THE BACKSTORY
Barbells & Ponytails offers unique, quality fitness apparel designed specifically for women who like to lift. Or run. Or do yoga...hey, whatever you're into! I am not one to judge. This brand is really for any woman, of any size, any age, who enjoys any type of fitness. I believe in being inclusive...not exclusive. (And no, you do not need a ponytail!)
Who am I?
My name is Elisa...but you can call me 'E'. I'm 37, live in Tampa, Fl with my 3 dogs, 2-year-old daughter, 2 (future) step-kids, and an incredibly loving boyfriend/baby-daddy.
I'm not someone who craves attention (read: social anxiety) and I have no dreams of becoming an "influencer". I've been perfectly happy hiding behind the camera...but I realize the importance of our customers knowing exactly who "we" are.
So if you'd like to hear how we started...read on!
How B&P began (The short and sweet version)
In 2012, I discovered CrossFit...and that is when my entire life changed (cliche', I know). I was almost 30 years old, bartending, and in an incredibly toxic 5-year relationship…which I couldn't seem to escape. I had never been single, never lived by myself, and was terrified of the idea of being "alone". So I put up with a man who was manipulative, verbally abusive, and cheated on me like it was his job.
Until CrossFit.
Tired of the globo-gym scene, I stumbled upon CrossFit and was immediately hooked. It made me feel strong, capable, and honestly…like a total badass. My confidence skyrocketed…and soon thereafter, I kicked that piece of trash to the curb.
In 2013, I found myself opening a CrossFit gym (which is a whole 'nother story). One day, I was scrolling Instagram for some cool CrossFit gear. Everything I found was either hot pink or super cheesy…which was NOT what I was looking for.
It was then that I had my "lightbulb' moment to create B&P. I had a design in mind so I spent $300 (money that I could not even afford) on a graphic designer to help bring it to life. I wanted a design that women could wear and feel strong, confident, and...like a total badass. I had no idea if anyone would like my idea...but here we are 7 years later!!
I want all women to feel how I did when I started weightlifting. My entire life changed after that first touch of a barbell- and I'm dedicated to encouraging other women to find the thing that does that for them. I have big hopes and dreams for the future of B&P… so stay tuned- there is SO much more to come!
Elisa Tanner
Owner
P.S. I wrote all of that so you know that when you make a purchase from B&P, you are supporting a woman-owned small business...not some nameless, faceless corporation. I really hope to do some big things for women in the future- and your support means everything to me :)
Elisa is doing it right! I made my first purchase just before Christmas (full confession I was shopping for my husband for myself lol) and I ordered 2 hats and a tank. I was NOT disapppointed with the quality and the fit. All items are quality made and I get tons of compliments on both the hats and the shirts. I am fortunate that I work in an industry where I can wear baseball hats to work everyday if I want and since these arrived, they are all I wear. Cheers to 2021 being a banner year for you. Your personalized thank you e-mail after my purchase really made a lasting impression and I will continue to shop/support you as long as you are in business. Keep up the great work and motivating women like me who need our workout clothes to be fabulous and functional. Happy International Women’s Day, Elisa – you are representing well!
I came across this company and asked for a pony hat for Christmas. I got a hat and the lightweight crop hoodie and am OBSESSED! I love the products so much and can’t wait to get more! I love supporting smaller businesses like this. Thank you!
I love my hats and jacket for t corse I bought it too big and had to return it but I am Proud to weight for my ex small and not just that I am proud that you are so dedicated to what u believe in I am coming out of bad relationship driven by fear I have four kids and that work corrections and the gym is were I go to relax and focus on me and when my saw barbellsandponytails I was that for me
In 2017 my husband asked me to go lift with him – (he’s been doing it for years) at first I was insulted, like “what are you trying to say, I need to work out?!”. I’m no stranger to exercise, I was in the military for 8 years and always did well on PT tests. But I never felt a passion for any particular kind of exercise. But I gave in to my husband’s request to go lift… From the first time I touched a barbell, I was hooked, addicted. Life kind of got in the way for a while, and I was not consistent. But we have a mini gym in our garage now and I’ve rededicated myself to fitness since the Covid started. I feel great! I lift weights 3-4 times a week and run almost every day too. I took a chance ordering a shirt from y’all and couldn’t be happier with the quality. I have another order that should arrive any day now! Thanks for your quality of products and great service. Happy to support your company.
I came upon your brand on Instagram and I’m so glad I did. I love your products. So far I’ve ordered multiple shirts, hats and 2 jackets. I like that you send a personal email thank us for our purchase, it makes it more personal. New workout gear helps me stay motivated in my workout regime. Hope to see new merchandise in your collection.
Leave a comment