Thoughtfully and artfully created to illustrate the multifaceted lives of our clients, Creative Tonic is a kaleidoscope of textures, tones, and prints. Our award-winning work has been recognized by renowned editorial teams including House Beautiful, Elle Décor, Luxe Interiors + Design, and PaperCity.
Courtnay Tartt Elias
MEET COURTNAY
FIG 1. Mr. Creative Tonic
FIG 2. Broadwick London
FIG 3. The Grande Damme
FIG 4. The Grande Dame
“Our world is a vibrant place, full of wild dreamlands— and, for as long as I can remember, I’ve felt compelled to surround myself with this energy.”
Our Approach
Serving clients nationwide, Creative Tonic is a full-service personalized interior design firm based in Houston, Texas. From architectural and construction consulting to full-home renovation and comprehensive design installation, Courtnay Elias Tartt and her talented team give voice to their clients’ vibrant lives through design.
With great artistic integrity and always grace under pressure, your home, your story, is brilliantly brought to life by Creative Tonic.
With great artistic integrity and always grace under pressure, your home, your story, is brilliantly brought to life by Creative Tonic.
THE TEAM
Trisha Thornton Allen
Lead Interior Designer
Since joining Creative Tonic in 2017, Trisha has become an invaluable asset to the team, bringing her expertise in modern design technology, a love for color, and a deep passion for design. Trisha’s detail-oriented approach and positive outlook have fostered cherished relationships with our wonderful clients and trusted vendors. Beyond the design world, Trisha enjoys indulging in quality time with her loving family.
Liliana Dares
Interior Designer
With a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a minor in Fashion Merchandising from Texas State University, Liliana completed her Kitchen and Bath Design certification at Houston Community College. Her devotion to design is remarkable, effortlessly incorporating her fashion expertise into the design process. Liliana intertwines colors, patterns, and textures to create captivating interiors. When she's not designing, you’ll find Liliana traveling with her husband and enjoying the beach or mountains.
Caroline Coulson
Procurement and Design Assistant
From growing up in Sugarland to attending Texas State University, Caroline embodies Southern charm. After graduating, Caroline joined Upper Kirby Consignment, where she developed a love for high-end designer couture and a knack for building strong client relationships. With three years of design experience, Caroline’s versatile skills, “will do anything” attitude and sense of humor make her an invaluable asset to the Creative Tonic Team. She excels in client relations, vendor coordination, project management, and procurement, ensuring smooth operations, an organized office, and a positive environment. Beyond design, Caroline loves people, her kitty, and making others laugh.
Elaine Ellis
Director of Operations
For over a decade, Elaine Ellis has been an integral part of Creative Tonic, holding various administrative positions and now serving as our Business and Operations Manager. Her expertise as a professional organizer has been a tremendous asset, ensuring our office runs smoothly and efficiently. A proud Galveston native and University of Texas graduate with a psychology degree, Elaine brings organization and insight to our team. Outside the office, she’s a world-class cook and baker who loves discovering new recipes and exploring different travel destinations.
Leslie Alexander
Accountant
With over 20 years of experience and a Top Ten CPA Award recipient, Leslie has helped Creative Tonic with the accounting side of the business since 2021. Beyond accounting, Leslie enjoys cheering for her son and daughter at their lacrosse games, playing pickleball, and traveling.
Mary Ytterberg
Design Assistant
Mary transitioned to Creative Tonic in April 2024 after a successful decade as a corporate attorney. Embracing her long-standing passion for interior design, Mary brings a keen eye for detail to our creative team. Mary thrives under the pressure of large projects and tight deadlines while finding joy in discovering the perfect pattern combinations and engaging with our trusted vendors. Outside of work, she cherishes time spent with her husband and their two delightful daughters, embracing every moment of family life.
