About Modern Shade

Modern Shade, located in Austin Texas, is committed to manufacturing the highest quality shade structures and back them with an industry leading warranty at competitive prices.  We treat each customer as though they are our only customer, and we strive to exceed their expectations with outstanding service and exceptional products.

Our team

Clay Bridwell

President & CEO

Quality. Durability. Longevity. It’s what we demand of our products. And, it’s what Modern Shade clients have come to expect from us.

Prior to launching Modern Shade in 2009, we surveyed the market by asking current commercial shade structure owners what they liked and disliked about their structures. We found that the consistent concern and frustration was fabric longevity as many existing shade structures didn’t last more than a few years.

With an innate commitment to quality, driven by a belief that our clients should expect from us what we expect from others, we made it our top priority to examine every facet of how best to construct and reinforce the fabric membrane and design a fabric attaching system that would reduce friction and increase tension.

This led to the development of our proprietary MaxTension™ pulley system and extensively reenforced fabric membranes sewn, with heavy PTFE thread and interlocking, double stitched seams.  As a result, we have been able to extend the life span of our fabric canopies and offer a Non-prorated Warranty.

We strive to be the premier shade manufacturer in the country with the best designs, the highest quality products and unparalleled customer service. Our mindset is that we
have to earn this title every day and on every project with every client.

Through the grace and guidance of God, hard work, and plenty of valuable lessons, I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to grow this business.  And, I hold the reputation of our company, and products, in the highest regard.

When I’m not working at the factory with my Modern Shade family, you’ll find me spending time with my beautiful wife, Crystal, and our blended family of 5 amazing kids. We also have a beautiful German Shepherd, Lola, who is often the center of our entire family’s attention. Our family enjoys camping, fishing, hunting, golfing and being involved in our kids’ activities.

I love God with all my heart and am guided by three bible verses in particular. 

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

And, of course …

Matthew 7:12 “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

My promise is this … my word is my bond and our actions, interactions, and quality of our products will reflect my stated beliefs.  I will treat your project as though it was my own and ensure you get the quality and level of service you expect and demand.

Juan Gutierrez

Operations Manager

I have been with Modern Shade for 10 years. First as a welder/fabricator, then as a steel department supervisor, designer and now as operations manager.

I’ve been married to a wonderful woman for the past 20 years. She’s also an incredible mother that cares about her family and is very supportive in everything we do. 

We have two wonderful teens; my son is 16 and my daughter is 14 years old. They’re very good kids and consider myself very lucky to be their dad. This year they both received their black belt in Taekwondo after seven years of training. 

We enjoy family movie nights at our home, backyard BBQ’s and going out to movie theaters, arcades, theme parks, fishing, and generally spending time together. 

We have a 4-month-old cat named Camilo, he’s become a very special member of the family, he’s a very loving cat and loves to take naps in my bed. 

I can say that I truly love being part of the Modern Shade family!

Why
Modern Shade?

Why Modern Shade?

Unsurpassed Quality

All Modern Shade designs are proprietary and have been engineered to meet specific load requirements. Modern Shade LLC creates shade options for each and every customer project with products that do not require heavy maintenance. Our structures provide an open feel that cools the air by as much as 25 degrees and blocks up to 97% of harmful UV rays.

Exceptional Customer Service

Our top of the line products combined with our firm belief in impeccable customer service are what makes doing business with us an exceptional experience. Modern Shade representatives are 100% committed to providing each customer with the very best customer care on every order. There is always a live person you can speak with during business hours. We are responsive and always here to help!

Because We Care

We can ship anywhere in the continental United States and all of our shipments are fast, reliable and backed by insurance. When comparing Modern Shade products to the competition it’s important to know what you’re buying. When you buy Modern Shade you get a manufacturer who is committed to each detail necessary during manufacturing and shipping.