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A membership that helps you grow... Professionally, Personally, and Financially 888.298.9222

Speakers & Workshops

Please see the updated class schedule below.


 

DAY/TIME  

 

THURSDAY September 6th 8:15 – 9:45 Pillows-Palooza Donna Cash   Discover Your Sales Mojo Amy Meinecke The Redesign Class *$5 supplies fee Joanne Lenart Weary   Dressmaking + Engineering = A Formula for Success *$5 supplies fee   Peggy Morgans Dress Any Window with Relaxed Drapery Styles   Susan Woodcock  

 

  10:00 – 11:30 Low Bulk, Flip Method Panels Sandra Van Sickle Taking the Fear Out of Complex  Jobs Ginger Thorner Double Session & Deb. Williamson   Double session   Window Coverings Automation: A Paradigm Shift for the Industry Robin Matley  

 

           

 

1:15 – 2:45 Reversible Dining Chair Slipcovers, Fabulous and Fun!! Jeanne Henzel*   The Art of Decorative Nailing - It's not just for furniture anymore! Laurie Medford Sketching the Jackie von Tobel Way *$5 supplies fee Jackie Von Tobel* Fabricating Specialty Treatments Beth Hodges    Getting it Right: Basic to Intermediate Hardware Specification Anita Boetsma

 

3:00 – 4:30 Double session You CAN Teach a Workshop that Will Get You New Clients Beverly Hawkinson*   Double session   Embellished & Banded Upholstered Cornices Elaine Hinchman Designing and Selling Custom Bedding Donna Cash

 

           

 

FRIDAY September 7th 8:15 – 9:45 The Classic Bed Corona Scot Robbins The Measure of Success Amy Meinecke   The Power of Color and Light Margi Kyle   Cushions, Cording and Zippers Arlene Sauk Fast Soft Cornices for 2012 and Beyond Donna Skufis  

 

  10:00 – 11:30 Speed biz Speed biz Speed biz Speed biz Speed biz

 

           

 

SATURDAY September 8th 8:15 – 9:45 Sourcing New Items Jackie Von Tobel   Dealing with Difficult Clients Margi Kyle Working with a Designer to Get Your Work Published Jamie Gibbs Pattern Drafting and Modification Scot Robbins Elegant Italian Stringing Susan Woodcock
BUSINESS DESIGN FABRICATION INSTALLATION MULTI DISCIPLINE  

 

CAA Chapter leaders and Past President, Bob Hipps, share a light moment tudents in a class session take close notes ttendees shop and make connections in the exhibit hall he Fab Lab was a great success! xhibitor, Sunil Patel, shows his wares ttendees at one of the included luncheons. The food was GREAT!

Dress Any Window with Relaxed Drapery Styles!

Susan Woodcock

Are you looking for a versatile drapery style for any window? 

Do you avoid selling drapery styles on angled or arched windows? 

 

A relaxed or slouched style drapery is the answer!  In this class you will see how relaxed draperies can be used to solve your window dilemma from angles and arches to limited space allowances.  See how to measure and pre-plan, fabricate and install relaxed drapery styles.

  

Low Bulk Flip Method Drapery Panels

Sandra VanSickle

There are several reasons to consider a low bulk header for a drapery panel.  Perhaps the yardage is tight, or the fabric is very thick.  Low bulk headers can address both of these issues with ease!  With this method for fabricating panels a workroom can achieve the look of a professionally made panel without using a Blind hemmer.

 

Discover Your Sales Mojo  

Amy Meinecke

Amy thrilled her attendees in 2011 with her rock solid sales system.  Using her techniques, students will learn how to deal with different personality types and how to diffuse potential roadblocks to the sale.  Come to this class and learn how to leave the first appointment with a check in your hand.  We heard you were sorry you missed this class last year so here's your chance to pick it up in 2012.

  

Taking the Fear Out of Complex Jobs

Ginger Thoerner

Join Ginger as she shares her most difficult project to date, step by step. The photos, design concepts, prototypes and mockups will all be shown.  From conception to completion you will see all the challenges and obstacles she faced and the solutions used in the finished designs. Walk with Ginger and learn new and unconventional mounting techniques that really worked, plus discover the communication skills she employs to get the most from her workrooms and installers. 

