Fostering a Culture of Happiness: How We Infuse Joy into the Workplace
At Glassical Designs, we’ve built more than just a company — we’ve created a culture that celebrates happiness in the workplace. We believe that to design exceptional corporate awards that honor the success of others, we must first be fostering a culture of happiness and fulfillment within our own team. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve learned that when employees feel valued, inspired, and empowered, it shows in everything we create.
But what does it take to build a culture of happiness that leads to long-term success and innovation? Here’s how Glassical Designs infuses joy into every corner of our workplace and why it makes a difference.
Building a Foundation of Positivity
Fostering happiness starts by cultivating a positive work environment. Across both of our locations — Colorado Springs, CO, and Panama City Beach, FL — we emphasize open communication and respect at all levels. Whether it’s a casual conversation or a team meeting, we encourage our employees to share ideas, discuss challenges, and provide feedback. This openness not only strengthens collaboration but also fosters trust, ensuring that everyone feels heard and appreciated.
Creating a positive work culture also means recognizing that happiness is a group effort. It’s not about grand gestures, but about the daily interactions that create a supportive environment. Simple acknowledgments of a job well done or celebrating individual and team successes go a long way in creating an uplifting atmosphere.
Recognizing Achievements Within the Team
Just as we help our clients celebrate their teams with custom-designed awards, we make it a priority to recognize and honor our own employees. Recognition isn’t reserved for special occasions—it’s woven into our everyday culture. Whether it’s celebrating work anniversaries, acknowledging individual contributions, or simply offering a heartfelt thank-you, we believe in the power of appreciation.
This culture of recognition starts with our founders, Nora and Rick LaMar, who have always placed a high value on acknowledging hard work and dedication. Their belief in the importance of recognition has shaped the entire company’s approach to how we support and uplift our team. From the top down, we ensure that every team member feels seen, valued, and appreciated for their contributions.
Bernie, our general manager, plays a pivotal role in maintaining this culture, ensuring that recognition remains a key part of our day-to-day operations. His leadership helps keep projects running smoothly while also nurturing the positive, supportive environment we’re known for.
Encouraging Creativity and Innovation
Happiness at work isn’t just about recognition — it’s about giving employees the freedom to innovate. We know that creativity is key to staying at the forefront of the corporate recognition industry, so we provide space for our team to explore new ideas and push boundaries.
Ray, one of our production team members, exemplifies this creative freedom. He designed the SkyFire Award, an acrylic piece that captures the beauty of modern recognition with its bold, color-fused accents. By encouraging Ray and others to contribute fresh, creative ideas, we’re able to offer our clients awards that are not only beautifully crafted but also full of personality and originality.
Incorporating innovation into everyday tasks doesn’t just lead to groundbreaking designs — it energizes the team. People feel more connected to their work when they’re encouraged to bring their own ideas to the table.
Flexibility and Balance: Key to Happiness
Work-life balance is at the heart of fostering a culture of happiness. At Glassical Designs, we understand that flexibility can greatly impact employee well-being. That’s why we focus on creating an environment where balance is a priority. Whether it’s adjusting schedules to fit personal commitments or offering remote work options, we give our employees the flexibility they need to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
Nora LaMar, our founder, is a champion of balance. As both a mother and a business leader, she has cultivated a culture where employees are encouraged to prioritize what’s important in their lives outside of work. When employees feel supported in maintaining a balance, they bring their best selves to work, leading to greater productivity and creativity.
Creating Happiness Beyond the Workplace
Happiness within our workplace extends beyond our own walls. At Glassical Designs, our joy and positivity are passed on through the awards we craft for companies worldwide. Each custom crystal or acrylic award we produce is more than just a piece of art — it’s a symbol of achievement, appreciation, and joy.
By fostering happiness within our team, we create products that help other companies celebrate and motivate their employees. Our passion for recognition becomes part of our clients’ celebrations, helping them build positive cultures within their own organizations.
Why Workplace Happiness Matters
The benefits of fostering a culture of happiness extend beyond the immediate effects of joy and well-being. Studies show that happy employees are more productive, more engaged, and more loyal. They bring more energy, creativity, and collaboration to the workplace, which in turn leads to better outcomes for the business.
At Glassical Designs, we believe that workplace happiness is not just about employee satisfaction — it’s a strategic advantage. A joyful workplace leads to stronger teamwork, better client relationships, and ultimately, superior results.
How to Foster a Culture of Happiness in Your Workplace
If you’re looking to create a similar culture of happiness in your own workplace, here are a few takeaways from our approach at Glassical Designs:
- Emphasize open communication: Foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas, feedback, and challenges.
- Recognize achievements regularly: Don’t wait for formal events — make recognition part of your daily culture.
- Encourage creativity: Give employees the freedom to innovate and explore new ideas, no matter their role.
- Prioritize work-life balance: Offer flexibility and understand the importance of personal commitments.
- Celebrate joy: Create a culture that not only supports happiness but spreads it to your clients and partners through your work.
At the end of the day, fostering a culture of happiness is about more than just improving the workplace — it’s about creating a lasting, positive impact that extends beyond the office and into the lives of those we serve. At Glassical Designs, we’re proud to make happiness a core part of who we are, and it shows in everything we do.
By fostering joy within our own team, we’re able to help companies around the world celebrate the achievements and contributions of their people — making happiness an integral part of corporate success.
