Meet Lynae and Leann of GIXLI

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynae and Leann

Lynae and Leann, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Our journey with GIXLI began with four passionate founders who recognized a gap in the design industry. As working interior designers, Leann and I always relied on each other for feedback and business refinement. However, we noticed many designers, especially those working solo, were missing out on daily collaboration, essential feedback, and insights into sourcing reliable vendors.

Another challenge we faced in our own interior design business was working on a project out of state and struggling to find reliable local tradespeople and sources to help implement the design. That’s when it hit us—having a shared local database among designers would be immensely helpful. We envisioned a directory where we could share and rate vendors based on their performance, helping other designers determine if they’d be a good match for their projects. GIXLI was born from this need—a secure space where designers can connect, collaborate, and share knowledge. We envisioned a platform that offers more than just showcasing work. We wanted to create a directory of trusted vendors, both local and national, easily searchable and directly linked to suppliers’ websites, making sourcing efficient and accessible 24/7.

The final piece of the puzzle was addressing the overwhelming need to know everything about everything; designers have to be experts in so many areas! If you think about the fact that we can start a project as a new build home and we’re responsible for creating lighting plans as an example, spec’ing plumbing, etc. and then we move into furnishings, drapery, wallcoverings, etc. using materials that fit the client’s design and lifestyle. It’s a lot to know! That’s why we added ‘how-to’ technical instructions and product educational pieces, ensuring GIXLI could be a one-stop hub for interior designers to work their business. Everything from collaboration and sourcing to ongoing education.

Today, GIXLI is more than just a platform; it’s a thriving community where qualified, actively working designers can grow, learn, and support one another, just as Leann and I have done from the very beginning. With GIXLI, designers are better informed, more confident, and more efficient, ultimately enhancing their credibility and success.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Surprisingly, our journey as a startup with GIXLI has been relatively smooth once we had a clear concept in place. What began as a simple idea has, in just a year and a half, evolved into a thriving platform that is now growing alongside a passionate community of interior designers.
During the development period, our vision for GIXLI continually evolved, and we were fortunate to encounter what felt like constant synchronicities guiding us. At the heart of our journey is a set of core beliefs: that there is enough opportunity for everyone, that good people find each other, and that you get what you give. These principles have served as our compass, leading us to connect with many invaluable and talented individuals—including the perfect tech team. This team not only custom-developed our software but also became strong partners who share our vision and commitment.
GIXLI was born from real, firsthand experiences and genuine needs in the interior design industry. As a result, every decision we made during development felt like a natural extension of the work we were already passionate about. We officially launched the platform in early August 2024, and while there is still much work ahead, we are immensely grateful for the support and feedback from our early adopters. They have been instrumental in helping us refine the platform and navigate the inevitable bumps along the way.
We want to be clear that our road has not been without its challenges. Like any new venture, we’ve faced our share of obstacles. Balancing our existing interior design business while building GIXLI has been particularly demanding. Staying relevant and active in our design work is essential to ensuring that GIXLI truly meets the needs of our community. This balancing act has required us to lean heavily on our two amazing business partners, who have been crucial to maintaining our dual focus.
Overall, our journey is driven by passion, purpose, and a strong belief in the value that GIXLI brings to the interior design community. We are committed to continuing this journey, growing both the platform and our engagement in the industry we love. There is still much to achieve, but with the support of our community and partners, we are excited for the road ahead.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
GIXLI is the definitive source for Interior Design, serving as a dynamic hub where both professionals and enthusiasts find everything they need to thrive in the world of design. At its core, GIXLI is a secure platform where qualified interior designers collaborate, source materials, and continue their education. However, GIXLI extends beyond a mere resource for professionals—it is a vibrant destination for anyone with an interest in the interior design industry.
What sets GIXLI apart is our unwavering commitment to delivering the most relevant and insightful content to our audience. Our editorial team, consisting of industry-leading designers and experts, meticulously curates content from the top shelter magazines and trade publications, ensuring only the best makes it to our platform. This curated content is presented through the GIXLI Edit, where our editors add professional insights and often surprisingly witty commentary, providing a unique perspective that keeps our readers informed and inspired. This blend of expert analysis and engaging storytelling is a hallmark of GIXLI, catering to seasoned designers aiming to stay ahead of industry trends and enthusiasts passionate about design.
Our platform also serves as a valuable networking tool, enabling readers to connect with a network of interior designers, architects, and builders. Whether you are looking to hire a professional or collaborate on a project, GIXLI makes it easier than ever to bring your design visions to life.
We are incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and the breadth of resources we offer. With a focus on fostering creativity, facilitating knowledge sharing, and nurturing professional connections, GIXLI has become the go-to platform where creativity, knowledge, and connections converge.
What we want readers to know is that at GIXLI, we are constantly innovating to enhance our platform and expand our offerings. We are committed to providing a space where your design journey begins, grows, and flourishes. Whether you’re here to collaborate, learn, or find a trusted professional, GIXLI is where your design ambitions come to life.
Join the GIXLI community today and discover why we are the preferred choice for interior design professionals and enthusiasts alike. Visit our website, explore our curated content, and start your design journey with us. GIXLI is not just a platform—it’s a community where inspiration meets opportunity.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
We are fans of Abraham-Hicks teachings and listen daily to YouTube rampages which we incorporate into our personal and business lives. We are both subscribed to the MasterClass app, too, and glean insights from entrepreneurs, business moguls, and top experts’ stories. Creatively we get inspired by the SmartLess podcast, Frederic Magazine, and markets specific to the interior design trade.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gixli.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gixli.source
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560406410892

Image Credits
Personal Photo: Sophie J Photography
Interior Photos: Joshua Caldwell Photography