By Oana Molodoi
When I think back to 2020, it still feels surreal that OM Drapes Design was born in the middle of a global pandemic. While the world slowed down, I found myself pulled toward a new purpose: designing custom draperies and window treatments that could transform how people experienced their homes.
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Beginnings in Uncertain Times
Like many new beginnings, ours was sparked by a need. We had just moved into my first home in Orange County and struggled to find professionals who could guide me in selecting window treatments. Windows were too often an afterthought, when I believed they should be a centerpiece.
So I decided to start learning. I had no prior experience in this industry, but what I lacked in background I made up for in curiosity and perseverance. Every project, every sample, every late-night research session became part of my foundation.
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The Spark of Inspiration
OM Drapes Design might not even exist today without the encouragement of someone very dear to me — my cousin, Diana Papuc, owner of Sway Curtains in Sydney, Australia.
Diana was not only an inspiration but also my guide. She showed me what was possible, shared her knowledge generously, and was the one who pushed me to take the leap into this business.
I’ll never forget her words: “If I know anyone who would pick up a new business and run with it, it’s you.”
Her belief planted the seed that has grown into everything OM Drapes Design is today.
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Guided by Mentors & Teachers
I didn’t walk this journey alone. Along the way, I was fortunate to be supported and guided by extraordinary mentors, each of whom played a unique role in shaping OM Drapes Design:
• LuAnn Nigara and her husband, Vince Nigara — owners of Exciting Windows! and LuAnn the host of the “A Well-Designed Business” podcast. They taught me the business side of design and gave me the confidence to take bold steps.
• Steve Bursten — the late founder of Exciting Windows! and Decorating Den Interiors, who believed in me from the very beginning and generously shared his knowledge and encouragement.
• Deb Barrett — Principal at Window Dressings, a true authority on textiles and draperies, who helped me understand the nuances that make a project truly special.
Their wisdom, vision, and generosity shaped both the designer and the entrepreneur I am today.
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From Vision Board to Reality
In those early days, I dreamed big. On my vision board, I pinned an image of a beautiful showroom — a space where clients and designers could gather, touch fabrics, and see ideas come to life.
That vision felt so far away in 2020, yet it guided me through long nights of learning and building.
Today, standing in our showroom at the Laguna Design Center, I see that dream turned into reality. The vision board that once lived on my wall is now part of my life — a daily reminder of how powerful it is to set intentions and stay persistent.
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Expanding Through Collaboration
As the business grew, so did my relationships. Collaborating with interior designers became a cornerstone of my work. Together, we’ve created spaces where window treatments don’t just serve a purpose but elevate the entire aesthetic.
Going back to school at the Interior Design Institute gave me the language and perspective to collaborate at a deeper level, making OM Drapes Design not just a drapery company, but a true partner in design.
One of our proudest milestones has been opening a space in the Laguna Design Center. Having a showroom presence allows clients and designers to touch, see, and experience our fabrics and systems firsthand. It’s a dream I couldn’t have imagined back in 2020.
Now, Oana Molodoi is Southern California’s most versatile Window Fashions Expert, known for her extraordinary attention to detail, project management skills and unparalleled customer service to high end clients and their designers.
As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, Oana understands the importance of creating spaces that enhance how we live. She built OM Drapes Design with a foundation of genuine care—for her clients, community, and team—and this commitment shows in every beautiful project and delighted client.
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With Gratitude
Today, OM Drapes Design partners with high-end homeowners and extraordinary designers throughout Southern California. From oceanfront estates to hillside retreats, each project is unique, but all share a common goal: to make windows a true part of the home’s story.
As we celebrate our 5-year anniversary, I feel immense gratitude.
To our clients — thank you for trusting us with your homes.
To our collaborators — thank you for your creativity and partnership.
To my mentors and teachers — thank you for lighting the path when it was still uncertain.
To Diana — thank you for sparking the idea that has grown into this journey.
And to my incredible team and partners — thank you for bringing excellence, precision, and care to every project. None of this would be possible without you.
Five years is just the beginning. With a foundation of craftsmanship, collaboration, and community, the best is yet to come.
With gratitude,
Oana Molodoi
Founder, OM Drapes Design
