Originally founded in 1908 in New York City, The Headwear Association is the oldest trade association in the fashion industry, and is dedicated to promoting hats and the headwear industry throughout the world, and to foster goodwill and fellowship among those engaged in the headwear industry.
This year’s dinner is a bit of a special time for not just us here at American Hat Makers, but for everyone at the Headwear Association. Garth’s term as president has come to an end, and at tonight’s dinner we are passing the torch to Gerry Miller Jr.
“Serving as president has been an ultimate honor”, says Garth. “Being able to usher new business relationships and do my part to drive the hat industry to new heights has been such a gift.”
The night went so splendidly. Naturally, we started with the business end of things, and to unwind after that we had a little cocktail hour. After that, we had a wonderful fashion show featuring all of the new styles that everyone is testing out. It was absolutely amazing!
Seeing all the gorgeous outfits made us quite hungry, and we ate a fabulous dinner to prep us for the awards show. Retailer of the Year went to Hatsational!
The Ben Rosenthal Award went to Douglas Highsmith of Dorfman Pacific hat company.
The Lieberman Award went to the one and only Garth Watrous of American Hat Makers.
And finally, the Fit Scholarship went to Marisa Belfiore.
Hannah and Carol Fit Professor Millinery and Accessories Dept
Lovely Millinery Ladies
Flashback pictures of Garth and Hannah Watrous
Annual group photo stay tuned for updated photo from photographer
Socializing at the event
Garth, Don R, BobB
Zack @ Village Hats
Board Meeting
This year the headwear Association provided pedicabs to shuttle us to The Boathouse. On corner of 5th Ave and 72nd and look for the pedicab drivers in the RED KANGOL Hats.
Thank you Ruby Roxanne for designing Hannah’s Hats every year.
Here at American Hat Makers, having fun is just as important as handcrafting the world’s finest hats. One of the principles this company was founded on was the philosophy that we not only treat our customers like family, but our team members too! 2019 has been a phenomenal year for us, and we wanted to celebrate by taking our team up to have a day in the snow! Last Friday we closed up shop, piled onto a bus, and headed up north to Leland Snow Park for a jam packed day sledding, throwing snowballs, and making snow angels. This is something we have been talking about for a long time, and we’re so happy we were finally able to do it; the majority of our team had never even been to the snow! We had so much fun and we can’t wait to go again!
At American Hat Makers we recently had a dream board party to bring in the new year! A dream board is a type of collage representing what you want to bring into your life in the coming year, whether it be goals, feelings, or just things that bring you joy. We gave our team the opportunity to create a dream board to place somewhere around the factory to visualize all of the things we strive for! All in all it was a great time where we all got to connect with each other and see all of the awesome things people are working to bring into their lives this year! Here at American Hat Makers, we want to do our best to support all of our team members dreams and will do anything we can to help encourage them to achieve anything they set their mind to!
Today, American Hat Makers threw a party to celebrate Dia De Los Muertos! We had a blast showing off our festivity and eating some delicious pan dulce with everyone. We had a costume contest so everyone could vote on who they thought was the most festive, and even played some fun games! On top of everything, we set up an altar to honor those who have passed on. Overall it was a great day of fun and bonding between all of our team members. Here are some pictures!
Here at American Hat Makers we emphasize the importance of promoting a healthy work environment, because in our minds a team-member who is happy and healthy will always put their best foot forward. It says right in our #3 Core Value that by being a family owned and operated business, we make it a point to treat everyone we interact with as we would treat our loved ones.
We do this by frequently hosting big parties for our team-members and their families, so that they can enjoy bonding with each other over some good food and fun games. This week was a big one, on Friday we had a big barbecue at our CEO’s house, where we had sack races, a pie eating contest, an egg toss, a raffle, and a volleyball tournament!
Then, on Tuesday, we had a beach themed party at our factory where we grilled burgers and had a costume contest! Many of our team-members brought their families and all in all, each of us had a fantastic few days having some fun with our co-workers! Check out the video at the top of the article for some of the highlights!
Hardly a more powerful term has ever been coined. Hearing Rock and Roll can conjure images of leather, pyrotechnics, and powerful motorcycles, however these are not the only things that define Rock and Roll. At its core, Rock and Roll is the spirit and drive that all passionate musicians pour into their music. To be a part of such a free-spirited and rip-roaring genre would require equally powerful musicians.
