Episode #47

Kate Stewart

Episode Title:
Building a Legacy of Joy: Kate Stewart and the Story of Bauble Stockings

Episode Description:
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Kate Stewart, founder and CEO of Bauble Stockings, to talk about the family tradition that became a global brand. What began as a cherished Christmas ritual in her Atlanta home grew into a company that now employs fair-trade artisans in Haiti and collaborates with world-renowned designers and celebrities. Kate shares her journey from working full-time while raising two small children to launching a luxury holiday brand featured by Neiman Marcus, the White House Historical Association, and even the Hiltons. Her story is one of faith, perseverance, and purpose — proof that even the smallest traditions can create the biggest impact.

Key Discussion Points:

  • (01:35) The family Christmas tradition that inspired Bauble Stockings

  • (02:42) Realizing her family’s tradition was unique — and worth sharing with the world

  • (04:51) Choosing quality and purpose: why every stocking is hand-stitched in Haiti

  • (06:29) Turning a dream into a business while raising two small children

  • (08:30) The long road from idea to launch — three years of research and resilience

  • (09:50) Collaborations with artists like Mary Engelbreit and the power of giving back

  • (12:57) Building a business that supports women and fair trade employment

  • (15:10) Passion, perseverance, and the lessons learned from entrepreneurship

  • (16:53) How building Bauble Stockings transformed her confidence and self-belief

  • (19:55) Defining milestones: from America’s Mart to Neiman Marcus and the White House

  • (23:59) Hard-earned lessons in communication, persistence, and following up

  • (27:30) Kate’s mindset on bad days and how she stays grounded and positive

  • (29:44) Teaching her children confidence, gratitude, and the power of purpose

  • (32:38) The importance of support systems — from family to friends to faith

  • (35:03) Advice for young entrepreneurs and dreamers: build relationships, not competition

Notable Quotes:

  • “You can give up — which wasn’t an option — or you can keep pushing, learn from failure, and move forward.” – Kate Stewart

  • “It took me three years from my first email to my first product launch — but if you stay the course, it all comes back.” – Kate Stewart

  • “I built my dream one stitch at a time — and now, women around the world are part of that dream.” – Kate Stewart

  • “If I can build a business that gives back, other people can too. It’s a choice.” – Kate Stewart

  • “You’ll always learn the most in the hardest times. Be honest, communicate, and keep going.” – Kate Stewart

Takeaways:

  • Great ideas often start as family memories — the magic is in sharing them.

  • Persistence and follow-up are keys to turning “no” into “yes.”

  • Building a business with purpose means everyone — from the maker to the customer — wins.

  • Confidence grows when you push through fear, not avoid it.

  • Supporting women, both locally and globally, strengthens communities and legacies alike.

Connect with Guest:
• Website:
www.baublestockings.com
• Instagram: @baublestockings
• Email: Kate@baublestockings.com

Connect with Us:
• Follow April Kemp on Instagram:
@fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated on new episodes:
www.fanaticaldreamher.com
• Email April: april@fanaticaldreamher.com

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