Welcome to Meet the Owner! Shop Local Raleigh is committed to telling the story of Wake County’s locally-owned, independent businesses. We take pride in the character these businesses bring to our community and local economy. When shopping at a locally-owned business, you are more than likely interacting with the owner! We started this blog series to help you get to know the local business owners in our community.
This time we caught up with Carole Marcotte, owner of Form & Function.  Form and Function is a full-service interior design studio and home decor store in Five Points. Carole believes the design process should be fun and she is doing just that with her business. Here is what Carole had to say about starting her business, favorite local businesses to support and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs!
Meet Carole!
What motivated/inspired you to open a business?
I had an interior design business focused on reuse of client’s decor, so I wanted a store that would also reflect that. Form & Function has vintage (the ultimate reuse and upcycling!) along with new decor elements that are made from upcycled material and/or Made-In-America. The messaging is subtle but we stick to our mission of continuing to find products that fit into this mold.
Most clients have enough stuff, so I wanted to be able to conscientiously reuse as much as possible in an attractive way. With a fresh set of eyes, stuff can look good! As for the store, I knew that I wanted to do something different than what was already being offered in Raleigh.
What makes owning a business in Wake County special?
The diversity of our population and the interesting folks from all over that landed here. It is easy to make a connection when talking to folks who come into the store!
How long have you lived in the Triangle?
30 years – yikes! Can hardly believe that. We moved here as a young couple, raised three children, and have always been active members in the community. Raleigh is home. Originally I am from Windsor, Ontario Canada. Very cold!
What are you passionate about outside of your business?
The arts mainly! I have been involved with local theaters, was Vice-Chair of the Arts Commission and planned a large-scale public art project. Generally, I love and support all the arts groups in town. I follow politics; the good, the bad and the ugly. No matter what is happening locally or nationally, there is always something to talk about, and I love a good, polite political conversation. I also enjoy visiting Asheville. It has a great setting in the mountains for hiking and a great restaurant scene that is always evolving!
What are some of your favorite local businesses to support (besides yours)?
My neighbor below me, For Your Convenience has great decor items, vintage jewelry and you can even pick up a homemade casserole for those busy evenings. Hunt & Gather is where I started with a booth, the vendors are consistent and I usually can’t walk out empty-handed! The same is true with Cheshire Cat Gallery, a myriad of choices and great vendors. Father & Son has all things mid-century and it’s pleasurable digging through their vast collection. So many to talk about! I produced the map, Design District Raleigh, that spotlights 56 home decor and antique businesses along with restaurants. It is a shop local map with some amazing new businesses. Every year it grows which is a true sign of what is happening in this town.
What advice would you give to a new business owner?
Formulate a business plan with a strong mission statement. If possible, have a two-pronged approach for income, mine is retail combined with interior design. This allows for more opportunities. Don’t overlook marketing tools. Social media is generally free; exploit it! Also, look for creative ways to market yourself with a carefully crafted paid advertising campaign.
For more information about Form & Function and the interior design services provided, visit their website!
