The Fabric of America

Stylist and content creator Alysia Cole joins Melissa and Matt for an unfiltered conversation about authenticity in the wedding industry and beyond. From carving out space for plus-size and queer clients to balancing social media vulnerability, Alysia shares how she navigates visibility, criticism, and creative freedom. They dig into body neutrality, identity fatigue, and why aesthetic doesn’t hav...

Fashion designer, product developer, and pattern maker Xochil Herrera Scheer joins Melissa and Matt for an energetic and heartfelt conversation on the future of American manufacturing. They dig into the cultural narratives, real challenges, and everyday decisions that can help shift consumer habits and bring ethical production back into focus. From why Walmart collaborations to gatekeeping factori...

In this episode we talk with Jake from Southland Heritage—a platform and directory listing over 350 American-made brands—to talk about intentional consumerism, community collaboration, and why he hopes his directory eventually becomes unnecessary. Jake shares how he vets companies, his vision for American manufacturing, and how small, conscious choices can spark a bigger cultural shift. From stain...

In this episode, we chat with Olivia Bé Nguyen, aka Fiyab0mb, about her journey from a kid watching Bob Ross to a powerhouse artist whose work hangs on Wall Street. We dive into the highs and lows of turning art into a thriving business—from last-minute venue changes to earning a TEDx nomination. Along the way, Olivia shares why being genuine online, trusting your ideas, and knowing when to say “...

In this episode, we dive deep with Rachel Slade, author of Making It in America , as we unpack the complexities of American manufacturing — from tariffs and politics to the real people behind the clothes we wear. Rachel breaks down why this topic is more than just policy debates; it’s about families, communities, and a chance for some good old American innovation. Plus, she shares what’s next for...

In this episode, Matt and Melissa sit down with Bill Amos, founder of NW Alpine—a company redefining what it means to make technical climbing gear in America. Bill shares the story behind NW Alpine’s beginnings, their commitment to domestic manufacturing, and the company’s evolution from a passion project to a purpose-driven business. They explore the challenges of scaling ethically, the future of...

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 the lack of trust in knowledge that many consumers have nowadays with small business owners and businesses in general. Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https://demelisatelier.com/ Matt @ Bards ht...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Stiles from Photography Stiles and Lens and Light to explore what it really means to build community in the creative world. We talk about the power of vulnerability in leadership, the value of sharing knowledge instead of guarding it, and how blending different photography genres can spark unexpected growth. Chris shares how Lens and Light fosters a culture...

This week, we sit down with the vibrant and passionate Lexy Silverstein from re/make to talk all things sustainable fashion. From Gen Z’s take on shopping habits to the blurry line between genuine sustainability and savvy marketing, this episode dives into the real stories behind the clothes we wear. Lexy brings her expertise, humor, and a no-BS perspective to topics like thrifting, greenwashing,...

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. You've heard our opposing opinions about social media in The Fabric of America episodes. In this episode of Moving The Needle, we focus solely on our debate if social media is another thing to do for small business...

In this episode we sit down with Ariana Strings herself to explore the intersection of classical music, entrepreneurship, and modern-day performance. From navigating the wedding industry with intention, to rediscovering the joy of music through theater, this conversation is a celebration of saying "yes" to creativity. Whether you're a musician, a creative, or someone building something from scratc...

In this heartfelt episode, Matt and Melissa welcome Joshua, the creative force behind Cross Stitch and Cambria. Known for his gothic-inspired cross stitch art and rock fandom, Joshua opens up about rediscovering a lost interest, creative purpose, and finding connection through Instagram. What starts as a discussion about niche art becomes a moving conversation about recovery, identity, and inspira...

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 smelly clothing! Why it smells, cleaning different types of fabrics, what dry cleaning actually is, and why your "moisture wicking" clothing are some of your biggest culprits. Melissa @ de...

In this episode, we sit down with Virginia Brown, the artist behind Beret and Brush, a Connecticut-based artist known for her live wedding paintings and custom commissions. Virginia shares her journey from aspiring Army physician to full-time artist, discussing how her passion for art and life's unexpected turns in the job market led her to establish a thriving freelance career. https://www.bereta...

We were FINALLY able to have one of Melissa’s and Eric’s favorite people: Yasemin Ugurlu, founder of Reboot Eco , joins us to talk about her mission to make low-waste living more accessible through refillable products, education, and community engagement. With a passion for sustainability that goes beyond trends, Yasemin shares how she built a business focused on reducing single-use plastics and h...

In this episode, we sit down with Shawne Jacobs, the powerhouse behind Anne Barge, to explore what it really takes to run a made-in-America bridal brand. From American manufacturing labor realities and tariff challenges, to the balancing act of creativity and business, Shawne opens up about the grit, strategy, and heart behind her work. Plus, we dig into entrepreneurial spirit, evolving trends, an...

In this episode, we sit down with Chelsea Brooke—wedding planner, brand strategist, and process improvement enthusiast—to explore the art of evolving a business and staying true to yourself. Chelsea shares her journey of transforming Pearl Weddings into Chelsea Brooke Events, revealing the personal and professional insights that fueled her rebrand. From leveraging cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT f...

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 the benefits of meeting people in-person, why going to trade shows isn't about the products themselves, and starting a community like The Stitch Collective. Melissa @ deMelis Atelier https...

In this engaging episode, Rebecca Schoneveld shares her journey from a modest Brooklyn storefront to building a multi-brand bridal boutique, navigating the ups and downs of the fashion industry along the way. Rebecca candidly discusses the challenges of managing ethical production, balancing domestic and global manufacturing, and the realities of running a sustainable business in a complex, ever-c...

In this episode, Kristin Davis of Dhibi Couture joins the conversation to share her passion for bespoke bridal design and custom veils. The discussion explores the artistry behind her craft, the importance of community and local production, and the emotional and sustainable value of “Made in America” products. https://dhibicouture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dhibicouture/ Key Topics The creativ...

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 fabricofamericapodcast@gmail.com

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...

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 ind...

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.bardscloth...

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 gesture...