Work Smarter Not Harder: Cynthia Rowley

If you are new to Cedar & Rush, Work Smarter, Not Harder (WSNH) is a column showcasing Chicago’s leading ladies – think CEO’s, entrepreneurs, and everyday women making a difference – and how they work smarter, not harder. I decided upon Monday so we can kick off the week as productive and s motivated as possible.

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Today’s Work Smarter Not Harder guest is an absolute dream come true guys! I was recently invited to sit down with famous fashion designer, Cynthia Rowley, to discuss her newest business venture and productivity hacks.

The occasion? A celebratory debut, showcasing her furniture collaboration with Walter E. Smithe. Alison and I went together and we couldn’t have been more excited to meet with the designer one on one!

Did you know Cynthia is from Barrington, IL? I can also tell you first hand, her collection is as intricately designed and beautiful as her apparel.

Cynthia, if you happen to read this, thank you for your time and sharing your advice with us today. Congratulations on all your success!

So without further adieu, please meet Cynthia!

Cynthia, how do you feel about Walter E. Smith being an exclusive Chicagoland retailer carrying your collection? I’m super proud. Walter E. Smith is a premier furniture store in the Midwest and they have a huge representation. It’s a big collection and for it to be in my hometown is amazing. I have 160 pieces and it took about a year in the making. We just added 30-40 new pieces, so you can add to your assortment. If you want to get a few pieces now, then come back, there will be something to freshen it up.

You are known for fashion. What made you want to do the furniture side? It’s a dream come true. I went to the Art Institute. I was in fine arts and studied painting, but I always liked making things. To me, I wasn’t a fashion person that needed to do fashion. I just enjoyed creating. Maybe I could have been in furniture, architecture, or something entirely different. Who knows! I almost feel like I could have done just furniture too. I’m not saying I’m good at it, but I enjoy making it. It’s all the same thing.

What are you most excited about in your collection? I knew what I liked. What fabrics, colors, etc. All that stuff! I have the desk in my office, so I love that part of it.

It’s really a lot of work. I did the hardware, paint finishes and the mixing of colors – for example combining the navy and teal. We have rugs coming out Next April, which will complete the collection.

There were also so many things I didn’t know. So I had to learn a lot of things. It’s way more complicated than I could have imagined.

What time do you typically wake up in the morning? I do not sleep very much. Sometimes I get up at 5 AM, but usually no later than 7 AM.

How do you take your coffee? Just with milk.

What is your best piece of advice for getting sh*t done? Clearly it’s no sleep! When I work, I feel like I’m in a video game. It’s nonstop.

You know when they say, “if you want to get something done give it to a busy person?”. I’m always on that pace. So when I go into work, let’s go!

There is no social media. I’m totally focused and I never talk personal or take personal calls (unless it’s my kids). I’m really focused and crazy at work.

I also have a really good team, who’s crazy focused too.

Do you have any morning rituals? I get up. I get the coffee ready the night before. Then I just get up and go! I have a little gym in my house. I work out 15 to 20 minutes just to get me going.

I don’t check my email in the morning. I don’t do it before I go to sleep either.

The only exception is if I get up at 5 AM. At this time I will answer the other side of the world emails – like Australia or Asia. Then I start my normal day after that with no emails – coffee, workout, breakfast. Kid’s breakfast and kid’s lunch (if I don’t do it the night before).

I do a lot of preparation the night before.

I even try to think what I’m going to wear. No fashion crisis! It’s always the shoes that get me. I just want to wear sneakers. Sometimes it looks cool on others but it’s not a good look for me. You have to know what works for you.

One last question Cynthia. Where is your favorite place to eat while visiting Chicago? My mom’s kitchen!

Isn’t Cynthia a doll?! Not only is she graceful, humble and sweet – she was incredibly thoughtful answering each question. The biggest takeaway? Focus and absolutely no distractions while working.

Also, how bad do you want Cynthia’s dress {which she designed herself}? It comes in white too! And if you’ve never been to her Bucktown boutique, make it a point to get there.

And speaking of dresses – I received SO many compliments on my dress. Even Cynthia said she “really liked” it! I wore it with my magic bra and worked like a charm.

Want more? You can find all Work Smarter Not Harder posts right here.

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A special thank you to Alison for helping with photos, questions and directions! Can’t wait to do it again Alison! Who will be next?