Today we’d like to introduce you to Amany Youssef.
Hi Amany, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born in Beirut, Lebanon, and when I was just four to five years old, my family moved to the United States after our home was bombed during the war.
One of my earliest memories in America was at seven years old, driving home from the airport and seeing beautiful houses with white picket fences. My mother told me it was her dream—and my father’s promise—that one day we would live in a home like that. From that moment on, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to make that dream a reality.
As my mother began facing health challenges, it became clear to me that my family’s future depended on me. I knew I couldn’t allow obstacles or rejection to stand in my way. From a young age, I had a strong entrepreneurial drive, starting with selling handmade cupcakes in elementary school. I later became a varsity soccer player and team captain, despite my parents not accepting me playing because I was a girl. Those experiences taught me resilience and discipline.
My journey wasn’t without challenges. I faced significant bullying growing up, particularly in middle school, to the point where I had to transfer schools. Those moments were difficult, but they ultimately strengthened me and shaped the mindset I carry today.
At 17, I applied to the University of Florida and was waitlisted. Instead of accepting that, I showed up at the admissions office every day for a week until I secured a meeting and made my case. I was eventually accepted. Once enrolled, I quickly realized how expensive it was to attend, so I started my first real business—a late-night hot dog stand serving craft hot dogs topped with mac and cheese and bacon. It quickly gained attention, grew rapidly, and eventually paid my tuition while allowing me to support my family.
I later founded AY Luxury Designs. In my first year, I grossed $2.1 million entirely on my own, designing, building, and executing every project. In my second year, that number doubled to $4.2 million, and the company has continued to grow exponentially.
I became the youngest female licensed building contractor in Florida at the time I earned my license. Since then, I’ve expanded my expertise by obtaining my Master Electrical license and Underground Utility license, and I now serve as Chair of Professional Women in Building (PWB) under NEFBA.
Despite the growth, I remain hands-on in the field, physically building and bringing my designs to life. This work is more than a career—it’s a responsibility and a promise fulfilled, driven by where I came from and the life I set out to build for my family.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I moved from Beirut, Lebanon to America at age four. Despite facing severe bullying growing up, I turned those challenges into resilience. At 17, I fought my way off the waitlist to attend the University of Florida. Later, I started my company entirely on my own, with no help, and built it into a thriving business.
We’ve been impressed with AY Luxury Designs, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
AY Luxury Designs is a luxury contracting company dedicated to transforming ordinary homes into extraordinary personal retreats. We specialize in designing and building custom outdoor living spaces that elevate both the beauty and functionality of your home. From gazebos, covered patios, pergolas, paver patios, fire pits, driveways, pool decks, outdoor kitchens, screened enclosures, to fireplaces, we take what’s often “builder-grade” and turn it into a one-of-a-kind oasis tailored to each client.
What sets us apart is our hands-on approach: we don’t just design—we build. I personally take part in most projects, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. Our goal is simple: to create spaces that bring joy, comfort, and a sense of luxury to everyday life. The work we do isn’t just about construction—it’s about enhancing homes and enriching the lives of the people who live in them.
We’re most proud of our ability to take a vision and bring it to life, turning ordinary backyards into stunning, functional spaces where families can gather, relax, and make memories that last a lifetime.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can work with, collaborate with, or support AY Luxury Designs in several ways. We’re active on social media, including Instagram and Facebook, where you can follow our projects, engage with our content, and stay up-to-date on our latest designs. Our website is also a hub for connection—people can contact us if they’re interested in transforming their home. Whether you’re looking to collaborate, support our work, or bring your backyard vision to life, there are multiple ways to get in touch and connect with our brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ayluxurydesigns.com/
- Instagram: ayluxurydesigns
- Facebook: AY Luxury Designs
