Meet the Experts
The Makers Meet is a celebration of the skill, creativity, and community that drive great workrooms and upholstery shops. We’re grateful to partner with such exceptional talent in support of industry education and continued growth.
Presenting Fabric Applications and Experiences
Tracie Bresnahan
Tracie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Engineering and a Master’s degree in Quality Assurance Technology from Southern Polytechnic State University (KSU). With 9 years experience in apparel and consumer products industries, Tracie founded Custom Creations in 1996, where she specialized in fabricating custom window treatments and soft home furnishings. Her engineering background has helped her establish a business that excels in unique and challenging design solutions, as well as custom-designed furniture upholstery. Tracie collaborates closely with her husband, Brian, who has a degree in Architectural Engineering, making him an invaluable partner in designing and building custom projects.
Presenting Fabric Applications and Experiences
Beverly Baribault
The career of Principal Designer Beverly Baribault is defined by enduring success and an exceptional breadth of work. Her portfolio spans exclusive private residences and distinguished commercial properties, each reflecting her signature balance of beauty, precision, and thoughtful detail. Beverly’s personal attention and design leadership are at the core of every project. Under her direction, Beverly Baribault Design Group has become an award-winning firm, with work published in international, national, and regional publications.
Presenting Why Sunbrella®
Ceci Flores
Based in Tampa, Ceci Flores is a Retail Training Specialist at Sunbrella, where she leads brand education initiatives and supports retail partners across the country. Whether conducting sessions throughout Florida or connecting with teams nationwide, she is passionate about sharing the practical science and design possibilities behind Sunbrella’s performance fabrics. In addition to her role at Sunbrella, Ceci serves on the board of WithIt, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and advancing women in the home furnishings industry. As Vice President of Scholarship, she is committed to helping the next generation of leaders gain access to meaningful educational opportunities.
Presenting New Fabric Collections
Amy Gillam
Amy is a North Carolina native and a graduate of UNC Greensboro with a degree in Textile Products Design and Marketing. She is a passionate designer and collaborative problem-solver with over 20 years of experience in the textile industry. Amy thrives on the thrill of discovery—whether through travel, connecting with people and family, or exploring the pages of a good book. She lives in Burlington, NC with her husband, Tom, and their two amazing children, Tommy and Gwennie.
Makers Meet: Behind the Scenes Experience
This ticket is non-refundable
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Presented by WCAA & Trivantage®
Supporting professionals, inspiring growth, and fostering connections—together, we help your business succeed.