Steven Tyler is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and former television music competition judge, best known as the lead singer of the Boston-based rock band Aerosmith, in which he also plays the harmonica, and occasional piano and percussion. He is known as the “Demon of Screamin'” due to his high screams and his wide vocal range. He is also known for his on-stage acrobatics. During his high-energy performances, Tyler usually dresses in bright, colorful outfits with his trademark scarves hanging from his microphone stand.
Alice Cooper is an American singer, songwriter, and actor whose career spans over five decades. With his distinctive raspy voice and a stage show that features guillotines, electric chairs, fake blood, deadly snakes, baby dolls, and dueling swords, Cooper is considered by music journalists and peers alike to be “The Godfather of Shock Rock”. He has drawn equally from horror films, vaudeville, and garage rock to pioneer a macabre and theatrical brand of rock designed to shock people.
Vincent Paul Abbott, also known as Vinnie Paul, is an American professional drummer and producer who is best known for being a former member, and co-founder, of the heavy metal band Pantera. He is currently a member of supergroup Hellyeah. He also co-founded the heavy metal band Damageplan in 2003 with his late younger brother, Dimebag Darrell.
Joseph Thomas “Joe” Elliott is an English singer-songwriter and musician, best known as the lead singer of the English rock band Def Leppard. He has also been the lead singer of the David Bowie tribute band the Cybernauts and the Mott the Hoople cover band Down ‘n’ Outz. He is one of the two original members of Def Leppard and one of the three to perform on every Def Leppard album.
Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal wearing a limited edition Plainsman.
RonBlumenthal, better known by his stage name Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, is an American guitarist, songwriter, recording artist and producer. He adopted his nickname from the bacterial infection of the same name, which he learned about while helping his wife study for her veterinary exams. The name went from being just the name of an album, to the name of a record label, to a band name, to eventually his name as a solo artist. He was one of two lead guitarists in Guns N’ Roses from 2006 until 2014 and performed on their sixth studio album Chinese Democracy.
James William Durbin is an American singer and guitarist from Santa Cruz, California who finished in fourth place on the tenth season of American Idol. Durbin is currently the lead singer for the heavy metal band, Quiet Riot. He was the lead singer in a band called Hollywood Scars, where he went by the stage name of Jimmy Levox. Influenced by bands such as Metallica, Pantera, Judas Priest, Dream Theater, Guns N’ Roses, Iron Maiden and Motley Crue, Hollywood Scars drew their inspiration from the glitz, glam, and decadence of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip in the 1980s and early 1990s. The band released a single entitled “Under The Cherry Tree”.
Todd Ögren-Brooks is the ultra talented keyboardist for the band Rival Sons. Rival Sons is an American rock band from Long Beach, California. Rival Sons was formed in 2009 from the ashes of guitarist Scott Holiday’s previous band Black Summer Crush (which featured Michael Miley on drums and Robin Everhart on bass). The band took shape when singer Jay Buchanan was persuaded to come in as vocalist on the re-recording of Before the Fire. The band currently features bassist Dave Beste after Robin Everhart left in August 2013. They are currently signed to Earache Records. In September 2013 Rival Sons supported Sammy Hagar across the US then played Hard Rock Vegas in December and started the New Year by headlining a street party in their hometown of Long Beach. Rival Sons toured the United Kingdom from March to April 2015 as well as playing the main stage at Download Festival in 2016. In October 2015 they recorded their fifth album Hollow Bones again with Dave Cobb in just three weeks. The album was released July 2016. After the recording they toured with Deep Purple in Europe. In 2016 they toured as main support for the entire Black Sabbath farewell world tour lasting the entire run.
Dave Yaden is a producer, songwriter and actor, he has co-written songs on records by Tyler Hilton, Josh Kelley, Josh Hoge, Curtis Peoples, and Lady Antebellum. Dave cut his teeth in the LA music scene playing in a number of bands while attending USC. He signed a record contract with Atlantic Records alongside singer-songwriter Joe Firstman. With Joe, he toured the country, opening for everyone from Sheryl Crow to Michelle Branch to Willie Nelson. He has recorded and performed with Josh Kelley, cowritten many songs on Josh’s records and played on his hit Amazing, featuring a prominent wurlitzer solo by Dave. He has appeared numerous times on a number of national television shows including Good Morning America, CDUSA, The Ellen Degeneres Show, The Tonight Show, MTVs TRL, and Late night with Carson Daly.
