With a degree in design and 20 years of leadership experience in the home fashion industry, RACHEL GREGERSEN started Beyond Shades, a Hunter Douglas Gallery and Showroom. Rachel and her team offer top brands that meet the commitment that they make to clients every day in their Oak Brook-based showroom. She feels strongly that every client is a VIP and deserves quality high-performance goods.

What is your business style?

My business style is 100 percent can-do. I have full faith that a small team of A players can do great things.

How do you impact your clients?

We are in the home comfort business. We want our clients thrilled with their decisions and work to that goal.

What are the hardest lessons you have learned as an entrepreneur?

You must respect and meet people where they are and appreciate them for who they uniquely are. Know that the only duplicate of yourself is in your mirror.

What organizations do you enjoy contributing to?

My late grandmother is my greatest giving inspiration. She taught me to give often and give where it counts. We like local places where the hard work is being done and the work is visible. A few favorites are the Elmhurst Food Pantry, The Cradle adoption agency, and My Block, My Hood, My City. I am professionally and personally very motivated to make small differences wherever I can. I have a soft spot for anything youth related.

What is your best networking advice?

Give freely of your knowledge and connections. You’ll meet amazing people who do the same for you.

What is your fashion style?

Full fashionista in my mind and practical uniforms in my day-to- day. I love color and glam.

What advice would you give to future Power Women?

See yourself at the finish line, then get there. You can get there.

For more information, visit bshades.com.