Meet the Makers: Behind RB Curated
“At RB Curated, every textile, every stitch, and every detail begins with people.”
— Regan Billingsley
Blinded by camera flashes in Tikal, because with this crew every outing is an adventure
At RB Curated, every piece we create is rooted in human connection between artisan and designer, between culture and craft, between process and final product.
That connection is only possible because of the extraordinary team that works alongside me in Guatemala and beyond—photographers, videographers, designers, and production managers who share a commitment to craft, culture, and connection.
This is part of our Meet the Makers series, where we go beyond the finished product to introduce you to the people behind it.
Leslie Estrada in action
Leslie Estrada – Visual Storyteller & Documentary Photographer
“Artisan goods remind us that beauty doesn’t have to come from perfection—it comes from individuality, from the human touch.”
Leslie’s role is to capture and share the authentic stories of Guatemala’s artisan communities through meaningful imagery. Whether trekking to remote highlands or setting up a studio shoot, she frames every moment with intention, focusing on the details most people might miss. Her passion began at age twelve, evolving into a decade-long career working with local and international brands. What drives her is the desire to reveal the essence of everyday beauty, and to give it meaning through her perspective.
Ray Vázquez prepping for a photoshoot
Ray Vázquez – Videographer & Minimalist Visual Artist
“There’s poetry in the ordinary, and I find endless inspiration in it.”
Ray’s lens tells the moving, cinematic side of our story. Through video, he captures the essence of every process, distilling light, movement, and sound into something visually compelling and emotionally honest. His minimalist style means every frame says more with less—highlighting not just the work, but the human stories behind it.
Averie Floyd
Averie with our artisan partner Irma
Averie Floyd– Design & Production Coordinator
“I wanted to be part of something different from the fashion industry norm—to create in a way that respects people and the planet.”
Averie’s story is rooted in personal heritage. Her father was adopted from Guatemala, and her first trip here was to study backstrap weaving. With a background in fashion design, she now manages production alongside Flory and helps bring RB Curated design ideas to life. She still remembers the thrill of developing the hand-embroidered fabric for our antique chairs, working directly with artisans to ensure the placement and scale were just right.
Flory selecting thread colors
Flory Perez
Flory Perez – Production Manager & Artisan Liaison
“Every community has its own meanings and techniques, and that is a reflection of our culture and historical wealth.”
Flory bridges two worlds, connecting clients to the artisans, while translating design concepts into the language of weaving. Her deep knowledge comes from a lifetime in textiles, first learning to weave from her mother, then working in fair trade organizations for nearly two decades. One of her favorite projects has been developing the Culebra pillow with a weaving group in Santa Catarina Palopó, turning a concept into something tangible and entirely unique.
One of Melanie’s photos from the lake
Melanie Guerra
Melanie Guerra – Cultural Photographer
“Each piece carries a story, and it’s powerful to see how those stories resonate far beyond Guatemala.”
For Mellanie, photography is a way to preserve and amplify culture. She began working with artisans after moving to Lake Atitlán, drawn to the opportunity to reconnect with her own heritage. Her favorite moments with RB Curated have been in Nahualá, witnessing women weaving together—not just creating textiles, but strengthening community bonds.
Behind every thread is the strength of a team I deeply admire. They carry the dedication of an incredible team.
Every person here brings something different, be it a skill, a story, or a perspective, but what unites us is respect for artistry, culture, and the relationships that make this work possible.
This is just one chapter in our Meet the Makers series. There are many more voices to share, and each one adds to the living story of RB Curated.
Regan Billingsley, founder of RB Curated
“What you bring into your home should carry more than beauty—it should carry history, meaning, and connection.”
Back in the RBI studio where we showcase the collection (Washington, DC)