As a design student, the most exhilarating moment of my semester was when I picked up my phone and saw a response from Jodi Peterman, the owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs. After countless hours perfecting my portfolio and researching firms, hearing back from any firm was exciting—hearing back from EED, my top choice, was electrifying. With the internship offer graciously accepted, Jodi and I scheduled my training days.
On the first day, I met Haylee, EED’s lead designer, at a cozy coffee shop in Ankeny. Our bond over shared experiences at Iowa State created an immediate connection. We started our day at Moehl Millwork, where Haylee introduced me to the materials and showrooms I’d be working with. Walking through the space, I felt the pulse of creativity and innovation that defines EED’s approach to design.
One of the day’s highlights was a visit to Jodi’s apartment—a rare stop where a client wanted to test a sofa from a manufacturer we frequently recommend. This kind of personalized, luxury experience is something that sets Elizabeth Erin Designs apart. Not every client gets to try out their furniture in advance, but when it’s possible, EED goes the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction.
Afterward, we created some content, and I met Ally, the company’s marketing coordinator, who quickly made me feel like part of the team by introducing me on EED’s social media. Then, Haylee and I headed to a client’s home under construction, where she taught me the intricate art of measuring a house. It wasn’t just about getting dimensions—it was about understanding the space in a way that could transform a client’s vision into reality.
The day wrapped up with visits to The Flooring Guys and Fox Countertops. Haylee guided me through the process of selecting samples and taught me how each piece plays into the overall design scheme—another example of EED’s commitment to detail and quality.
My second day was spent with Jodi at the storage warehouse in Urbandale. She introduced me to the team who meticulously handles our inventory, another vital component of delivering the seamless, luxury experience EED is known for. We organized items for clients and updated the inventory list, working together to ensure every detail was perfect.
The training continued on day three, focusing on document creation—another key part of my role. Jodi’s guidance was invaluable, and her warm welcome to the team made a lasting impression. The EED-branded t-shirt, mug, and travel cup she gifted me were not just thoughtful—they were a tangible reminder that I was now part of something special.
After a couple months at Elizabeth Erin Designs, I can confidently say this experience has been nothing short of incredible. The entire team made me feel welcomed, supported, and ready to take on my role. This internship is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to learn from some of the best in the industry and contribute to a company that truly values its people and clients.
This journey has reinforced my passion for design and given me invaluable insights into the industry. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented team and to contribute to projects that truly make a difference in our clients’ lives. As I continue to grow and learn at Elizabeth Erin Designs, I’m excited for the future and all the incredible experiences yet to come.