Designer Emilie McVay for Veteran William Franklin
Through the month of October, Furnishing Hope invited interior designers to furnish and stage a wounded hero's home. These designers shopped, coordinated, packed, and installed their warrior's home — all in one week.
When asked what it was like to work on the project, Emilie McVay replied, "When I first heard William's story, I definitely wanted to help and contribute — my brother works with the military and homeland security. Because I do staging for a living I thought, how fun, I get to actually see someone enjoy the benefits of what I do and what I've done my whole life."
The fact that William has two young daughters and recently received sole custody touched Emilie deeply. "He is dedicated and works hard to provide for them," she said.
As inspiration, Emilie drew from William's favorite colors — teal and red — and his love of the beach and modern styles.
Emilie earned a B.A. in Environmental Factors & Interior Design from CSULB and worked for three years at the Design Center South in Laguna Niguel. For over 20 years she has successfully operated her own residential interior design business, with expertise in space planning, kitchen and bath remodels, window coverings, lighting, furniture, and the art of transforming a house into a home. See more of her work at luminousstaging.com.
After seeing his furnished apartment for the first time, William Franklin said, "It's amazing. I never dreamed in a million years it would be… it's unbelievable. I would just like to thank everybody from the bottom of my heart. From me, Isabelle and Maddie — we thank you so much."
William's plans for the future are to be the best dad and man he can be — to take care of his girls, give thanks to God for his life, create unique art, and give back to those less fortunate.
