Our Story
Meet Our Staff
Joel Ellington, Co-Owner
Joel is the founder of Fisk Avenue and has grown the business from a woodshop in his garage into the creative workshop and gathering space it is today. Born and raised in Waukesha, he started Fisk Avenue after building his first dining table for his family and discovering a passion for creating well-made, lasting pieces. Named after the street where he raised his family, Fisk Avenue has welcomed makers from across the Milwaukee area since 2017, and Joel loves sharing that passion with the community he calls home.
Madilyn Duffy, Lead Designer
Madilyn has been part of Fisk Avenue since 2021, when she reached out on a whim looking for an internship and the chance to spend the summer with a small creative business. After graduating from Minneapolis College of Art and Design with a degree in Product Design, she returned full time and became a full partner in 2024. Madilyn now leads workshops, coordinates private events, trains the team, and expertly finishes projects. She has a passion for creating amazing workshop experiences and bringing clients’ ideas to life.
Stephanie Damien, Marketing Director
Stephanie has been part of Fisk Avenue since 2024, bringing over 20 years of experience in home decor design, specializing in wall clocks. A graduate of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, she loves supporting a local business centered on creativity and community. Stephanie helps shape the Fisk Avenue experience through the website, social media, behind-the-scenes processes, and new project ideas, and enjoys finding new ways to help the business grow and inspire others.
Duke, Shop Dog
Duke is a young American Bully trying his hardest to train to be the best shop dog he can! He enjoys meeting new people, helping lead workshops, and greeting every passerby at the window. He has been employee of the month every month since starting at Fisk Avenue and is excited to lead many workshops in the future!