Meet the Merriment Team

Owner & Principal Designer

Sarah Olsen

For over two decades, Sarah Olsen has created award-winning interiors that blend innovation, refinement, and intention. Her work spans residential and commercial spaces—each one thoughtfully tailored to reflect the people who inhabit them.

Sarah approaches design as a collaborative journey—partnering with clients from concept to completion. Whether crafting a home that supports daily life or a business built for impact, she blends precision with style, creativity, and a dynamic energy that makes the process deeply rewarding.

An accredited designer with a B.A. in Interior Design from the University of Minnesota, Sarah is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), committed to excellence and industry leadership.

Beyond the studio, Sarah finds inspiration hiking the Arizona landscape, prioritizing strength and wellness at the gym, traveling thoughtfully, enjoying a well‑chosen book or music, and hosting meaningful gatherings around the table with family and friends.

Senior Designer

Sam Wittich

Sam brings an impressive educational background to the Merriment team, holding three degrees in interior design from Century College as well as a degree in medical office support. She is a Green Accredited Professional and an Allied ASID member, reflecting her commitment to sustainable, thoughtful, and industry‑aligned design practices.

Before transitioning into interior design, Sam worked as an Automated Medical Records Specialist, a role that strengthened her attention to detail and organizational skills—qualities that now enhance her work with clients. She has been designing with Merriment since 2017 and continues to be a valued member of the studio.

Sam lives with her husband, their orange cat Woodrow, and their 120‑pound dog, Gus. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending time outdoors in the sunshine with her family.

Her favorite part of being an interior designer is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by improving the function, comfort, and overall experience of their homes.

Studio Coordinator

Jessica Sondreal

Jessica brings a unique blend of creativity and business insight to Merriment. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Psychology from St. Norbert College in Wisconsin, followed by a Diploma in Art Direction and Design from Miami Ad School. Since moving to Minnesota in 2006, Jessica has built a career in art direction, design, and marketing.

At Merriment, Jessica loves styling and accessorizing the showroom, connecting with clients, and collaborating with a team that values laughter and beauty. Her passion for design shines through in every detail.

Outside of work, Jessica enjoys traveling with her family, exploring new restaurants, cheering on her kids, attending Minnesota United games, and spending time with friends.

She’s inspired by all things design and lives by the sayings:“Choose to see the beauty around you. Find the beauty in others. Give grace.”

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Studio Administrator

Krista Richmond

Krista is an Indiana native whose path through Nebraska and Iowa eventually brought her to Minnesota. After 23 years in the insurance industry, she brings strong analytical skills, organization, and a steady, professional presence to the design studio.

In her role, Krista especially enjoys welcoming and assisting customers who visit the studio, managing the store’s inventory of décor and gifts, and carefully monitoring client orders to ensure every item arrives in perfect condition.

Outside of work, Krista enjoys time with family and friends, quiet movie nights, and traveling as she embraces life in the empty‑nest stage. Her interests include scrapbooking, women’s volleyball, time in the Wisconsin Northwoods, and returning to skiing after ACL reconstruction. Fun facts: She has visited 47 of the 50 U.S. states, spent 10 years in 4‑H, and remains a longtime fan of the Brittany breed.

Design Dog

Darla Rose

Darla Rose is our Design Dog and, without question, the most beloved member of the Merriment team.

She keeps us company in the studio and lifts spirits daily with her calm presence and sweet, gentle personality.

Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Darla was adopted from a shelter 12 years ago and has been making herself right at home ever since.

She takes her role seriously—greeting every client who walks through the door, supervising design meetings, and showing particular enthusiasm when clients bring their own dogs along.

When she’s not overseeing the studio, Darla enjoys chasing squirrels and bunnies and soaking up all the love she can get.

She’s kind, affectionate, and always happy to be part of the process—especially if it involves a cozy rug or a friendly visitor.

The Merriment Advantage

  • Design Expertise, Refined

    Our team of seasoned, degreed designers brings more than 30 years of combined expertise to every project, offering a level of refinement and artistry that elevates each space. As masters of their craft, they shape interiors that are as beautifully resolved as they are thoughtfully functional. Throughout the process, they cultivate a clear, collaborative dialogue—ensuring your vision is honored, your investment is respected, and your project progresses with precision, grace, and impeccable attention to detail.

  • Complete Design & Project Stewardship

    Merriment brings a sophisticated range of expertise to projects of every scale—residential, commercial, local, and out‑of‑state. Our team is experienced in guiding clients through full new‑builds, whole‑home renovations, multi‑floor transformations, and highly detailed single‑room designs. We also support focused needs such as paint consultations, finish selections, and furnishings-only projects. No matter the size or location, each engagement receives the same level of intention, artistry, and meticulous project stewardship, ensuring a beautifully executed result that reflects your vision with clarity and confidence.

  • Elevated Sourcing & Customization

    Merriment offers a level of access and customization that goes far beyond retail. Our designers source from thousands of trade‑only product lines—furnishings, textiles, lighting, and finishes not available to the general public—ensuring your home feels truly personal and thoughtfully curated. With extensive customization options and a deep library of exclusive resources, we work with you to shape a design that reflects your style with clarity, intention, and originality.

  • Our Network, Working For You

    Exceptional design is built on exceptional partnerships. We collaborate with a trusted network of skilled trades—drapery workrooms, electricians, painters, builders, and more—each vetted for craftsmanship, communication, and integrity. Our studio works seamlessly alongside these professionals, ensuring every detail is executed with the same care and standards we bring to our design work. Whether we partner with your existing subcontractors or connect you with our curated network, your project benefits from a team aligned in expertise, efficiency, and respect for your home.