Kenny Kweens is an American musician who is best known for his nine-year tenure as bassist in the hard rock band Beautiful Creatures In 2009, Kweens left the group and joined L.A Guns (fronted by Phil Lewis), replacing previous bassist Scott Griffin. However, in 2011, Kweens departed, replaced by Griffin. On September 22, 2014, it was announced that Griffin had once again departed the band, and Kweens rejoined the band. Prior to joining Beautiful Creatures, Kweens was a member of Shake the Faith, No. 9, Diamond Star Halo and Melody Black while in 2008 he formed his own solo project titled Villains of Vaudeville.
Steven Scott “Steve” Harwell is an American musician who is best known as the lead vocalist for the band Smash Mouth. Smash Mouth is an American rock band from San Jose, California. The band was formed in 1994, and was originally composed of Steve Harwell (vocals), Kevin Coleman (drums), Greg Camp (guitar), and Paul De Lisle (bass). They are known for songs such as “Walkin’ on the Sun” (1997), “All-Star” (1999), and a cover of The Monkees’ “I’m a Believer” (2001), the latter two of which were featured on the soundtrack for the animated film Shrek.
The power of Rock N’ Roll is far reaching and intoxicating! Once you travel down the road of rock, you’ll never look back!
This year’s Prosperity Camp was such a fun and fulfilling experience! For those that don’t know, Prosperity Camp is a 2-day seminar created by Greg Reid where the lucky few that attend have the opportunity to interview and discuss key points of business with a multitude of successful entrepreneurs. The energy, information, and networking we walked away with was invaluable and we left feeling completely fulfilled and ready to improve the way we approach running our company. Along the way we met so many interesting, amazing, and driven people who’s experiences gave valuable insights on many aspects of living your life to it’s full potential.
We at American Hat Maker’s are all about constant improvement in all aspects of life, so we of course jumped at the opportunity to attend such a useful event. Among those we met there was Jeff Hoffman. Jeff is a successful entrepreneur, proven CEO, worldwide motivational speaker, published author, film producer, and a producer of a Grammy-winning jazz album in 2015. He has been the founder of multiple startups, a CEO of both public and private companies, and has served as a senior executive in many capacities. Jeff has been part of a number of well-known companies, including Priceline.com. uBid.com, ColorJar, and more.
One of the first things you notice about Hannah Bertollini Watrous is the warmth of her smile. Most likely the second will be the warmth of her hug, because whether she is meeting you for the first, or fifty-first, time she will greet you like you are a long lost friend.
It’s that open joy that drives Hannah’s work as the Global Brand Marketing Manager for Watsonville-based American Hat Makers. Hannah is an integral piece of the family business (Husband Garth is the son of Founder Gary Watrous), whose mission is, “Having fun, laughing often, and honoring everyone’s unique strengths.”
When I first met Hannah it was not long after American Hat Makers had moved into their large warehouse near the Watsonville airport. What began as a one-man operation in her father-in-law’s garage over 40 years ago has since grown to employ 50 positive and fun loving people who work together to produce the finest, most striking, handmade leather hats in the world.
As Global Brand Marketing Manager, Hannah is tasked with promoting several unique brands under the American Hat Makers umbrella. This is no small task, as each line has its own distinct personality. Her work takes her all over the country, from the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, to high-end trade shows in Las Vegas and New York.
Regardless of how many miles she is logging, Hannah’s priority is family first and foremost. “I love that my beautiful daughters (Gianna, 23 and Leilani, 16) have the courage to follow their dreams, take risks, and fall short. They both love deeply, are knowledgeable, athletic, nurturing, humorous, and part of the next generation of entrepreneurs who will make a difference in our community,” she said.
As far as her marriage is concerned, Hannah clearly loves working with her husband Garth as much as she loves him. “We really complement each other. I’m proud of the fact that we work so hard on our relationship so that our girls are able to see what a healthy relationship looks like – to be respected, loved, and enjoy life to the fullest!”