 

Dressmaking + Engineering = A Formula for Success https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs036/1102261797823/img/268.jpg

Peggy Morgans and Debbie Williamson

In a re-do of their popular, hands-on double session from INSPIRE 2011, Debbie and Peggy will show you how to come to a better end product whether you are "right brain" or "left brain".  Learn time tested dressmaking techniques that will make your job easier and engineering tricks that can make all the difference.  This class features full participation from the attendees and carries a small supplies fee. 

  

Pillows Palooza!

Donna Cash

Join Donna Cash as she walks you through how you can add to your bottom line by designing and fabricating exquisite pillows. Embellishments, styling, different shapes and the best fills for the job will all be covered.  Don't just sell a pillow. Sell a piece of art!  Donna will show you how.

 


 

The Art Of Decorative Nailing:  It's Not Just For Furniture Anymore!

Laurie Medford

How do you get all those decorative nails to line up in such perfect rows? Can you use nails on the leading edges of panels? Join Laurie as she walks you through the necessary steps to measure and estimate for product on jobs like these. Hands-on steps will show proper installation and adjusting techniques for a perfect job every time. 

 

Window Coverings Automation:  A Paradigm Shift for the Industry

Robin Matley

Join this presentation and discussion on what it takes to "WOW" your clients with window covering automation. Find out why you need a paradigm shift in thinking when it comes to including automation and controls into your projects. This presentation goes over the "big picture" of what it takes to design, plan, implement and profit with a truly amazing system in your window covering designs. Join a shade automation consultant, with projects from Hollywood to Silicon Valley, to learn what the difference is between a top-notch, high-end design and installation, and what doesn't make the impact that your clients expect. 

 

Elegant Italian Stringing

Susan Woodcock

Italian stringing is a classic technique used to create an operable drapery or curtain.  It was a popular solution for window and bed hangings in Colonial America and other parts of the world, but Italian stringing is not just for historic and traditional homes; it can be found today in many different styles of décor from old-world elegant to modern chic. Learn about the history of Italian stringing and see, step-by-step, how to create this look.

 

The Redesign Recipe  https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs036/1102261797823/img/268.jpg

JoAnne Lenart-Weary

Instant gratification decorating=Instant gratification revenue. This jam-packed session focuses on the Power of Placement. Nothing changes a room more quickly than Placement and believe it or not, there is a best way to make this happen. Redesign, One Day Decorating, Rearranging, Styling, although this service has a lot of names, bottom line, it is a money maker and great way to get your foot in the door. This class is hands on and carries a small supplies fee

 

Designing and Selling Custom Bedding

Donna Cash

Attend this class and learn everything you ever wanted to know about designing and selling custom bedding.  Learn how fill weights and quilting patterns interact with fabric and how take up plays into measuring and fabricating.  Don't miss this class if you want to add to your profit levels.  Bring your camera and don't be shy about using it.  You'll want to take these ideas home!

 

Reversible Dining Chair Slipcovers:  Fabulous, Fun and PROFITABLE!

Jeanne Henzel

WOW your clients with fabulous and flexible reversible slipcovers! This YOU-nique product is fun AND profitable.  During this lively double session, you will learn about selection of materials, design, fabrication, couture dressmaker methods, and tips for selling and pricing. In no time, you'll be making and or selling spectacular slipcovers that will engage your clients' imaginations and fuel inspired entertaining. They'll be the hit of the dinner party, and treasured possessions for your clients for years to come!

 

You CAN Teach a Workshop That Will Get You New Clients

Beverly Hawkinson

This class is a primer for the professional who wants to hold a class or workshop but is unsure of how to begin.  This interactive class will outline the whole process including, building your program, finding a space, marketing and advertising so that you're not speaking to an empty room, setting up and delivering the BIG EVENT and, finally, follow-up to get your phone and cash register ringing!


