52 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com /CharlestonWomen Charleston Women in Business The she-shed made its mark on popular culture when it became the central theme of a viral 2019 State Farm commercial. In the ad, a couple watches as Sheryl’s she-shed burns to a crisp after an unfortunate lightning strike. Sheryl, who is on the phone with her insurance agent, is assured that her insurance policy covers her she-shed. “You hear that, Victor, I’m getting a new she-she-er-she-shed,” announces Sheryl as her fancy chandelier comes down in flames. Instantly, women around the country were bitten by the she-shed bug. Scrapbookers envisioned a dedicated space for their supplies, musicians delighted in the fantasy of a private room to practice and moms dreamt of a place where they could escape for some peace and quiet. Sheryl was every woman, inciting a desire to challenge the man cave aesthetic with more feminine decor and more unique uses. One of the best of those uses, as more people work remotely or in hybrid conditions, is the perfect home office. Last year, entrepreneur Kimberly Russo found herself in a predicament that only a she-shed could solve. Russo runs a successful brand development and design business from home. She’s also a portrait artist specializing in pet portraits. When she moved in with her boyfriend, Russo realized that the dedicated workspace she had become accustomed to would not be possible in her new home. As the owner of a growing business, Russo was confident a she-shed would solve her square footage and storage problems while creating a space where she could meet with clients and collaborators, take virtual meetings and focus on her operation. She immediately went to work on what would become the On Brand Designs headquarters and Russo’s personal sanctuary. Russo chose a 10-by-20 manufactured structure and worked with an architect friend to render the space exactly as it would look and function. Russo’s contractor wired electrical from the main house and added insulation, paneling, paint and flooring to the building. Then Russo and her loved ones added wallpaper and other beautiful touches. In addition to running her business from her sheshed, the business owner also frequently entertains Show Us Your She-Shed BY ISABEL ALVAREZ ARATA The sitting area in Russo’s she-shed.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1