Meet the 2026 Speakers
World-class designers, business strategists, and industry leaders who have built the studios you admire are here to share what actually works.
Wendy Estela
Founder of Estela Law and Designed Counsel™Wendy Estela is the Founder of Estela Law and Designed Counsel™, a contract template and subscription service exclusively for interior designers. With 25 years of experience in business law, Wendy focuses on serving the interior design, building, and construction industries. She has represented hundreds of interior designers, from AD100 and Elle Decor A-List professionals to those just starting out or changing careers. Wendy is a frequent speaker on contract negotiations and issues impacting the interior design industry, including presentations at High Point Market for prominent companies like Sherrill Furniture, Feizy Rugs, Daniel House Club, Studio Designer, Universal Furniture, and Dovetail. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Interior Design Community and The Design Besties. As an approachable and business-minded attorney, Wendy partners with her clients to deliver thoughtful, timely, and efficient advice, helping interior designers navigate contracts, business transactions, and risk management with practical solutions.
CEO & Creative DirectorBria Hammel
Bria is the Creative Director and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota and Charleston, South Carolina, she leads a talented, all-women team known for its thoughtful, process-driven approach to design. Her work spans the country and reflects a depth of experience shaped by diverse regions, architectural styles, and ways of living.
Her work has been featured in national publications including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and Traditional Home. She was recently named one of Traditional Home's "New Trad" designers and, most recently, was included on Luxe Magazine's 2025 Gold List.
Jonathan Gulley
Executive Advisor and Strategy ConsultantJonathan Gulley is a strategist, executive advisor, and former senior leader at Magnolia, the company founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines. He previously served as Head of Operations and Chief Strategy Officer at Magnolia, where he played a significant role in shaping the company’s internal structure and supporting its rapid growth. 2
During his tenure, Gulley was closely involved in operational leadership as Magnolia expanded its influence in Waco, Texas. He contributed to the company’s efforts to attract creative talent, build organizational systems, and support Magnolia’s role in revitalizing the local economy. His work helped strengthen the company’s operational foundation during a period of major expansion. Beyond Magnolia, Jonathan Gulley is an Executive Advisor and Strategy Consultant based in Waco, Texas. Through his advisory practice, Founder’s Table, he works with business owners and leadership teams on organizational structure, long‑term strategy, and scaling operations. His services include vision and strategy sessions, leadership team structuring, and interim COO/CEO support
