Celebrating Achievement: Amy Baradell, 2025 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarship Winner
The Window Coverings Association of America is proud to recognize the outstanding talent and dedication of professionals shaping the future of our industry. This year, we are thrilled to announce that Amy Baradell, co-owner of Window Works Studio, Inc., has been awarded the 2025 Jill Robson Memorial Scholarship for Workrooms!
In this blog, we highlight Amy’s journey, her career accomplishments, and the ways in which this scholarship will help support her continued growth.
Meet Amy Baradell
Amy Baradell began her career with a love for design and a passion for helping clients create homes they love. She launched her business in 1996, specializing in the design, fabrication and installation of custom window treatments. Over the years, she has expanded her workroom services and built a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, creative design, and strong client relationships.
Her work has been featured in local publications, and she continues to lead with a balance of artistry and professionalism that sets her apart.
Our Conversation with Amy
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got started in the window coverings industry?
“I began sewing at a very young age, which naturally led me to major in Clothing and Textiles in college. My first job after graduation was in a costume shop in upstate New York. When I made "curtains" for my first home, friends began asking me to make some for them—and I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed it. At the time, there were very few resources available, but I found a few helpful books at the library and began teaching myself.”
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
“While raising my three young boys, I started working with an interior designer providing custom swags and jabots and I saw what an amazing field this is. It allowed me to earn an income while being home with my children. I love the creativity and working with people.”
What are some of your proudest accomplishments in your career so far?
“I am proud of how long I have been in this career and the way I have continually grown. I began, as many of us, as a woman who loved to sew. Now I have a business partner and a team of 10. We have employees that have been with us for over 10 years, for which I am grateful. I moved my business out of my home in 2003 by buying a 1600 square foot studio. In 2009 Amy Meinecke and I merged our businesses to form Window Works Studio, Inc. We expanded in 2015 and bought the unit next to us to double that size. We now are a Hunter Douglas Gallery dealer with a large showroom in the front of our space and a workroom in the back.”
The Jill Robson Memorial Scholarship
What does receiving the WCAA Jill Robson Memorial Scholarship mean to you?
“Receiving this scholarship allows me to continue growing both personally and professionally. Our industry is multifaceted—encompassing fabrication, client relationships, financial management, and team leadership. There is always something new to learn, and this opportunity helps me take the next steps in expanding my knowledge and strengthening my business.”
How do you plan to use the scholarship funds for your professional development?
“I have registered to attend the Custom Workroom Conference in September. It will be a great opportunity to learn and connect. I am excited to bring our workroom manager with me!”
What advice would you give to others in the industry who are considering applying for this scholarship?
“Just do it! They will be glad they did. The process turned out to be a valuable opportunity to reflect on my career as I answered the questions.”
Professional Journey
How do you stay motivated and continue to grow in your profession?
“Relationships! They are what make this industry so special—and fun. Some of my closest friends are people I’ve met through this work. Shared experiences bring us together, and there’s always something to learn from one another. We support, challenge, and encourage each other along the way. We keep each other motivated.”
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your career that has had a significant impact on you?
“July 2024 marked the 15th anniversary of Window Works Studio, Inc., and we celebrated with a special event in January 2025. It was an unforgettable evening filled with longtime clients, employees, and friends who came to celebrate with us. One of the most meaningful moments was having our original business coach—who guided us when we started in 2009—make a special trip to be there. It’s an experience I truly treasure as I see God's faithfulness through the years!”
How has being part of the WCAA community influenced your professional journey?
“Discovering the WCAA was a breath of fresh air. I had been working alone for about eight years when I first heard about it, and it was incredibly exciting to meet others who understood my work and were so generous in sharing their knowledge and experiences. Through WCAA, I met my future business partner, Amy Meinecke. She had started our local chapter and invited me to join. A few years later, in 2009, we decided to become partners and founded Window Works Studio, Inc.”
Amy’s story reflects the values of dedication, craftsmanship, and community that the Jill Robson Memorial Scholarship was created to honor. As she continues her journey, we are excited to see the impact she will make on the window coverings industry and beyond.
Congratulations, Amy, on this well-deserved recognition!
Follow along with Amy and her work at windowworksstudio.com or on Instagram at @windowworksnc.