THE BACKSTORY
**About Barbells & Ponytails**
Barbells & Ponytails is all about celebrating the fierce and fabulous fitness enthusiast in every woman. Whether you’re a lifter, a runner, a yoga lover, or anything in between – we’ve got you covered. We champion inclusivity, so whatever your age, size, or fitness preference, you belong here. Oh, and ponytails? Totally optional.
**Meet 'E' – The Heart Behind B&P**
Hello there! I'm Elisa, but feel free to call me 'E'. Living in sunny Tampa, FL, I’m surrounded by the love and chaos of my three dogs, my wonderful daughter, two step-kids and husband. While I'm not one to chase the spotlight (hello, social anxiety!), I believe it's essential for you to know the person and passion behind the brand.
**Our Origin Story**
Back in 2012, I stumbled upon CrossFit and, no exaggeration, it changed my life. At a point where I felt trapped in an unhealthy, emotionally abusive relationship, CrossFit infused me with strength, both physically and mentally. It was my confidence booster, my escape, and eventually, my springboard to break free.
The following year, I embarked on a new journey, founding a CrossFit gym. While scouting for empowering fitness wear, I faced a stark lack of appealing options. It wasn't about pinks or clichés. It was about feeling empowered. And just like that, the idea for B&P sparked. Investing my last $300 into a design concept, I embarked on a journey to create apparel that made women feel audaciously confident. Fast forward, and here we are, almost 10 years into making women feel like the badasses they truly are.
**Our Mission**
At Barbells & Ponytails, we're not just selling fitness gear. We're promoting a way of life, an ethos. We want every woman to experience the transformative power of finding her strength, just like I did with my first brush with a barbell. It’s not just about lifting weights; it's about uplifting spirits.
Our future is filled with big dreams for B&P, and for the vibrant community we're building. So, keep your eyes peeled - we’re only getting started.
With gratitude and grit,
Elisa Tanner
P.S. Every purchase you make fuels a dream, supports a woman-owned small business, and stands against faceless corporations. Your belief in B&P propels our vision forward, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
While I’m not a huge crossfit girl, I love lifting and exercising. It is the best mental and physical therapy I’ve ever had. I started my journey around 2011. I’d always been active but after year and years of toxic relationships I needed something that was " just mine" and could build me up. I have trained and have become a NASM instructor. I want to continue to build me and other women like me. You have my support from Memphis Tn.
I just got my first order from your company. I love the items I bought. They are very high quality, and I will be buying again from you. I am a survivor of abuse first from my parents, and then from my ex. I am currently with the love of my life my husband and he is amazing. We have two kids and one of them is a daughter. I love supporting women-owned businesses and lifting other women up. I am teaching both my kids that they should never accept abuse in any form. I am a Muay Thai Martial artist. I also lift heavy. I too had to fight to get out of my abusive relationship. I understand that feeling of empowerment when you learn you can do something. I feel that way even in my Muay Thai. I will never let another person, man or woman put their hands on me again.
Thank you for building this company. The products you make, make me smile, make me laugh, and make me happy. I hope you keep inspiring women all over the world and being the awesome person you are.
You rock! I’m from your tribe of abuse. 13 years and I k ew when my daughter was born I had to get out. It took 4 more years but it was done! You have my support as a mom and step mom of 6.
Life is too short to live in the past. People will do what they want regardless of the outcome. U choose happiness and positivity! You Rock
Jamie
Hi Elisa, I follow your page since almost two years ago I think, and I love it!! I never read your story and I am impressed! I identify with it so much (CrossFit changed my life too). I have a 5 and 10 y.o. Boys and a husband but in my case, I was out of shape, and struggled so much to lose my baby fat I felt ugly and unhappy. I lost all the extra weight, I’m in the best shape I have ever been, I am in love with barbells and the gym in general and the level of confidence I gained is amazing.
It’s a joy to explore your merchandise and I wanted to say thank you for offering other options. Have a great day and stay healthy.
Getting more into CrossFit and lifting – with the pandemic I’ve finally created a good space where I can feel comfortable being ME and focusing on strength. I stumbled upon your brand on Instagram – and I am hooked. Even more so now reading the backstory. You have a customer for life – and will always support B&P’s mission.
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