Carole spent more than 15 years in the pharmaceutical industry with both Johnson & Johnson and Searle Laboratories where she had experience in Research and Development, Sales, Professional Education and Product Management. Her education includes The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management, Northwestern University and Temple University.

She founded the Stern Studio, a marketing consulting company 22 years ago and has worked for companies in many different fields including Pharmaceutical, Trucking, Private Coaching, Gift Baskets, Florists, Restaurants and many others.

She has lived with her husband Harvey for 25 years in their home in northern Illinois, where she continues to write. She also enjoys painting and gardening.

Her affiliations include:

President - The Home & Garden Club of Libertyville, Mundelein
The Lakes Region Watercolor Guild
Lake County Art League

As both a mother and entrepreneur my thought about decorating and life include the fact that a home can be truly lived in and still be lovely. I believe cozy relaxed settings where adults and children can be at home is most important. For me the secret to living well is to surround myself with beautiful things, many inspired by my flea market finds. I believe in giving a new lease on life to time-worn objects, allowing you to work with what you already have. Equally important to me is to serve my family the best healthy food that I can possibly create. This is the philosophy behind Enjoying Frugal Luxuries, which I hope everyone will enjoy.