If you enjoy binge-watching new series on Netflix, you might have stumbled upon the popular home renovation show "Dream Home Makeover." Since its debut in 2020, this series has propelled married couple Syd and Shea McGee into the spotlight, making them household names. Surprisingly, however, the couple does not watch home renovation shows themselves. "We’re like, 'We know what they did there,'" Shea shared with Oprah Daily. "Before, I could turn off my design brain. Now I can’t. It took away the magic." Thankfully, they don't need to watch anything else as their own series has become a hit on Netflix.
Building their empire was not an easy journey. "Our journey has been messy, and we’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way," Syd mentioned on their YouTube channel. Despite the challenges they have faced, the couple seems to be thriving and is still just beginning their adventure in the world of home design and renovation.
Curious to learn more about this dynamic duo? Here are some fascinating facts and insights into the lives of Syd and Shea McGee, the stars of "Dream Home Makeover."
How They Met: A Family Connection
Shea's brother played a pivotal role in introducing her to Syd McGee. While Shea was a college student at Brigham Young University in 2006, her brother needed assistance moving into his apartment. What she thought would be a simple trip turned into a life-changing weekend.
Before Shea left Texas, her brother warned her about his roommate, saying, "My buddy Syd will be there and you're going to like him, but don't, because he's my friend." It became apparent that he was right when Shea arrived and felt an instant connection. Syd also felt a spark, noting, "I could see her CD visor, kind of tell she had good taste in music." They quickly exchanged phone numbers and went on their first date the following day, leading to their marriage in 2008.
Education and Career Choices in Design
Despite being recognized as leading figures in interior design, neither Syd nor Shea holds a formal degree in the field. Shea had always dreamed of being a designer but was hesitant about her abilities, admitting, "I can't draw!" Instead of pursuing design in college, she studied communications, which she later realized was not her passion.
After graduating from Brigham Young University, Shea found herself drawn back to design. With encouragement from Syd, she enrolled in some introductory courses at a local community college to explore her passion. Shea has expressed gratitude for her education in communications, stating that it helped her learn how to market herself and grow their business.
Launching Studio McGee
The journey to launching their interior design business, Studio McGee, began when Syd decided to quit his tech job in 2013. With a newborn baby and little direction, the couple faced significant pressure to succeed. Syd's decision to support Shea's side hustle in design became a turning point.
Realizing that they were in it together, the couple officially launched Studio McGee in 2014. Their hard work initially came with struggles, as they made sacrifices, such as selling things to make ends meet. Eventually, they made the tough decision to leave California and move back to Utah, where they could focus on growing their business.
The Financial Struggles and Triumphs
In the early days of Studio McGee, the couple faced nearly financial ruin. "We were selling things to make ends meet," Shea said. They cut back on all non-essential expenses, from cable to gym memberships, but it still wasn't enough. After a year of struggle, they relocated to Utah and rented a small office space to work on their business.
Despite the hardships, their perseverance paid off. Today, they have built a successful design company worth millions, with estimates suggesting their net worth is around $5 million. Their story serves as an inspiration for those looking to chase their dreams, highlighting that hard work and dedication can lead to significant achievements.
Family Life and Growing Their Business
Alongside their growing business, Syd and Shea are proud parents of three daughters. Wren and Ivy McGee have appeared on "Dream Home Makeover," showing the family's close-knit bond. In July 2021, they welcomed their third daughter, Margot, whose name reflects Shea's love for nature.
The couple emphasizes the importance of family in their lives, integrating their children into their work. They have created a family-oriented environment that intertwines personal and professional aspects, which is evident in their show.
Distinct Roles at Studio McGee
In their business, Syd and Shea have carved out distinct roles that complement each other. Many people mistakenly think that Syd designs, but he actually serves as the CEO, handling budgets and spreadsheets. Shea is the creative force behind the designs, focusing on all things artistic and aesthetic.
The couple has found that maintaining these separate roles works best for their partnership. They respect each other's expertise, allowing them to thrive in their respective areas while still collaborating on projects.
Inspiration from the Past
While Shea draws inspiration from various sources, she notably avoids design ideas from the 1980s. "I think the '80s were the tackiest!" she admitted. Instead, she finds inspiration in classic films, particularly those by Nancy Meyers, which feature beautiful and timeless architecture.
Shea believes in mixing different styles to create cohesive and inviting spaces. Her approach emphasizes balance in design, ensuring that elements from various eras and styles work harmoniously together.
Building a Social Media Presence
Social media has played a significant role in the McGee's business success. When Shea started marketing herself in 2010, she was one of the few interior designers utilizing platforms like Instagram. By sharing photos of their home and offering design tips, they quickly built a following.
Today, with over 3 million followers on Instagram, the McGees leverage their online presence to attract clients and expand their reach beyond Utah. Their success showcases the power of social media in modern business strategies.
Financial Success and Future Plans
The McGees' hard work has led to a thriving business, and their financial success continues to grow. Their Netflix series and product line at Target have contributed significantly to their net worth, which is estimated to be around $5 million. As they continue to evolve, their story serves as a testament to the rewards of perseverance and dedication.
As they look ahead, Syd and Shea are already planning their next book, aiming to share more of their journey with readers. Their commitment to making life beautiful, both in design and personal life, remains at the forefront of their endeavors.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Names | Syd McGee, Shea McGee |
| Show Title | Dream Home Makeover |
| Debut Year | 2020 |
| Marriage Year | 2008 |
| Number of Children | 3 |
| Business Name | Studio McGee |
| Net Worth | Approximately $5 million |
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