A founding member of WithIt (Women in the Home Industry Today) and a 30-plus-year member of IFDA, Gefen has been honored by both groups with the Withit Legacy Award, the Withit WOW Award for Education and the IFDA Luminary Award. In addition, she is also the recipient of the prestigious Women in Business Award from the Triad Business Journal and the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) American Heritage Award.

The Trailblazer Award is presented to a person who is responsible for innovative or meaningful contributions or change that alters or improves some aspect of the home and design industry and how it functions or is perceived. The recipient does not need to be a member to receive this award, however, Carpenter is a member.

“It is very fitting that Patti is being honored with the Trailblazer Award,” Brinson said. “She has forged a deeper connection to the reason she trailblazed to begin with: to create a new path that brings opportunity for others. The scope of her work has encouraged so many to reach their full potential and her celebration of diverse talent is transcended by her vision to inspire. Both women lead with perseverance and passion, and we look forward to celebrating their outstanding achievements at the Gala.”

Principal of carpenter + company/Trendscope, Carpenter is a micro-enterprise specialist with U.S. presidential recognition for domestic and international expertise in artisan development, small producer and entrepreneurial training and economic development. An award-winning creative director she has traveled and worked in 57 countries as the global trend ambassador for Maison & Objet. She is also a consultant for Pantone. With extensive experience in product design and development, merchandising and color and trend forecasting, her work directly influences what we see in product design. She has designed, sourced and created innovative private label products for powerhouse brands such as Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Crate & Barrel, Yankee Candle, Donna Karan and Ralph Lauren.

Carpenter is a member of the board of directors of SERRV International, a non-profit that empowers global artisans and farmers through long-term trading partnerships. She is also an advisory board member for the Black Artists and Designers Guild (BADG).

The winners will be honored at the annual Awards Gala at the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston, MA on September 29th. In addition to these two awards, the Gala also honors design achievements and industry stars in more than 20 categories.

About IFDA
Established in 1947, IFDA’s mission is to inspire collaboration within the furnishings and design industry to support its people, products and services. It promotes professional networking and collaboration, personal growth, educational efforts and philanthropy throughout the industry. Professionals and students in all areas of home furnishings and design can become members. To learn more visit IFDA or follow us on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.