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

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: [email protected] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [email protected] Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!