 

Sketching the Jackie Von Tobel Way   https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs036/1102261797823/img/268.jpg

Jackie Von Tobel

This class was our most popular offering at INSPIRE 2011, so Jackie agreed to bring it back for an encore.  Join Jackie and learn her secret to producing professional looking sketches, at the job site, for your clients.  During this interactive double session you will learn the quick rendering secrets Jackie has developed over her many years in the business.  Anyone can sketch once Jackie shows you how! This class is full participation and carries a small supplies fee

 

Fabricating Specialty Treatments

Beth Hodges

What makes your knees knock?  Arches?  Bays? Bows?  Preparing a template?  A client with a picture and a desire that it looks "exactly like this"?  Sometimes, you just have to drop back and drape. Attendees to this newly created class will learn how to get over the fear of specialty treatments and on with the job of creating and getting paid for them.

 

Embellished and Banded Upholstered Cornices

Elaine Hinchman

Anyone can pump up their profits by adding specialty cornices to their repretroire. Learn how to fabricate a one of a kind upholstered and banded cornice using simple techniques and embellishments. Join Elaine as she shows you, step by step, how to fabricate the basic cornice and then how to add banding and those little extras that put money in your pocket.

 

Getting It Right!  Intermediate Hardware Specification

Anita Boestma

Hardware mistakes can be very costly. Learn the ropes with this fast paced class for accurate hardware specification. Avoid expensive mistakes by understanding all of your options up front. Lots of tips and tricks will be shared for pre-planning the installation in the measuring stage. This class will cover the basics from telescoping traversing tracks to modifying pre-packaged sets. Class will also cover combining and specifying individual pieces to create a whole look. Budget, durability and functionality will drive the discussion.  

 

The Classic Bed Corona

Scot Robbins

The classic bed corona has been a focal point in bedroom ensembles for centuries. The Victorian Age used these as a status symbol and today they still pique our decorating interests. Veteran instructor Scot Robbins will explore this unique product and show you simple ways to build the frame, attach drapery panels and affix over-valances. You will learn installation techniques along with tips for hiding the brackets and ceiling mounted coronas along with various hardware options for panels. Different corona shapes and styles will be discussed, along with tips for detail and construction.  This class will boost your interest and confidence when working with "The Classic Bed Corona"!!!

 

The Measure of Success

Amy Meinecke

Whether you are a sole proprietor or have multiple employees, the health of your business is dependent on your knowledge of its financial data and your ability to plan for profit. This class will give you the tools necessary to analyze your current financial status and plan for future profits. By understanding how the numbers work together, you can build a plan for financial success!  This class will inspire you to take control of your business.   

 

The Power of Color and Light

Margi Kyle

Selecting just the right color for the job is imperative and can take hours.  How many times, though, have you spent all that time and then found that you can't see the colors at night?  This class will teach you the language of 25 colors on the color wheel, how to narrow down the selection of colors in your client’s home and then how to properly illuminate their space.  Both the color and temperature of the light bulb you select will make a difference.  Learn how to create ambiance through using the 4 different levels of light in a space, and how to match the bulb to the activity, color and feeling of the room. 


 

Fast Soft Cornices For 2012 and Beyond!   https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs036/1102261797823/img/268.jpg

Donna Skufis

Join Donna as she shares her newest innovations, products and unique design ideas for soft cornice construction.  Originally developed in 2000, this class has been completely revamped with new ideas for the new decade.  A slide show and sample parade will show off how versatile these techniques are. Each student will be given time to practice these techniques "hands-on" in this class. This practice sample is yours to take home as a reference and reminder of what you learned.  Bring your camera and don't miss a single shot.

 

Pattern Drafting and Modification  

Scot Robbins

We heard you!  This class was so popular in 2011 that we're bringing Scot back again so you can attend.  Pattern drafting is truly an art form. Draping fabric and studying what takes place can open up the mind to overcome the challenges of dealing with patterns. Scot will showcase a fast paced collage of different pattern styles including cascades, horns, the slouch swag and other simple yet dramatic treatments. Scot will drape fabric, cut and piece together different styles before your eyes. Window treatment examples will show you these styles in a finished form. Simple tricks for mounting and fabrication techniques for best results will be discussed. Whether you're an advanced fabricator or new to the business, Scot's seminars are sure to spark your imagination.

