Carrie Carrollo (@spicycurray) is a Chicago-native writer, creative strategist, and content creator with a serious knack for interior DIYing (you may have seen her charming home projects on YouTube), just to name a few of her many talents. We stopped by her vibrant, eclectic Brooklyn apartment to chat with her—and her adorable pug, June—about life as a pug mom and to gather some interior design inspiration.
What’s your dog’s name, and what do you *actually* call them?
Her *official* name is June, but I call her something new almost daily. Usually, it's a version of Junie B., Bug, or Prune, but truthfully, it’s whatever feels right in the moment.
You’ve worn many hats in your career, spanning copy, strategy, social, editorial, commerce, content, and more. What have been some of your favorite projects to work on?
My favorite projects have been the unconventional or tangible ones, like being on set for photo shoots to accompany articles that I've written, naming paint colors (yes, this was actually a job that I had!), or writing the words on the packaging of a product. I love seeing things come to life and being involved in that process.
How would you describe your personal and interior design style?
My fashion and interior design taste is very similar. I gravitate towards colorful, eclectic, and design-forward pieces. I love simple items that have a hint of personality or something unique that elevates them, like a cool neckline on a sweater or chunky legs on a chair.
Where do you find your inspiration?
All over and usually unintentionally, like while I’m scrolling online or physically stumbling across new spaces. Lately though, I've been finding a lot of inspiration in the color palettes and patterns found in quilts and textiles.
What’s your typical thought process when designing an interior space?
Before physically starting a project, I spend a lot of time thinking about the layout, function, color palette, and what could change to make the room feel or look better. Then, once I have a good sense of what I want to do, I’ll spend more time perfecting the idea before executing it. It’s all a labor of love!
What are your top 3 interior design tips?
Take your time, don't underestimate the power of paint, and incorporate things that feel personal to you, like decor, artwork, hand-me-downs, and trinkets, which make the space feel more like a home.
Biggest design hack for small New York City apartments?
Storage is usually the biggest issue in small apartments, so I always look for furniture that doubles as storage or has a storage element to it. Also, don’t forget to take advantage of vertical space, typically through shelving!
Where is June’s favorite place to be in your apartment?
June's favorite place is anywhere the sun is or right next to me—she really likes to have eyes on me at all times, which is very endearing.
If you had to describe June in one word, what would it be?
Opinionated…she runs the house for sure.
And if June had to describe you in one word, what would it be?
Mother.
Does June have any silly quirks or secret talents?
June's best party tricks are that she knows all of her toys by name and will bring you the ones that you ask for. She also rings a bell to go outside or when she wants attention or a refill of her water or really anything, but I always know what she's asking for.
What’s something you never leave the house without on your dog walks?
Hopefully, my keys.
Do you typically listen to podcasts, music, or nothing as you walk?
My walks with June are usually my “me time” for the day, especially after work. I'll either call my mom or listen to music or the audiobook of whatever I'm reading at the moment.
What’s the biggest tip you would share with any new pet parents? Or something you wish you’d known before getting June?
Be patient. When I got June as a puppy, there were times when I never thought she'd grow out of certain habits or be comfortable being left alone, but she's turned out to be the perfect dog for me and my lifestyle. She's really the best girl, and I'm so grateful for her. I love her so much.
Your hottest take as a pet parent?
Dogs do belong in bed with you, even though somehow, June takes up the whole bed.
What’s your go-to Wild One product and why?
The Grooming Wipes! I keep them on hand all the time, and I use them to wipe June's paws after going out on walks. I just don't want the New York City streets and dirt on my furniture and in my bed with me, so they're perfect for that. They’re also great for a quick refresh between baths, and I love that they smell like eucalyptus.