THE PORTRAIT: JESSICA MARGOT

When North Shore native Jessica Margot chose to move to Lake Forest with her young family about a decade ago, she was charmed by the community and all it had to offer. What she could not have known then was that a few major life changes were going to launch her to the place where she is today—better, stronger, and more successful than she ever thought possible. Perhaps this is because with every challenge that came her way (including a divorce and surviving a Melanoma scare in the midst of a pandemic) this eternal optimist was able to find a silver lining. “I really fell in love with Lake Forest for many reasons,” she says. “I loved the larger plots of land, the schools are wonderful, and the community as a whole is kind, supportive, and family oriented.” Margot, who launched her high end residential design business in 2004 (known as Jessica Margot Design) says it was a fortuitous moment during a vacation with friends that helped put all this change in motion. “I was diagnosed with Melanoma two weeks before shelter in place and that turned out to be the catalyst for my decision to want a divorce,” explains Margot, whose sons (Dante Jr. and Luca) are now 13 and “One of my best friends on a girls’ trip nudged me to go to the dermatologist, which ended up saving my life. I had not been since I was 15 so there was no baseline. So, ladies, take your girls’ trips and keep up with your derm!” With those friends and the community by her side, Margot was able to not only find her inner power but get to the other side. “I could have broken from that, or I could keep pressing forward,” she explains. “I knew my business and income was going to be vital for my ability to go through a divorce and support my two boys, so I chose to keep pressing forward. I had no choice. I became really dialed in to growing my business during that time and I’m proud to say I did just that.” Today, Jessica Margot Design is thriving and now she wants to pay it forward by supporting other mothers and businesswomen. “As a community member, I am all about supporting women in business, as well as small business owners. I have had a tremendous amount of support and loyalty on that front. It’s amazing what women can do when they come together and support each other.”

Early experience or memory that inspired you to become an interior designer? I was always rearranging furniture and loved observing beautiful spaces and places as a child, especially my study abroad trip in college where I spent a month in Milan, Italy. Ways your business and your work influences interiors for your own home? Coming out of a large marital home, I found a cozy, happy casita that has become not only mine but many others’ happy space. I transformed the home to give off a Malibu chic vibe with neutral earthy tones that are relaxed and inviting. What is your favorite thing about what you do? My amazing clientele. I love my job and career and feel very fortunate to have owned my own firm since 2004. What motivates you, both professionally and personally? Professionally, my motto is: “You are only as good as your last project” which keeps me on my toes. Personally, I am my own biggest critic, which also keeps me disciplined. My 10-plus years as a ballerina stuck with me and helps keep me driven and focused on healthy living and staying fit at 48! Favorite vacation, so far? Costa Rica. My boys and I love going there and plan on returning. Pure Vida! Favorite thing to do in Lake Forest? Walks along the beach and now visiting all the new and exciting restaurants. Favorite television series or film for eye candy interiors? White Lotus had a lot of neat and architectural design elements, plus travel is always inspiring to me. Favorite interior design icon? Mies Van Der Rohe. A true Icon. Favorite music to listen to while driving? Tropical house and European lounge music. What time of day are you most productive? Early morning or after lunch! Best advice you’ve given or received? “Just Do It!” As for advice I have given, I would say “you are the only person that can truly make yourself happy.” Pets? An adorable 5-year-old red fawn French Bulldog named Keria, who also goes by Kiki. Which famous person, living or dead, would you like to work with as an interior designer? Reese Witherspoon. She is a great mother, talented actress, and super successful. Next item to check off your bucket list? Barcelona and Paris!