Peer-to-Peer Podcast | Episode 12: Stephanie Wilkins

On this episode of the Peer-to-Peer Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Stephanie Wilkins, founder and CEO of The Soul of Sanctuary. Stephanie’s journey is one of transformation—from a social justice attorney to an interior designer focused on creating intentional spaces that promote healing, liberation, and joy.

This was our "wine edition," as Stephanie brought a glass to toast her story with us, making the conversation feel all the more authentic and down-to-earth.

From Law to Design: A Transformational Journey

Stephanie began her professional life working as a social justice attorney, passionately advocating for others. While she found purpose in the work, the stress and sleepless nights that followed eventually signaled it was time for a shift.

She rediscovered her lifelong love of design—something she always admired through HGTV and magazines—and began creating sanctuaries for both herself and her family. That exploration became the foundation for The Soul of Sanctuary, her design business centered on aesthetics as a form of healing.

Healing Through Intentional Spaces

As a daily meditator and certified yoga instructor, Stephanie connects deeply with the power of environment and energy. She believes our surroundings directly impact how we feel, and that intentional design can elevate wellbeing. Her philosophy is that every client deserves a home that nurtures, restores, and empowers them.

The Bootcamp & Canva 411 Experience

Stephanie shared how she discovered Amandork | Foster Decor Consulting through Facebook while living in Mérida, Mexico. E-design quickly became the perfect way for her to continue pursuing design while living abroad. She soon joined our Interior Design Bootcamp and Canva 411 course, both of which were pivotal in sharpening her vision and brand.

The Canva 411 for Interior Designers Mini Course is a self-paced, action-focused guide designed to help interior designers and e-designers master presentation skills using Canva. This course covers everything from creating stunning mood boards and concept designs to crafting pro-level floor plans and shopping lists, all with easy-to-follow videos, commentary, and a comprehensive workbook packed with powerful tips and shortcuts.

Through this process, she embraced her unique style:✨ “Elevated bohemian with a vintage glam twist”—a blend of Art Deco, Harlem Renaissance, and Hollywood Regency influences.

Stephanie noted that the Canva 411 course especially helped her “level up” her design presentations, making projects more realistic and engaging without needing more complex tools. Meanwhile, the Bootcamp pushed her to do the deeper soul-searching needed to clarify her ideal client and purpose.

The eDesign Bootcamp™ is the ultimate, all-in-one program for interior and eDesigners ready to launch or elevate their online business. With self-paced modules, video commentary, hands-on worksheets, and 1:1 coaching options, the Bootcamp delivers a customized roadmap no matter your experience level—newbie, veteran, or career-pivot entrepreneur.

Embracing Authenticity

One of the big themes of our conversation was authenticity in design. Too often, designers fall into the trap of copying what’s trending online, creating work that feels vague or generic. Stephanie emphasized how leaning into her bold, jewel-toned, and travel-infused aesthetic has helped her stand out and connect with the right clients—people who want something rich, inspiring, and full of life.

Her thesis project from the Bootcamp brought this philosophy to life. She presented her ideal client, “Janelle Johnson,” a successful woman entering a new chapter of her life, ready to invest in a home that affirms and reflects her journey. Stephanie’s detailed project not only showcased her design talent, but also her deep empathy for clients.

What’s Next for The Soul of Sanctuary

Currently based in Mérida, Mexico with her husband and two children, Stephanie is preparing for an exciting new chapter. With her children headed to school, she is balancing personal projects in Merida while planning a future move into a new, larger family home. Her vision is to create an intentional, joy-filled home that reflects her design philosophy.

Looking ahead, Stephanie continues to focus on helping clients embrace design not as a formula, but as a form of freedom and joy.

Final Thoughts

Stephanie’s story is a reminder that design is more than aesthetics—it’s about soul care. By boldly choosing authenticity, setting boundaries, and intentionally curating spaces, she helps clients reclaim their homes as sanctuaries that sustain them.

It was an absolute honor to feature Stephanie in this episode of Peer-to-Peer Podcast. Her passion, journey, and vibrant design style will no doubt inspire fellow designers and clients alike.

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