A Legacy of Warmth and Style
For Sabine Guillaume Hayes, the founder of Georgette Marise Interiors, interior design is more than just creating beautiful spaces—it’s about crafting environments that tell a story, reflect personal identity, and enhance daily life. As a Haitian-Cuban American designer, Sabine draws inspiration from her rich cultural heritage and the strong women who raised her. With nearly a decade of experience transforming homes, she specializes in multifunctional, stylish, and inviting interiors that resonate with the people who live in them.
“My late mother, Marise, and grandmother, Georgette, showed me how a home could be warm, inviting, and full of life. That’s where my passion for interior design started,” Sabine shares. “I want my clients to feel that same sense of belonging in their own spaces.”
From Inspiration to Entrepreneurship
Sabine’s journey into the world of design began with a deep appreciation for how spaces can influence emotions and interactions. Whether it was her grandmother’s one-bedroom Manhattan apartment, filled with music and family, or her mother’s welcoming home outside of Boston, she saw firsthand how a thoughtfully designed space could bring people together.
In 2015, Sabine took the leap into entrepreneurship, launching Georgette Marise Interiors. “Stepping into entrepreneurship was both thrilling and intimidating,” she admits. “The unknown was the biggest challenge. As a creative, you have to balance your artistic vision with the logistics of running a business.” Over the years, she has learned to navigate these challenges by building strong client relationships, refining her business processes, and trusting in her unique approach to design.
A Design Aesthetic Rooted in Cultural Storytelling
Sabine’s design philosophy is a fusion of influences—blending the bold sophistication of Art Deco and Art Nouveau with the organic elegance of tropical and boho aesthetics. “Being of Caribbean heritage, I’m drawn to rich textures, deep woods, vibrant colors, and curvilinear lines,” she explains. “I also love metropolitan living, so I mix in modern, urban elements to create a unique balance.”
This ability to merge multiple design styles is what sets Sabine apart. She approaches each project as a collaboration, ensuring that her clients’ personalities shine through in their spaces. “A home should be a reflection of its owner, not just a copy of a Pinterest board. My job is to help clients discover what truly resonates with them.”
Creating Personalized Spaces That Work
Functionality is at the core of Sabine’s design process. Many of her clients are female homeowners and entrepreneurs who need their spaces to be both inspiring and practical. Whether designing a home office that doubles as a creative studio or a dining room ready for family gatherings, Sabine ensures that each space is tailored to her client’s lifestyle.
“I love helping women feel confident in their homes,” she says. “Many struggle with putting a space together, and that lack of confidence can make them hesitant to invite people over. I want my clients to feel proud of their homes, to see their spaces as an extension of who they are.”
Balancing Color, Texture, and Timelessness
One of the biggest misconceptions Sabine addresses is the fear of using color and texture. “Most people love color, but they’re afraid of using it incorrectly,” she explains. “I always advise starting small—introducing color through accessories, artwork, or textiles rather than committing to an entire bold-colored sofa.”
Her approach to design is similar to styling an outfit. “Not everything can be a statement piece. A home needs a focal point, just like an outfit needs balance. If the walls are making a bold statement, the surrounding elements should complement them, not compete.”
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Inspired
Every designer encounters creative blocks, and for Sabine, the best way to overcome them is by stepping away. “Creativity is an endless process, but sometimes, you need to pause and recharge,” she says. “I find inspiration in nature, travel, and simply observing the world around me. Whether it’s the colors in a sunrise or the textures in a cityscape, inspiration is everywhere.”
Her morning routine is also key to maintaining her creative flow. “Stillness, prayer, and gratitude keep me grounded,” she shares. “Starting the day with intention helps me approach my work with fresh eyes and a clear mind.”
Expanding the Georgette Marise Brand
Celebrating ten years in business, Sabine continues to push the boundaries of design. She recently launched the Belfong Candle Collection, a luxury candle line inspired by her love for scent and ambiance. “Design isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you feel,” she says. “Scent plays a huge role in setting the mood of a space, and I wanted to create something that enhances that experience.”
Her future plans include expanding the candle collection, launching new home lifestyle products, and growing her Designed to Inspire community—a space for women entrepreneurs to connect and learn about intentional design.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, Sabine’s answer is clear: “I want to be known for helping people shine through their spaces. My mother and grandmother had a gift for bringing out the best in others, and I hope to continue that through my work. If my designs make someone feel more confident, more comfortable, and more at home, then I’ve done my job.”
Where to Find Sabine Hayes
For those looking to experience Sabine’s design expertise, shop her Belfong Candle Collection, or book her for a project, visit her website: GeorgetteMarise.com. Follow her journey on social media:
Instagram: @GeorgetteMarise
TikTok: @GeorgetteMarise
Facebook: @GeorgetteMarise
Pinterest: @GeorgetteMarise
Substack: @GeorgetteMarise
Sabine Hayes is proving that interior design is more than aesthetics—it’s about creating environments that inspire, uplift, and transform the way we live. With a decade of experience and a passion for storytelling through design, she continues to make her mark in the industry, one beautifully crafted space at a time.
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