Exploring Life & Business with Tarykka (TJ) Saunders of Empty Table Interiors, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tarykka (TJ) Saunders.

Hi Tarykka (TJ) , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had a deep love for spaces and the way they tell stories. My grandmothers filled their homes with pieces that carried history—China cabinets, glassware, textiles—so I grew up knowing design was more than just décor, it was memory and meaning. This early influence shaped my path.

While building a career in federal contracting, I also pursued real estate and staging, helping properties stand out and sell. Over time, I saw an opportunity to merge that structured background with my creative side, and Empty Table Interiors was born.

Today, my work combines the precision of my federal experience with the creativity of staging and real estate. Empty Table Interiors styles short-term and mid-term rentals, boutique hotels, and micro-resorts with a guest-first focus—creating intentional, story-rich spaces that not only photograph beautifully but also increase bookings, reviews, and profitability.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It isn’t always a smooth road. Transitioning from a long federal career into entrepreneurship presents its own challenges. I wear every hat—marketing, operations, client relations—while also building a brand from the ground up.

There are moments of doubt, especially when balancing the financial realities of running a business with my creative vision for Empty Table Interiors. I also had to navigate the shift from the structure of government contracting into the unpredictability of the hospitality industry.

These challenges encourage me to grow. Every setback teaches me resilience, sharpens my processes, and gives me clarity about the kind of business I’m building—one that is intentional, sustainable, and impactful for the clients I serve.

We’ve been impressed with Empty Table Interiors, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Empty Table Interiors is a styling company that elevates short-term and mid-term rentals, boutique hotels, and micro-resorts through intentional, guest-focused design. We specialize in creating spaces that not only look beautiful in photos but also feel memorable and welcoming for every guest who walks through the door.

What sets us apart is our balance of creativity and strategy. We don’t just decorate; we style with purpose—considering the guest journey, the emotions a space evokes, and how those details contribute to higher bookings, stronger reviews, and repeat stays. With my background in federal contracting, real estate, and staging, I bring both structure and artistry to every project, ensuring clients have a clear process and outstanding results.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of our promise: Style refined, with your guest in mind™. It’s more than a slogan—it’s the heartbeat of what we do. From full-service property styling to seasonal refreshes and photo-ready preparation, our goal is to help property owners maximize profitability while delivering unforgettable guest experiences.

What I want readers to know is this: your space has the power to tell a story, and Empty Table Interiors is here to help you tell it well.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something surprising is that I can lose hours happily wandering through antique stores, estate sales, or small-town markets hunting for hidden treasures. I love the thrill of finding pieces with history and character—it feels like a treasure hunt every time. That passion began with my grandmothers’ homes and still inspires me. Whenever it makes sense, I love incorporating those vintage and antique finds into the spaces I style. It’s my way of adding a touch of story and soul to every project.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.emptytableinteriors.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emptytableinteriors/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Empty-Table-Interiors/61575372860894/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EmptyTableInteriors