Meet the Maker – Behind the Scenes with Nikki Cheatham, CMO of Movable Roots

In any successful custom home-building company, someone has to keep the vision sharp, the messaging clear, and the clients informed every step of the way. At Movable Roots, that person is Nikki Cheatham, Chief Marketing Officer. Let's go behind the scenes with Nikki.

From branding to client experience and interior design, Nikki plays a key role in shaping how people see—and feel—about a Movable Roots home.

From the Ground Up

Nikki has been part of Movable Roots since day one. She stepped in early to help with marketing, communication, lead follow-ups, and—when needed—even bookkeeping. Today, her role as CMO is central to the company’s growth and client connection.

“I may not be on the build floor, but I’m involved in just about every piece that touches the client—from first contact to final walkthrough,” Nikki says. That includes overseeing social media and website development, managing lead response, keeping Mike’s schedule on track, and consulting on design finishes.

Design that Connects

Nikki thrives in the design process—especially when a client puts their trust in her to help finalize selections.“It’s like putting together a puzzle,” she says. “You’re balancing what they love, what’s practical, and how it all fits together in a real space.”

She’s known for adding practical suggestions that make a real difference—like thoughtful fixture placement or layered lighting to elevate a room. She’s also constantly on the hunt for cost-conscious options that still feel high-end.

Favorite Builds and Creative Challenges

Her favorite builds include the Black Prong projects, known for their collaborative approach and shared vision. She also finds the modular homes exciting—“a different animal altogether,” as she puts it, with new challenges that keep the team learning.

Lately, she’s become especially drawn to lighting as a design element. “Task, accent, ambient—it completely transforms a space when done right.”

The Daily Reality

Nikki’s days start early—5:00 AM, to be exact. Most mornings begin by answering emails and reviewing the schedule ahead. After a short break around 7:30 to 8:30, she’s right back at it—juggling priorities across marketing, design, operations, and client communication.

“I usually have three to-do lists at any given time—on my phone, on the computer, and a handwritten one,” she says. “It’s all fast-moving. There’s always something to solve or someone to help.”

Her go-to fuel? Sour candy and a strong Starbucks espresso. Her playlists range from punk rock to classic rock to rap—whatever matches the pace of the day. And although she’s “technically not allowed” to use tools, she still has a soft spot for the sander.

Advice Worth Hearing

If she were designing her own tiny home or park model, lighting options would be a top priority.

Her advice to anyone starting the process?

“List out your must-haves, your wants, and what you can live without. Be honest with yourself about budget—and don’t shop for homes on Amazon. Do the research.”

But what matters most to her? The human side of it.“I once caught a couple embracing in front of their home after we delivered it. I was in my car and just happened to see it. It brought tears to my eyes. Those are the moments that make the long hours worth it.”