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About Us
The Beetling Story. . .
Beetling Design, created by Kristy Ilic in 2006, is the evolution of an artistic impulse to redecorate her kids' rooms into something fun and whimsical. Not satisfied with simply painting the space or applying one-dimensional cutouts, Kristy wanted things to literally pop out from her kids' bedroom walls, transforming the room into a spellbinding adventure. Having no luck finding anything at retail outlets, Kristy embarked on the laborious task of designing and building Paper Maché caricatures that would attach to the walls. After dealing with several gallons of glue and countless newspaper clippings, Kristy could not help but think there must be a better way, and, if there was - what a business concept it could be.

Following extensive research, she discovered a fascinating, foam-based material used in the film industry for set designs, and instantly knew she was onto something special. With this cutting edge material Kristy could capture an untapped market -- creating 3D art that was eye-catching, easy to assemble and lightweight, while adding instant flair to any room.

Beetling -- the innovative, non-toxic, Designer Blended Foam-based, 3D art is available online and coming to a store near you.

Where did the name "Beetling" come from?

Kristy wanted to find the perfect name for her innovative company and she trawled the bookshelves looking for inspiration. Scanning the dictionary, she stumbled upon the perfect description of her product.

BEETLING adjective, verb,
-adjective
1. projecting; overhanging:
-verb (used without object)
2. to project; protrude; jut out; overhang

Beetling was also mentioned by Charles Dickens in the classic holiday favorite A Christmas Carol, known throughout the world to millions of children, making the word the perfect combination for her creative product.
Kristy Ilic
FOUNDER AND CEO
Kristy Ilic grew up in 1970's suburban Vancouver with dreams of traveling the world, being independent, and owning her own successful business.

Kristy studied Business and Economics at Simon Fraser University during the school year, while enrolling in summer classes at Emily Carr. In 1988, she applied and accepted a spot to study art and design at the prestigious JAK Berufsfachschule in Hamburg, Germany. Upon returning home to Vancouver, she accepted a position with a brokerage firm, which led to a successful 10-year career in the investment and finance industry.

In 2006, she used her skills as an investment advisor (where she spent countless hours analyzing and funding startup and junior growth companies) coupled with her design know-how to launch Beetling Design Corporation.

For Kristy, Beetling Design allowed the perfect combination of her two passions - art and business. Involved in every aspect of the company, she is thrilled at the recent successes of Beetling, and looks forward to its continued growth and expansion in the coming years.

Kristy lives and works in the suburbs of Vancouver, and is happily married with three children who inspire her everyday.
Linda Hughes
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Linda Hughes brings years of financial management expertise to Beetling. The former criminology student has parlayed her attention to detail into a successful business and management career. From her first job in the competitive spa manufacturing industry to consulting with L'Oreal Canada, Linda is a proven talent in the demanding retail and manufacturing industry.

Behind every successful career woman is a loving and supporting family. Linda's husband, son and her volunteer work always keep her hopping... and walking, having recently participated in her fifth Weekend to End Breast Cancer 60km walk.

Linda's decision to join Beetling can be traced back to Centennial High School, in Coquitlam, BC, where she and Kristy were fast friends. Since then, Linda has worked with Kristy on various projects, so it only seemed right to join her in bringing this amazing new décor to the market as Beetling's Chief Operating Officer.

Linda is thrilled to be a part of Beetling, and is wholeheartedly committed to the future success of the company.