We know not everyone has time for one-hour episodes so in Moving The Needle, we have a short conversation about a current event or topic.

In this episode we discuss the closing of Joann Fabrics.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

In this episode, we sat down with Allie Blair Dorman from Allie Blair Bookkeeping to dive deep into the world of taxes and accounting for small business owners. We shared our personal experiences and learned how smart financial decisions can be a game changer for any entrepreneur.

https://www.instagram.com/ablairbookkeeping/

https://alliebookkeeping.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ablairbookkeeping

Key Topics:

• Navigating tax season with confidence by tracking expenses and understanding deductions
• The importance of outsourcing accounting tasks to focus on growing your business
• Learning from early mistakes to build a resilient financial strategy

Takeaways:

• Embrace trial and error in the first year and don’t be afraid to make mistakes
• Keeping your books organized year-round simplifies tax filing and avoids costly errors
• Investing in a professional’s guidance is not just smart—it's essential for long-term financial health Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/ Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story [email protected]

The tailoring industry is long overdue for innovation, and Nancy Rhodes is leading the charge. In this episode, we sit down with the cofounder and CEO of Alternew to discuss how technology is revolutionizing fashion care and repair. From creating seamless connections between tailors, consumers, and brands to redefining how we think about alterations, Nancy is bringing a fresh perspective to an industry that has long operated in the shadows.

https://www.alternew.com/

https://www.instagram.com/alternew_official/?hl=en

Key Topics:

• How Alternew is streamlining tailoring and alterations through technology
• The importance of shifting consumer mindsets toward fashion care over fast fashion
• Why big brands are beginning to embrace sustainability and garment longevity

Takeaways:

• Tailoring and alterations are the missing link in sustainable fashion
• Technology can make fashion care as accessible as booking a restaurant or vacation rental
• The future of fashion isn’t just about what we buy—it’s about how we maintain and extend the life of our clothes

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

Welcome to our short-form series, Moving The Needle. We know not everyone has time for one-hour episodes so in Moving The Needle, we have a conversation about a current event or topic.

In this episode we discuss customer service: what it is, what it looks like, and why it's difficult to find in today's world.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

In this episode of The Fabric of America, we finally talk to the man behind the curtain, our AV guy, the one and only: Eric. We explore what sustainability means from a consumer perspective and how small actions can make a difference. Whether it’s making mindful purchasing decisions, reducing waste, or simply showing up for your local community, fulfillment doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or career success.

Key Topics:

• Navigating life’s “middle ground” and redefining success
• The importance of local community involvement
• How small sustainable choices make a big impact

Takeaways:

• Fulfillment doesn’t have to come from career or business—it can be found in community and personal growth
• Comparison can be misleading; everyone is on their own timeline
• Small actions, whether in sustainability or local engagement, can create lasting change

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier Connecticut Bridal Alterations

Matt @ Bards Our Story - Bards — Bards Clothing

[email protected]

Creating a clothing brand from scratch is no easy feat—especially when sourcing and manufacturing in the U.S. In this episode, we sit down with Brian Patrick from Union Overall Co. to talk about his journey in building a brand rooted in American craftsmanship. From navigating the complexities of sourcing materials to fostering a strong creative vision, Brian shares insights on entrepreneurship, storytelling, and the power of community in the fashion industry.

https://unionoverall.com/

https://www.instagram.com/unionoverallco/

Key Topics:

• The challenges of sourcing American-made materials and manufacturing.
• The history of Union Overall and its relation to a Sears brand
• Seeing community in action when small businesses came together to help Opie Way in Asheville, NC after Hurricane Helene

Takeaways:

• Persistence and research are crucial when starting a niche business.
• A strong creative vision helps set a brand apart.
• Community and shared knowledge, not gatekeeping, are key to growing an independent brand.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

In this episode, we talk with Mitch Gambert, the passionate force behind his family's nearly century-old American manufacturing business in New Jersey. Mitch opens up about the challenges of producing quality garments in the U.S., the pressures from large retailers, and the importance of true sustainability beyond just buzzwords. He shares his unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, the realities of the "Made in America" label, and why consumers need to take a more active role in supporting ethical production.

https://gambertshirts.com/

https://www.instagram.com/gambertshirts/

Key Topics:

• The challenges of running an American manufacturing business in today’s market
• The impact of big retailers on small manufacturers and pricing pressures
• Sustainability in fashion: Is it just another trend or a real movement?

Takeaways:

• Supporting American-made products requires consumer commitment beyond price comparisons.
• Sustainability must be more than a marketing term—it requires genuine action.
• Quality craftsmanship stands the test of time, proving that "you get what you pay for."

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

Welcome to our short-form series, Moving The Needle. We know not everyone has time for one-hour episodes so in Moving The Needle, we have a conversation about a current event in under 30 minutes.

In this episode we discuss the difficulty in staying motivated and how we all share the common human experience of feeling down. You're not the only one.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

Hey everyone, this week we talk with Vanessa De Los Santos of Eventistry—a dynamic wedding and events planner who’s redefining the industry with her genuine passion for connection, creativity, and community. In our chat, we dived deep into her journey, the nuances of planning events both locally and internationally, and the challenges and rewards of working in a predominantly white industry.

https://www.eventistryct.com/

https://www.instagram.com/eventistryllc/

Key Topics

• Event Planning & Coordination: We explored the full spectrum of planning—from Vanessa’s first events to the logistical challenges of day-of coordination, comparing experiences in the U.S. and abroad.
• Race, Identity, & Experience: We discussed how Vanessa navigates conversations about race in an industry that’s often whitewashed, and how she ensures her personality and professionalism take center stage.
• Community & Collaboration: The conversation highlighted the importance of connection in our industry—how meeting over coffee, sharing experiences, and learning from each other helps us all grow and succeed.

Takeaways

• Embracing cultural differences in event planning can lead to more meaningful and inclusive experiences.
• The transition to entrepreneurship comes with challenges, but adaptability and persistence are key.
• Understanding client expectations across different cultures helps build trust and long-term success.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]

In this inspiring episode of The Fabric of America, we sit down with Miguel Matos, a visionary artist and community builder based in Hartford, Connecticut. Miguel takes us through his journey of transforming spaces into vibrant hubs for local artists, fostering collaboration among small businesses, and breaking down silos to create a thriving, inclusive community. From navigating the challenges of urban revitalization to crafting a legacy for the next generation, Miguel shares insights on the power of art, connection, and intentional living.

https://www.parkvilleartgallery.com/

https://www.instagram.com/parkvilleartgallery

Key Topics:

• The evolution of the Parkville Art Gallery and its mission to showcase local talent.
• Building symbiotic relationships with community organizations, small businesses, and local governments.
• The importance of legacy, collaboration, and living with purpose.

Takeaways:

• "Community over competition" drives sustainable growth and shared success.
• Supporting local businesses and artists strengthens the cultural fabric of a community.
• Pushing boundaries and embracing change are key to personal and collective growth.

Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/

Matt @ Bards https://www.bardsclothing.com/our-story

[email protected]