BEING THE BOSS

Payal Bhalla Saraf

In today's edition of We The Women, we will learn more about Payal Bhalla Saraf who is an interior designer, and entrepreneur with a business in décor, named as Samaya. Born in Punjab and brought up in Jammu, Payal was always inclined towards fashion designing from an early age; and her outfit, shoes and accessories would reveal her fashion acumen. It was predictable that after passing out of her school Payal would pursue further studies in Fashion Designing and so she did. She went to Delhi to pursue Fashion Designing. How did she end up being an Interior designer and what is it like running a business in décor- let's find it out and more in the following excerpts from the conversation with Payal Bhalla Saraf.

Despite the flair of Fashion Designer, why you opted to acquire a degree in Interior designing?
It was my interest that led me to go for Fashion Designing. But when I went to Delhi for Fashion Designing, I realized that it isn't just about the interest but intent. I didn't intend to open a boutique after finishing my studies; I would rather have an export-import house. Also, I considered the huge flock pursuing the same line, which wouldn't give me an edge. Keeping in mind both, my future career perspectives and my inclination towards aesthetics and design, I decided to switch from Fashion Designing to Interior Designing.

What was your family's attitude towards your dreams and aspirations?
I always aspired to be a working person and not sit at home but my father was hesitant to allow me to go out of state to study or for a job. Fortunately his apprehensions were overpowered by my mother's help and support. It took blessings of both my parents to realise my dream of becoming a professional woman.

Could you share with us your professional journey and growth?
I always strive to establish and expand. Over a decade ago I indulged into furniture making wherein I design and get furniture custom made for my clients. We also get turnkey projects where we get the work done from scratch which often includes window dressing, lightings, wall make-up, ceiling and other such concepts; most of these are nascent in our state.
So far, I have worked with both public and private sector; from departmental offices to hotels. It has been engaging journey.

What were the challenges you fought through in your professional journey? Any difficulties you still face?
Ups and downs constitute everyone's journey; I have had my fair share of them as well. The primary challenge was to make people understand that there's more to interior designing than picking up shades of colour for the house and rooms, or providing some items to decorate the house, or picking furniture. Most people come for consultation after the house is built but the interior designing is something that should be considered and incorporated right from the beginning.
There are several hiccups we face on daily basis from labour problem to deliveries. We cart materials and products from several sources in Delhi, Mumbai and so on, which could be overwhelming to manage at times. But the challenges strengthen the motivation to excel and commitment to deliver.

What is your ideology for both professional and personal life?
I believe in time management and bonding over quality time, due to which I strive to balance between professional and personal life. I have not been a conventional home-maker but that doesn't mean I am not involved. There is a tradition in our house to gather in the evening after getting back from work and I always ensure that I am there at that family-time. Since both my kids are out of state for studies, I ensure I spend quality time and bond well with them when they are home. It is the children that you wish the world for and work hard for; you want nothing but the best for them.

What are your other interests?
I love getting soothed by good music. I thoroughly enjoy traveling and always look forward to such opportunities. I am a nature's person; I find myself at home in the hills or in the sand by the sea. Travelling to different places also expands my vision and stimulates ideas for my work.

What is next for you?
My future plans for now is to work in establishing Samaya and propel it to thrive. It is my main priority and point of focus at the moment.

What is your idea about women of our state? What is your message for them?
Women in Jammu and Kashmir are evolving, faster than ever before. There is surge in potential and self realization of calibre among these women. I believe sky is the limit for the women out there.
My message is simple. Pull up your sock and get set to take over this world.