In an exclusive interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Bri Macdonald, a rising star in the world of interior design and content creation, shares her journey of passion, perseverance, and purpose. With over a million followers across social media, Bri has cultivated a community that resonates with her commitment to sustainable design and storytelling. As a Habitat for Humanity ambassador and an advocate for responsible living, she seamlessly blends creativity with impact, designing homes and spaces that inspire. From her entrepreneurial spirit to her vision of launching a design show and charitable foundation, Bri’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, hard work, and dreaming big. Read on as she discusses the highs and lows of social media, her favorite sustainable brands, and the advice she has for young entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.
Meet Bri Macdonald, a vibrant content creator and talented interior designer on a mission to transform spaces and lives. With over 1 million cumulative followers on social media, Bri has captivated audiences with her unique style and passion for sustainable design. At just 25, she’s already made significant strides in her career, becoming a Habitat for Humanity ambassador, designing homes for some of the biggest names on the internet, and taking meetings with major networks to develop her own design show… all on her own! Recently, she took a huge step by hiring her childhood best friend as her first employee, proving that collaboration and friendship are at the heart of her journey. Bri’s committed to working with non-profits and championing sustainability in every project she takes on. With her infectious energy and dedication to making a difference, Bri is well on her way to becoming the next big name in TV interior design. Follow along as she continues to inspire and uplift through her work!
You’ve been building your brand on social media for five years. What kept you determined through the ups and downs, and how has that journey shaped you as a designer and content creator
Honestly, what really kept me motivated throughout this whole journey was my genuine love for what I do. Creating content about design isn’t just a job for me; it’s a passion. I think people can totally see that excitement and authenticity in my work. I’ve always enjoyed sharing my knowledge and tips with others. Growing up, whenever I’d walk into someone’s house and hear them mention a design dilemma, I couldn’t help but jump in with solutions or ideas. That thrill of helping others visualize their spaces has shaped me both as a designer and a content creator. It’s been an amazing ride, and those ups and downs have only fueled my determination to keep going!
Work-life balance is challenging for entrepreneurs and creators alike. Can you share some of the strategies you use to manage long hours while keeping your passion for design alive?
I have zero work-life balance right now. Some people might raise an eyebrow at that, but I truly believe that these years are crucial for me to put in the hard work and chase my dreams in the design field. Sure, I’m hustling on weekends and burning the midnight oil, but I make it a point to not miss out on life altogether. I always carve out time for family and friends because that connection is important.
To keep my passion for design alive amidst the grind, I dive into my hobbies every week—ballet, boxing, yoga, painting, and even volunteering. They really fuel my soul and help me recharge. It’s all about finding that little bit of balance where I can still pursue my dreams while keeping my spirit energized!
You’re passionate about sustainable design. What are some ways you incorporate sustainability into your projects, and why is this approach so important to you?
I am so happy you asked this question! I have been saying this for years, sustainable design will become the future—just wait. In 10 years, it will be the main topic of conversation for design trends. I proudly come from a fully sustainable family—an electric car and solar power are just part of our lifestyle. Plus, my sister did her masters in Climate Change at one of the top schools in the world, and I’ve learned so much from her.
This year, I’ve become one of the youngest Habitat for Humanity ambassadors, and getting to know their team and the positive impacts they have makes me super excited to be a long-term ambassador for them. I incorporate Habitat for Humanity and sustainable brands into every one of my projects. Whenever I need to clear out furniture or do a big renovation- I donate anything I can to the local Habitat’s ReStores.
I’ve also done a lot of research on sustainable brands, and currently, my favorite is Avocado Green Mattress. This approach is so important to me because I believe that design should not only be beautiful but also responsible. We have a responsibility to our planet, and I’m committed to making a difference through my work!
With over a million followers, you’ve created a community that connects with your story and values. How do you foster that relatability and keep your content fresh and inspiring?
Social media really came into my life as a way to express my creativity and share what I love. I’m all about educating, entertaining, and making a positive impact through my projects and volunteer work. I hope that shines through in everything I post!
When it comes to partnerships, I’m super selective. I only collaborate with brands that I genuinely believe in and use myself. There’s a lot of power in saying “No,” and I turn down a lot of opportunities because I want to uplift others, not just chase the cash. I am in this for the long run, and dream of making it onto the big screen, create my own line of products, and most important fostering positivity and inspiration
To keep my content relatable and fresh, I always focus on authenticity. I share my real experiences, challenges, and successes while staying true to my values. Engaging with my community helps too! I love hearing their stories and feedback, which keeps me inspired and connected. Ultimately, it’s all about creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and motivated!
Looking ahead, what are your biggest goals for the future, and what advice would you give to other young entrepreneurs with dreams of making it big?
This year, I’ve really learned to shoot for the stars—because why not, right? I’ve got so many dreams that I can’t help but get giddy just thinking about them! I can totally picture myself hosting a design show where I can create, design, and inspire through TV.
In the next couple of years, I hope to grow my team a bit more. Right now, it’s just me, my newest hire which just so happens to be my childhood best friend, and my mom keeping the motivation high! I can definitely see myself becoming the next Martha Stewart for interior design, complete with accessible product lines.
I also want to dive deeper into charity work. My short-term goal is to lend my skills as a designer for Make-A-Wish and travel with Habitat for Humanity to help build houses. Long term goal would definitely be to start my own foundation.
As for advice for other young entrepreneurs dreaming big—don’t hold back! Embrace your passions, surround yourself with supportive people, and take those risks. Trust your vision and keep pushing forward; you never know what amazing opportunities are waiting just around the corner!
The post Building a Legacy in Design: Bri Macdonald’s Inspiring Journey to the Big Screen first appeared on CanadianSME Small Business Magazine.