Jennifer Fairbanks, Porcelynne

Jennifer's journey into the world of design began as a precocious 5-year-old who not only learned to sew but also sold her creations at her lemonade stand. After attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, she specialized in intimate apparel design. However, a tough experience post-graduation led her to leave the industry temporarily, and it was this pivot that led her back to school for graphic and web design. Returning to her first love of design but on her own terms, she moved across the country to San Francisco where she became a prominent figure in the design community.

Jennifer’s expertise is not just academic; it is the result of a lifetime of hands-on practice. She launched Porcelynne Lingerie, her first business in San Francisco, and learned business acumen the hard way—by making every possible mistake. Her experience of running her business and her involvement in design collectives gave her unique insights into the industry. She even landed a teaching position at FIDM in San Francisco, gaining formal experience in guiding others through the design process. Jennifer has authored books on design and participated in a pilot for a lingerie design reality show.

After a move to Los Angeles, where she met her husband, Jennifer continued to teach, write, and mentor, ever expanding her repertoire. Her journey has seen various twists and turns, from opening a fabric store to starting a nonprofit design school. Despite the obstacles, Jennifer has continued to thrive and adapt, driven by an insatiable passion for design and teaching. The most remarkable part? She’s achieved all this and more by the age of 40. Now a few years older, she is continuing to do what she loves: design and teach.

So, when you take a class with Jennifer, you're not just learning from a teacher; you're learning from a seasoned designer and entrepreneur who has walked the path she's guiding you on. Jennifer’s classes are an amalgamation of her years of experience, failures, successes, and most importantly, her unwavering passion for design. Whether you choose the full course or individual modules, you're in the most capable hands.

Lily Fong, LilypaDesigns

Lily is the visionary behind LilypaDesigns, on a mission to ensure that every woman has access to bras that are not only comfortable but also supportive, eliminating the daily discomfort and constant readjusting that many experience. With over two decades of experience in sewing and a rich creative background, Lily holds a Master’s Degree in Education, which she utilizes to enhance the lives of women through essential pieces of clothing, education, and a boost of confidence.

Lily's journey into the world of custom-made lingerie was ignited by her personal struggle with ill-fitting bras. Shocked by the lack of proper fitting options, even from reputed stores and specialists, she embarked on a quest for the perfect bra post nursing. Lily’s revelation about DIY bra sewing marked the end of her struggle with uncomfortable bras that were either too big, too small, or the wrong shape, transforming not only her wardrobe but also her well-being and self-perception.

The psychological upliftment Lily experienced from wearing a well-fitted bra post-nursing was monumental. The lifted spirits, an illusion of weight loss due to proper lift and support, and freedom from underwire pain in vibrant and appealing textures and colors were life-changing. This awakening inspired her to delve deeper into the art of bra-making, leading her to attend several sources including an industry-leading UK instructor.

Her newfound passion and skills in bra sewing and designing birthed a company targeting underserved shapes and sizes with the noble aim of sharing the profound joy and comfort derived from perfectly crafted lingerie. Lily’s endeavor is not merely about lingerie creation but about fostering a transformative experience for women, helping them embrace their bodies, and instilling a sense of self-love and acceptance.

Through LilypaDesigns, Lily continues her passionate pursuit of making comfortable, supportive, and aesthetically pleasing bras accessible to all women, ensuring that the essence of femininity is celebrated and respected. Her commitment to education and empowerment through intimate apparel is a beacon of hope for many women, echoing the transformative, uplifting power of a well-made bra.

Maddie Kulig, Madalynne Intimates

Maddie Kulig, the creative force and owner behind Madalynne Intimates, brings a rich and multifaceted background to the world of lingerie design. Born in sunny Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Maddie wasn't the typical arts-oriented child, but rather a science enthusiast who had a knack for staying atop fashion trends. Her life took a pivotal turn when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, altering her priorities and putting her on a path where she would only surround herself with what truly mattered, and sewing became one of those passions.

Maddie's journey into the world of sewing began at eighteen, sparked by the discovery of her mom’s old sewing machine during a holiday break. This newfound hobby led her to a transformative 2 1/2-year apprenticeship with a local tailor, Myshka, who had previously worked for Christian Dior. Maddie's educational journey involved studying fashion design at The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and fashion merchandising and retail marketing at Johnson and Wales, where she secured a coveted externship, and eventually a full-time role, with Urban Outfitters in technical design.

Balancing multiple roles, Maddie maintained her blog, Madalynne, and soon became URBN’s resident photographer, in-house graphic designer, and blogger, covering brands like Anthropologie, Free People, and BHLDN. 2016 was a defining year for her as she launched exclusive collections of Madalynne Intimates with Urban Outfitters, released lingerie patterns with Simplicity, and became the brand ambassador for PFAFF, teaching sold-out Bra Making Workshops around the globe.

Maddie's story isn’t one of tragic failure followed by success, but a journey marked by constant evolution and learning. The essence of Madalynne Intimates is to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, providing beautifully practical lingerie solutions whether sewn by individuals or purchased ready-made. With every piece of intimate apparel, Maddie aspires to imbue the courage and spirit she saw in her mother’s eyes, a reminder that true beauty is unyielding and transcendent.

Bodil Friman, B,Wear

We are delighted to welcome Bodil Friman, the founder and owner of B,Wear, to our retreat. Bodil's journey into the world of lingerie began at the age of nine, sewing alongside her mother and grandmother. Faced with the challenge of finding a ready-to-wear bra that fit her properly, Bodil's passion for bra making was ignited when she decided to create her own. Through years of practice and self-teaching, complemented by a few formal classes, she mastered the craft of bra making, eventually sewing bras for friends and beyond.

Nearly ten years ago, Bodil launched the European Bra Summit in Stockholm, a week-long event featuring guest teachers who share their specialized knowledge. Today, Bodil continues to teach and manage her successful online store, B,Wear, with the help of her daughter Angelica. Founded 11 years ago, B,Wear offers high-quality fabrics, laces, and notions that Bodil personally endorses and uses in her own projects. Her commitment to quality and passion for helping others has made B,Wear a trusted name in the lingerie-making community.

Bodil’s workshops are a testament to her extensive experience and dedication to the craft. Her hands-on approach and genuine desire to support others make her sessions both informative and inspiring. Join Bodil at the retreat to learn from her rich experience and enhance your lingerie-making skills.