Birthplace
Toronto
Genetic influences
My mother was a shopper extraordinaire. We share many traits that are at the core of my career successes. Our home, albeit small, was always beautifully furnished, ready for company at the drop of a hat, and all done on a shoestring budget.
Education
I am a proud graduate of the school of hard knocks. My life experiences within various companies and my numerous mentors have contributed to my ongoing education.
Career beginnings
Sales and marketing for a hospitality design firm in Toronto. When the in-house buyer left abruptly, they looked to me to fill the role. In those early days, I quite enjoyed being what I would describe as a professional shopper, someone who carefully spent someone else’s money on things that were familiar to us all. I felt very much at home in this environment and loved the challenge of trying to understand how to best serve a client and their designer while working closely with many vendors.
First dedicated hospitality company
Gerry Brown & Associates. Gerry mentored me for the 14 years we worked together. He taught me that the honest, frank approach is always best, and that relationships are critical in getting clients, vendors, and buyers through the inevitable challenges.
Milestone
Founding the Cardy Group in 1999
Select clients
Baccarat Hotels & Residences, W Hotels, Waldorf Astoria, St. Regis, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, 1 Hotels, and many more
Most challenging project
A conversion project several years ago that went through four design firms, seven model rooms, three contractors, and umpteen FF&E samples before landing on the final package.
Best advice
I learned early in my career from some great designers how critical it is to spend money where it counts: on items that a guest touches. The touch and feel of a well-made item speaks volumes and often leaves guests with a lasting impression.
Greatest rewards
The people we work with daily. A day doesn’t go by that I’m not inspired by someone or that I don’t learn something new. It’s heartening even after 35 years to have a job that energizes and excites me.
Stress relievers
A loft space on a friend’s property in Sonoma, where I try to reenergize as often as my schedule permits by drinking copious amounts of wine!
