name: Laura DiLibero

Age: 26

Job title and Description: Owner/Creative Director of York Design Company

Education and Major: University of Richmond Undergraduate (Major Communications) and Georgetown University Masters (Public Relations, Communications, and Marketing)

Twitter Handle: @YorkDesignCo

 

What is your daily routine usually like?

I usually go for a long run in the morning and flesh out all of my ideas for the day. Then I shower, dress, grab coffee, and go through e-mails. I usually try to respond to most emails first thing. The afternoons consist of all types of work: chatting with customers, discussing the line with different boutiques, coming up with new designs, playing with colors, brainstorming for new products, and ironing out details with the manufacturers; it’s constantly busy, but lots of fun!

 

What is the best part of your job?

Definitely the creative aspect – the sky’s the limit! We try everything and see what works. Nothing is ever routine. 

 

What was your first job and how did you get it?

My first job was the the United States Department of Justice. I applied right after college on a job board in the University of Richmond’s career center for a communications position – luckily, I got it!

 

What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?

Honestly, I’m still learning! I think it’s a bit of a blessing that I haven’t figured out the entire industry yet – not knowing all of the “ins and outs” gives me the confidence to try new things and approach all types of people! I think in any industry, the best thing to remember is that everyone started somewhere, so people are usually willing to help the new kid on the block. 

 

Congrats on YDC – the needlepoint cuffs are all so beautiful and unique! How did you come up with the idea?

Thank you! The idea stemmed from my love of crafting and home-made presents. I made a few needlepoint cuffs for friends and family, and the requests just kept coming! It snowballed into a business rather quickly. 

 

What is one thing about the daily life of a Founder of a company that would surprise Her Campus readers?

That sometimes, as a founder of a company, you have to force yourself to relax and take breaks. Your company is your “baby” if you founded it; there’s no going home at 6 pm because the hours are 24/7, so you have to make sure to schedule time for yourself and time with friends and family – the balance takes work!

 

Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?

It’s not one person – it’s all my customers. My customers are my biggest fans and best critics. They help me develop new products, offer priceless feedback, and help the company grow! I’ve learned the most from them.

 

Where do you hope to see YDC in 10 years?

I hope YDC is a thriving needlepoint accessories company with many amazing products. I want to continue to delight our customers and offer beautiful and unique pieces. 

 

What do you look for when considering hiring someone? I look for a can-do attitude. I appreciate new ideas, helpful actions, and willingness to learn. It isn’t about your skill set as much as your demeanor; anything can be taught, but strong drive and hard work ethic are inherent traits. 

 

What advice would you give to a twenty something with similar aspirations? Read, read, read! Get your hands on as many books/articles as you can about what your passions are and who you look up to. Learning is the best thing you can do for yourself when launching anything new. Also, I recommend reaching out to people that you’d like to learn from. As I said before, everyone started somewhere, and most people are willing to help and offer advice…so just ask!

York Design is coming to American U! The Delta Gamma Sorority is hosting a York Design trunk show.

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