BAKERSFIELD, CA - At DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide, based here, the firm's success follows the old adage: "Mother knows best".

In fact, general manager and co-owner Patty Gray - along with husband and co-owner Everett Gray - has not only given a new twist to the more traditional roles of yesteryear, but has turned the design-build construction firm into one of the most successful franchise locations in the DreamMaker system.

This is notable considering that prior to her current position, Gray had very little business - or industry - knowledge, aside from helping maintain the books for her husband's remodeling business. Instead, she had elected to stay home and raise the couple's three children.

All that changed in 2003 when the pair bought the DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide of Bakersfield, and Patty - quite literally - dreamt that she should head the business, and decided to put that dream into action.

Gray proved a quick study indeed, smoothly translating her experiences home-schooling her children, bookkeeping, and keeping her home neat, into training and encouraging employees, managing an efficient office and creating a positive company culture.

This reaped dual benefits for the company - her husband was freed up to manage jobs, while she had the opportunity to lead the business and delegate work.

"Our company is unique because each member of our team is very well-suited for his or her position," says Gray, who notes that her son, Christian, acts as the company's production manager, while sons Ashley and John serve as financial controller and designer, respectively. Rounding out the staff are a sales manager, three production team members, and one helper.

"Our staff consistently delivers what the rest of the company promises - quality, service and value," Gray boasts.

To that end, the firm focuses primarily on kitchen and bath remodeling projects of up to $160,000, while catering to a "baby boomer" clientele who need professional remodeling guidance.

"These are customers that are looking for full service, quality and value," she adds.

In addition to the company's remodeling capabilities, the firm offers a variety of products, including ADA-compliant shower stalls and grab bars, tub liners and wall systems, as well as cabinet refacing, Gray notes.