Why Alison Victoria Surprised Her Boyfriend with Shout-Out in ‘Windy City Rehab’ (Exclusive) [Video]

On Tuesday, Sept. 24, Windy City Rehab returns to HGTV with all-new episodes as Alison Victoria continues to manage design and renovation projects across Chicago. 

Ahead of the premiere, Victoria tells PEOPLE that this season is her “favorite because I have gone through hell and back,” referencing past business struggles that have been documented on the series. But after taking the time to rebuild, she’s seeing her brand reach new heights.

“I’ve never been happier, which has opened up so much more creativity for me,” Victoria, 42, continues, explaining that she’s struck “this balance” between managing clients all over the country, working on various HGTV shows (Battle on the Beach, Ugliest House in America, etc.) and launching her own production company, Briefly Gorgeous.  

“Because of everything I’ve gone through, I am able to be a better designer,” she adds. 

Adding to that is boyfriend and filmmaker Brandt Andersen. 

In June, the two made things official when they walked the red carpet …