Congratulations to Expert T’s on being named the 2025 Small Business of the Year (15 Employees or Fewer) Award recipient!

Since 1985, Expert T’s has provided screen printing, embroidery, and custom apparel services for Wooster and beyond. With an emphasis on building meaningful customer relationships, Expert T’s has been named this year's Small Business of the Year in the 15 employees or fewer category.

“It’s a validation that we are doing something right,” said Kelli Bricker, co-owner of Expert T’s alongside her wife, Missie Bratcher.

A Wooster native, Bricker has worked in sports and custom apparel for nearly 30 years, including 17 years at Pierce’s before joining Expert T’s in 2014. Her strong relationship with former owners Joe and Jodi Kennedy led to her acquiring the business’s three locations in 2021. Since assuming ownership, she and Bratcher have focused on refining their craft and earning customer trust. Guided by the motto “Be comfortable, be you,” they prioritize authenticity, ensuring every customer leaves feeling valued and confident.

Expert T’s has served the local sports and business community for decades, creating generational connections. Customers who once came in with their children now return with their grandchildren. “I guarantee you that Kelli Bricker will remember them,” Bratcher noted, emphasizing their deep customer relationships.

The support of the Wooster community has been instrumental in their journey. Bricker and Bratcher are especially grateful to the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, with special thanks to Chamber President Samira Zimmerly for being an invaluable connector and resource for their business. Their passion extends beyond their business, as they strive to give back by supporting local youth initiatives and causes focused on health advocacy and medical research, including those that have touched their lives. “We have a lot of ideas, and we have a lot of heart,” Bricker shared.

Expert T’s remains committed to exceptional service with a personal touch. “Treat people with respect…if you have a relationship that’s built on respect, you’re going to continue to get customers,” Bricker said. She and Bratcher credit their success to their dedicated employees and loyal customers and are proud to be a part of the Wooster community.

The Small Business of the Year (15 Employees or Fewer) Award is presented annually to a small business for its longevity in the community, positive impact on the local economy, contributions to the community’s well being, their concern for the well being of its employees and support of the Chamber.

2025 Small Business of the Year Award (15 Employees or Fewer) - Expert T's