Clean and sober for over 18 years, Hannah is now addicted to living life fully present and finding love and laughter in every day. Her dedication to enjoying life is evident in every aspect of her being. With her guidance, American Hat Makers dedicates as much to the fulfillment of their employees as they do to making amazing hats. She and Garth mentor employees, provide monthly themed breakfasts and lunches and Keep it Weird days (where everyone dresses up and laughter and smiles abound!) They work to encourage each and every employee to become their highest selves and fulfill their dreams.
One of the things Hannah feels most strongly about is helping the community. “I know we are fortunate to live a charmed life and it feels exceptionally good for my family to be able to give to those in need.”
Whether it is through American Hat Makers’ annual Hat Day in the Sun event, where they give away hundreds of hats and educate the community about protecting their faces from the sun, or by gifting beanies and socks to the homeless each winter through their Headwear for the Homeless campaign, Hannah knows it is through giving that we receive much more.
“I used to really worry about what others thought of me,” she said. “Now I feel incredible knowing I work hard at keeping my side of the street clean and discovering how I can be the best me, and finding ways to impact our world in a positive way. There’s not a doubt in my mind that I can make a difference.I have an abundance of Faith in the outcome.”
Voodoo Hatter goes to lengths unseen to deliver the ultimate in handmade leather top hats. 19th Century style infused with fierce sensibility and a touch of dark energy make our Voodoo Top Hats essential to your subversive lifestyle.
The Caliber in red, black, cigar, and rattlesnake.
From hard-kicking rocker to brazen biker or neo-noir grifter, you will make a definitive statement wherever you go. We designed these bad asses to be the kinds of hats you can become known for wearing. Formed out of black or brown full-grain smooth leather, our toppers are built to last. The new additions feature remarkable airbrushed, laser engraved designs and eye catching rattlesnake skin overlay.
The Skull N Roses (design by Adam Rose)
Adam Rose of Fallen Owl Tattoo is an amazing tattoo artist who sends us his designs to be used in the production of our hats!
The Silver Skull (design by Adam Rose)
These styles utilize state-of-the-art laser engraving and airbrushing techniques to perfectly recreate Adam’s absolutely stunning works of art.
The Cocktailer (design by Adam Rose)
Shipwrecked (design by Adam Rose)
Balance (design by Adam Rose)
Voodoo Hatter lives for biker rallies! Whether it’s the Lone Star rally in Galveston, Texas or the world famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally we love absolutely tearing it up with our fans and having a great time.This year’s rallies were especially great. As we attend more and more rallies, Voodoo Hatter becomes more and more recognizable among the community and being able to experience that first hand is incredible!
Downtown Sturgis 2016
Enjoying Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Voodoo Hatter is even respected among celebrities! We’re absolutely delighted to see such a wide range of stars enjoying our hats!
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith looking absolutely characteristic in an El Dorado
Elvis Nolasco of American Crime rocking an El Dorado
Anastasia Baranova of Z Nation wearing an El Dorado.
It really isn’t hard to see why Voodoo Hatter is so well loved! When you put on a topper by Voodoo Hatter it invokes an adventurous spirit that’s sure to take you to new places! When it comes to Voodoo Hatter, the meek need not apply!
American Hat Makers is partnering with the Professional Bull Riders at World Finals. We are one of the main sponsors of the event! You can find our booth at the PBR FanZone andMarketplace. Don’t miss out! The 2016 PBR World Finals that are widely regarded as being the “hottest ticket in town” during SEMA. We’ll be there October 29th-November 5th! We’ll be showcasing a lot of our hat styles so come check us out!
Professional bull riding is a fierce, rough, and grueling sport with roots deeply imbedded in American culture. It’s America’s original extreme sport. The PBR has evolved into a captivating and adrenaline charged sporting event that features an all star cast of the greatest bull riders and bucking bulls in the world.
South Point Arena 9777 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89183
Schedule:
OCT. 29-31: BLUEDEF TOUR FINALS OCT. 29-NOV 1: ULTIMATE FREESTYLE BULLFIGHTING OCT. 29-31 AND NOV. 2-5: CHRIS SHIVERS MINI-BULLS WORLD FINALS NOV. 1-5: ABBI WORLD FINALS NOV. 2-6: BUILT FORD TOUGH WORLD FINALS
As far as her marriage is concerned, Hannah clearly loves working 
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American Hat Makers 