Minal Monga and her family first moved to Issaquah Highlands in 2005 and, after a two-year trip to Mauritius, relocated to Issaquah Highlands again in 2012.
Design is Minal’s first passion. She loves to look at spaces and see their endless possibilities. She graduated from the L.S. Raheja School of Architecture in Mumbai, India and continued her education at the Art Institute of Seattle, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior design. According to Minal, blending elements of her education helps her create unique spaces for her clients.
“A design is only successful if, at the end, my client feels like it is a haven for them,” Minal said.
In addition to design, Minal’s interest in photography started when she was a teenager. Her dad handed her his old Canon camera, and her hobby was born. She became more serious about it during her photo editing classes at AI Seattle, but her love for photography grew after having her first child. She enjoyed capturing the different stages of her daughter’s life and decided to share her gift with others.
Minal started her freelance photography business in 2012. At that time, she concentrated on photography because it gave her more flexibility. In 2017, she launched her interior design business. She loves every aspect of design and says being able to create again has brought her much happiness. Over the years, she not only photographed her own family and design work, but also documented and watched her client’s families grow.
“Issaquah Highlands is a wonderful place to work. I have only had amazing experiences with all my clients, building everlasting relationships,” Minal said.
What does Minal find most rewarding about her business?
“The joy when my clients see the finished product, and how their space is coming together the way they imagined it and much more,” Minal said. “That is priceless.”
What advice does she have for other Issaquah Highlands residents considering starting a business?
“Take it a small step at a time. There are so many other amazing people ready to help you succeed in this neighborhood that this is the best place to start.”
Minal D Monga Design & Photography: Website
Johnna Masterson is the owner of Inspired and Organized, co-leader of the Issaquah Highlands Business Networking Group, and a Central Park resident.
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Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed are solely those of the author. No goods or services were provided to the author or Highlands Council by the featured business in exchange for this article.
Highlands Council is proud to support local businesses and offers a number of unique opportunities for businesses to participate in and contribute to the Issaquah Highlands community. The Issaquah Highlands Business Networking Group meets virtually monthly; click here for more information. For Highlands Council sponsorship and advertising opportunities, please contact Christy Garrard.
