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Side Hustle to Success

The Story of CXB Designs

Article by Carly Mac Manus

Photography by Dylan LaMora, Abbey Garner, Sam Lennon, Cynthia Battaglia

Originally published in Pascack Valley City Lifestyle

It all started with a passion project. Westwood local Cynthia Battaglia, the vision behind CXB Design, recalls how her venture into event decor began as a casual favor for her sisters' weddings while she was still in college. "I had a very creative eye," she explains, "and they saw that potential in me as well as instant connections with their vendors."

Graduating in 2021 with a degree in interior design from High Point University, Battaglia balanced her burgeoning business with a full-time job as an interior designer at Plan Architecture in Washington Township. "It was a lot of hands on deck," she admits, reflecting on the early days of juggling work, school, and her newfound entrepreneurial venture.

Despite the initial challenges, CXB Design flourished through word of mouth. "People started reaching out—friends, friends of friends, and now recurring connections with multiple venues," Battaglia recalls. "It was so cool to see something evolve out of something so unexpected."

CXB Design has evolved from a side hustle into a central passion. "Neither of them feel like work," Battaglia remarks about her dual careers in interior design and event decor. "They're both a passion for me and that’s what I think is most important."

Battaglia emphasizes, "I want to make all of my [clients] happy," she explains. "It's about building trust and lasting relationships. ."

When asked about her creative process, Battaglia highlights the collaborative nature of her work. She listens attentively to clients' visions, translating them into cohesive detailed designs that capture the essence of their events. "I take their thoughts and visions, develop a full concept, and about a year or so later turn it into a reality," she says, underscoring her commitment to exceeding expectations.

Battaglia continues to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, particularly as a small business owner, and hasn't been without its hurdles. Battaglia admits that balancing work, personal life, and social life has been a demanding struggle. But with the support of a few helping hands, her mother and father, she acknowledges, “I couldn’t do it without them.” 

Battaglia envisions expanding CXB Design further as time goes on. Her dream includes owning a boutique storefront where clients can experience her designs firsthand, cementing her role in celebrating life's milestones.

From humble beginnings to aspirations of growth, Battaglia remains steadfast in her commitment to making each client's special day unforgettable.


 

Cynthia Battaglia - Creative Designer

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