In Conversation with Elizabeth Welborn

Tell us about your background: 
I am a native of South Louisiana, now living in Marin County, California. I grew up with a slow food — slow fashion mentality, loving activities like painting, pottery and working with wood, as well as hunting and fishing in my local, bayou community. Although I didn't have a formal fashion background, I designed a few of my high school prom dresses and clothes as a teen when I couldn't find what I wanted in the store. Designing and creating beautiful, well made things have always been passions. I am a lover of animals and, in particular, horses have always been magical to me. After traversing a few careers, including telecommunications, wine and food, as well as traveling and living abroad in Latin America and Asia, I settled in the San Francisco Bay Area and started my own business. My brand, Stick & Ball, brings together all of my passions — design, hand-crafting goods, fashion, sustainability, my love of horses and a sporting, outdoor lifestyle. The brand reflects my Southern roots, my love of California living and the South American countryside, and my appreciation of classic style. “Fewer is better” has always been my motto and is how I approach any design. When not working, I am cooking for or trying to keep up with my two teenagers, hiking with my crazy, Red Fox Lab, Bella, and finding inner peace when outside in Mother Nature with my polo ponies.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

Get mentors + too many major lessons to list! I understand why founders can easily go on to start other ventures after their first - there is so much to learn, every step of the way. But once you have done it (and made the mistakes), you have a much deeper knowledge of business fundamentals to help you to succeed.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Do what you love!

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Honesty, Integrity, Curiosity, Creativity, Sustainability

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

Bootstrapping & growing a business as a single mom

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Blue Jeans, a tee, my signature Stick & Ball poncho and my Stick & Ball boots

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-goodwin-welborn-8322708/

Website: www.stickandball.com

Instagram: @stickandball