Golf Participation

Blair Roemer, founder of Beldrie. (Credit: Courtesy of Amanda Pile) Blair Roemer picked up golf five years ago, and became instantly hooked. As she got more serious about her golf game, she began to notice that there weren’t many apparel lines that designed golf wear exclusively for women. Worse, existing products on the market at the time were ill-fitting, clunky or decidedly unstylish. In 2023, Roemer launched Beldrie, her own female golf apparel line, to offer fellow women golfers the sort of chic, high-performance gear she’d sought for herself. Today, the Charlotte, North Carolina-based business owner is focused on growing women’s participation in her favorite sport – while at the same time outfitting them in the best possible attire for play. Editor’s Note: Beldrie has been named to The Story Exchange’s 2024 list of 10 Brilliant Business Ideas. How is your business different from others in your industry? We make modern, thoughtfully designed golf apparel at an affordable price. We bridge the gap between athleisure and high-performance golf apparel by blending style and comfort with golf-specific features. Tell us about your biggest success so far. Growing my social media following to 2,800 followers pre-launch. Driving women's participation in golf. Creating golf apparel that gives them the confidence to take part. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? Since the conception of this brand, I've had to change its name three times due to trademark issues. The most recent time, I received a demand letter from Ann Taylor Loft. At last, I changed the name for the third and final time this January – following a robust trademark search. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? When I was laid off from Facebook last June, I made the decision to go all-in on Beldrie. This decision has been both fruitful and challenging – but ultimately, I get to wake up every day and be creative with a business idea that inspires and motivates me. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? If you have a real vision and you believe in it, go for it. People will tell you that you can't do it, or that it will be too hard – just stay focused on your goal. How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? I go back to my “why” – which, in my case, is driving women's participation in golf. If I can be inspired by a mission that resonates with women, it's worth it to me. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? Whatever the latest hit is from Taylor Swift. I love her. Who is your most important role model? My late grandmother. Her innate ability to handle all life's challenges with grace inspires me in my rather challenging entrepreneurial journey. ◼ Instagram: @Beldrie Share your story! Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-upWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

Golf Participation

Golfwear for the Girls

The Story Exchange

Follow