 

Dealing with Difficult Clients

Margi Kyle

What do you do when that dream client turns out to be a nightmare? Margi knows how to avoid such problems before they start and she can teach you too.  You will also learn how to handle problems if they arise during the project despite your best efforts Learn how to run your business, create a brand for your business, and deal with the many personalities of your clients. You will leave the session with many tips on how to figure out which clients will make you money, and which clients will simply take your money. 

 

Working With An Interior Designer to Get Your Work Published

Jamie Gibbs

Everybody likes to see their name in print, but if that mention includes photos of your work and a spread in a high-end publication even better! Join Jamie Gibbs in a lively discussion about how to connect with designers that will get your talents photographed and published. The seminar will incorporate a discussion about legal rights, permissions, copyrights and how to extend the life of your published work to get you business and increase your profits!

 

Sourcing New Items That Will Delight Your Clients

Jackie Von Tobel

Do you get tired of using the same sources year after year? Would you like to be able to offer your clients new options and create more artistic and unique designs? Would you like to learn new skills that can add to your bottom line? Every year Jackie scours multiple trade shows and creative industry events across the country to bring you new and fascinating sources for product that will bring your work to the next level. See new, innovative products and tools from the fashion design, crafting, quilting, and art industries that will allow you to easily customize your designs and spark your creativity. Leave this class with a huge resource list of websites and company contacts that will rejuvenate your business. 

 

Cushions, Cording and Zippers

Arelene Sauck

There is money to be made for the workroom that offers cushion replacement, new box cushions, upholstery or slipcovers. There is also a great deal of opportunity for those who offer cushions for outdoor living. This class will show you the proper method to ensure your cushions come out perfectly each and every time. Tried and true precision techniques will be taught and participants will walk away with a technique to make the corners line up EVERY SINGLE TIME. You will also learn the tricks that make inserting zippers a breeze. Never fear the box cushion again!

 

Here are some comments we received about the 2011 program:

 

"I expected WCAA to have an extremely satisfying conference!! Loved, loved, loved the convenience the Galt House provided, never having to walk/drive/be transported to another building for classes, lunch, dinner, etc. Loved having one night off to experience dinner at a local restaurant. Had so much fun at the gala dinner!! Glad I danced like a fool after eating a huge piece of cheesecake for dessert!! Never knew a good mint julep until Inspire!! Loved meeting new people and old friends. Can you tell I had a fabulous time?!!! Thank you, WCAA, for creating this wonderful opportunity for all of us!"

 

"There were so many wonderful classes, it was very difficult to choose which ones to take!!" 

 

"1000 dollars included my hotel, meals, a great party and I got to take classes too!!!! ;-) My sincere thanks to all of you.  What a great deal!"  

 

"There was nothing that I would change. I liked having all the meals that we had for the opportunities to meet new people. Louisville was easy and convenient."

 

"It was a wonderful conference, very inspiring, great classes and teachers and wonderful networking opportunities."

 

"Sorry, but I can't think of one thing I would change. As soon as I saw Sarah Richardson was going to be the guest speaker I signed up. She was perfect whoever chose her .......awesome.... Thanks so much for a great experience."

Breaking Conference NEWS

REGISTER for the Conference

All members of the design community are invited to attend WCAA’s Inspire 2012. Members and Industry Partners will enjoy preferental pricing.  To register please DOWNLOAD a registration form for the full conference or DOWNLOAD a single day pass here.

Interested exhibitors can DOWNLOAD the exhibitor form here. Space is strictly on a first come, first served basis so exhibitors are encouraged to book their package soon.

Interested sponsors are welcome to contact Nancy Copen at ncopen@mgmtsol.com.

Classes are available for registration (see registration form). Class space is limited so please register early.  

The full class selection is available on your registration form.

Attendee Information

Exhibitor Information

Hotel Information

DOWNLOAD the ALL INCLUSIVE Attendee registration form

DOWNLOAD the Attendee Single Day Pass registration form

DOWNLOAD the Exhibitor Application Form

 



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