Experiences in Army help designer's business

By Lori O'Brien

Correspondent

SOUTH HADLEY Jill Caliri says her Army logistics training provided the experience to help her handle any situation that arises in her new business endeavor.

Caliri is an interior decorator and franchise owner of Interiors by Decorating Den, an international, custom home decorating service. She spoke at length during a recent interview with Reminder Publications about her years of service in the U.S. Army, and how that training has prepared her to tackle any project (large or small) that a client may request when creating a design for their home.

Caliri started the franchise last summer but said she had visions of owning her own business while she was still stationed in Baghdad. Her time as an Army officer has taken her to many countries including Korea, Germany and Iraq. She spent her final year on active duty serving in central Baghdad with the 1st Cavalry Division, earning a bronze star for her service in combat.

She reminisced about studying the architecture of Saddam Hussein's palaces while on duty and said that having that experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

"My travels brought me to 17 countries where I got to witness great design around the world," Caliri said. "Now I'm bringing that experience and attention to detail to my clients."

Caliri is an alumnus of the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a background in the retail industry and design. Following graduation in 1999, she was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army and finished her last tour in central Baghdad in 2004. Her role was to help rebuild the sewer, water and electricity infrastructure in the war torn region.

"After six years it was time for a change in my life," she said. "The Army was a great experience but I wanted to put down roots and get back to friends, family and the area I love."

Caliri's boyfriend, Captain Jonas Patruno, is currently on active duty in Iraq, commanding Detachment 1, 86th Medical Company, Air Ambulance, which is out of Barnes Municipal Airport in Westfield. When not on active duty, Patruno is an elementary guidance counselor in Belchertown.

They were commissioned into the Army together at UMass and as Caliri puts it, "have been each other's compass and support through the deployments to Iraq and civilian life. We look forward to his deployment being over and getting back to life together."

When Caliri isn't spending countless hours with her new business endeavor, she also serves in the Army Reserve teaching "Military Leadership" in the ROTC program at UMass and Western New England College in Springfield. She is also the Family Readiness Group leader for the 86th Medical Company while they are in Iraq. She said her experience in Iraq can bring good personal perspective to the families.

"I pass on information to the families about what is going on with the troops, help organize activities for the families, and try to help any families who may be experiencing difficulties while their loved one is deployed," Caliri said.

Caliri explained that her role as a problem solver ensures that the soldier isn't distracted from the mission overseas.

"The best part will be planning the big welcome home celebration when they finally come home later in the year," she added.

As a franchise owner, Caliri works with an experienced and established franchising partner, Interiors by Decorating Den, which specializes in full-service decorating, from design concept to product installation. The company's product assortment runs the gamut from area rugs, carpets, window treatments and lighting to flooring, furniture and home furnishings. Additionally, decorators have access to more than 120 of the top home furnishings manufacturers in the United States and Canada.

"Clients enjoy the convenience of previewing the latest in fabrics, window treatments, wall and floor coverings, furniture and accessories in the comfort and lighting of their own homes or offices," Caliri said.

An initial design consultation is complimentary.

"From brightening a small bathroom to a whole house makeover, we listen to a client's needs and ideas, and suggest solutions that solve decorating dilemmas, all within the parameters of a budget," she added.

From design through installation, Caliri executes all logistics for the client.

Interiors by Decorating Den has been featured in a variety of magazines including Good Housekeeping, Romantic Homes and Better Homes & Gardens. The company is also featured regularly on HGTV and has been featured on PBS' This Old House.

Caliri is also available for free speaking engagements on a variety of decorating tips to local organizations.

Caliri's best advice to anyone considering a room makeover is to have a reasonable budget for what needs to be accomplished.

"Your dream room can come true," she said.

For more information, contact Caliri at (413) 315-3322 or via e-mail at jcaliri@decoratingden.com. or through her website, www.decdens.com/jcaliri.