Jon StojanIn a world where each space tells a unique story, Alexandra (Alexi) Cary, is the author of some of the most captivating narratives. Through her company, First Impressions, she creates environments that reflect her clients’ identities and dreams, crafting each detail with meticulous care.
Alexi’s story begins with her extraordinary academic achievements. Graduating high school at just 15 and completing university by 19, she was already a step ahead of her peers. Her childhood in Dubai, now a hub for real estate and exquisite interior designs, played a significant role in shaping her design abilities. She shares a beautiful awe-inspiring moment of her life, at the age of nine: an evening at Sheikh Mohammed’s opulent palace, an experience that left a lasting impression on her. The luxurious and intricate designs she saw there continue to inspire her work today. Even at home in Dubai, Alexi had limited access to furniture during these early years, leading her to create makeshift pieces from cardboard boxes and bed sheets. Her resourcefulness and creativity were evident.
Image source: First Impressions by Seth D Caplan
Her early career in television, where Alexi rose to the position of producer, truly shows her ability to excel in demanding environments. However, it was her move to Los Angeles even before the age of 21 that marked a turning point in her life and career direction.
Upon moving to LA, Alexi found herself in a unique position. For the first time, she had the opportunity to decorate her own space. This was more than just a new home; it was a blank canvas for her creative expression. Her creativity caught the eye of a developer, who saw the potential in her designs. This recognition led to the transformation of an entire building’s top floor into penthouses inspired by Alexi’s unique aesthetic. This experience ignited her passion for furniture design and interior decoration, paving the way for the founding of First Impressions.
Image source: First Impressions by Seth D Caplan
Initially, Alexi’s work focused on reupholstering and creating custom furniture. Inspired by her mother, a fashion design graduate from Parsons she developed a keen eye for fabric selection and its craftsmanship. Her early projects, often wedding gifts for her friends, evolved into more complex assignments. Clients began requesting her services for entire rooms, and eventually, entire homes.
Her designs are a reflection of her own journey and personality. She emphasizes, “Every project must bear my personal touch; I ensure that no detail is overlooked. My philosophy is that living in a space that truly represents oneself leads to a happier and more fuller life.” This personal investment in her work is evident in every project she undertakes.
This creative entrepreneur’s dedication to her clients goes beyond customer satisfaction. She insists on perfection in every aspect of her projects, stating, “If people are not 100% happy with every aspect of the house, we’re not done here.” This commitment extends to redoing any part of a project until the client is completely satisfied. Her dedication to her work has earned her a reputation for excellence and a loyal client base that trusts her vision implicitly. Her approach is holistic, ensuring that every space, no matter how small, is given the same level of attention and care.
Her move to Palm Springs marked another milestone in her journey. Eight years ago, she purchased her first home and immersed herself in the mid-century modern aesthetic, further honing her design skills. Her work in Palm Springs exemplifies her versatility and ability to adapt her maximalist style to different settings, or as she calls her work: a blend of opulence, comfort, and individuality. Even though her design style has evolved, her commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and personal remains unchanged. She continues to draw inspiration from her global experiences, blending them into her designs to create truly unique spaces.
Now, with First Impressions, Alexi Cary continues to transform spaces into personal sanctuaries, where every detail is a testament to her impeccable taste and unwavering commitment to perfection.