Carolyn Reese File

Many of you ask about my connection to Halloween. It’s no coincidence that my cell phone rings with a haunted house melody! I was born on my grandparents' homestead in Oklahoma on , and that spooky, festive energy has followed me my whole life. While my early memories are filled with trick-or-treating with my children, these days, my birthdays are often spent at trade shows, surrounded by the quilting community I love. Looking Ahead

While we’ve faced challenges—like the growing pains of new registration systems and server "traffic jams"—we always strive to improve for you. We are constantly listening to your suggestions to make every year better than the last. Whether you are coming for the world-class classes or the bustling vendor hall, thank you for being part of this tapestry. Until next time, keep stitching! Former Owner and Chief Ghoul Archive for the 'Road 2 CA Blog' Category carolyn reese

From the Cutting Table to the Main Stage: My Journey with Road to California Hello, fellow quilters and friends! Many of you ask about my connection to Halloween

This blog post is drafted from the perspective of , the visionary behind the premier Road to California quilt show. It highlights her journey from a family fabric store to leading a major international event, while weaving in her personal Halloween heritage. While my early memories are filled with trick-or-treating

When I first purchased the brand, it was just a handful of classes. But I saw a vision of what it could become: a premier destination for vendors, educators, and artists from around the globe. Today, as we celebrate decades of this incredible show, I am most proud that it remains a family affair, with my own family gathering every year to help bring the "Road" experience to life. The "Chief Ghoul" of Quilting

As I look back on the journey that brought us to where we are today, I am often struck by how a single spark of passion can grow into a community of thousands. For those of you who have joined us at , you know it’s more than just a show—it’s a homecoming for everyone who loves the art of the stitch. A Legacy Sewn in Lakewood

My story didn’t start in convention centers; it started in the yardage department of the May Company in Lakewood. In the 1970s, my mother and I took a leap of faith and opened . What began as a local shop quickly became a trend-setter in Southern California, fueled by our shared love for high-quality fabrics and the quilters who used them.