Storytelling, Design, and a Career Built on Curiosity and Connection

Stacy Shoemaker Rauen reflects on a career shaped by her early love of journalism and the discovery that “I fell in love with storytelling.” She describes finding her place in hospitality design, a world that “felt like home to me,”where creativity, people, and purpose intersect. Stacy shares that what drew her in and kept her engaged for more than two decades was the vibrancy and generosity of the design community, noting that “the design community is like no other.” Her leadership has evolved through listening, learning, and allowing curiosity to guide new projects, from editorial work to industry events.

Connection remains central to her work. Stacy explains that “I love connecting people,” whether through the pages of a magazine, conferences, or conversations that spark collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and showing up with openness, especially when shining a light on the stories of others. Her role as editor, curator, and storyteller reinforces her belief that “you have to stay curious” to grow with the industry and continue serving it meaningfully.

‍Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “I fell in love with storytelling.”
• “It felt like home to me.”
• “The design community is like no other.”
• “I love connecting people.”
• “You have to stay curious.”

‍Closing Reflection

Stacy’s journey shows how curiosity, storytelling, and genuine connection can shape an entire industry. Her story encourages staying open, elevating others, and leading with creativity and heart.