Katie Byrnes is the founder of Jayebird Sport, a company that aims to creates functional and beautiful golf apparel for women.
“I wanted our customers to feel confident golfing in pieces that could transition effortlessly from tee time into everyday life. Jayebird designs are inspired by classic sportswear, but engineered to keep up with the modern athlete. I’ve loved seeing our pieces out on the golf course or tennis and pickleball courts, but also being worn for day to day errands, dates, and beyond!”
AZF: What is your “life motto”?
KB: “It’s all in the details! Noticing the little things creates opportunities for gratitude and connection in my personal life. In my professional life, that attention to detail has helped me build a business and products that I’m genuinely proud of, down to the last stitch.”
AZF: Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur? If not, when did you realize that it was the right path for you?
KB: “Sports, especially golf, have been a huge part of my life from a young age, and I’ve always had ideas for the kind of apparel I’d love to wear on the course. When I moved to Hong Kong in 2018 I had immediate access to incredible manufacturing options. I started putting the pieces together and decided that rather than continuing my search for the perfect sportswear, I could dream up my own and make it a reality!”
AZF: How do you feel best supported?
KB: “Chatting with other entrepreneurs and businesswomen. This community is so open and willing to share what’s worked for them and honest about what hasn’t.”
AZF: What motivates you to keep going amidst the challenges that come with being an entrepreneur?
KB: “I realized early on that a lot of women are intimidated by golf…it can definitely feel like a boy’s club! I’m really motivated by the idea of empowering women to feel confident stepping onto the course and enjoying the sport. Seeing amazing female athletes sporting Jayebird designs while they’re golfing always renews my excitement for bringing our sportswear to the market.”
AZF: Describe your perfect Saturday morning.
KB: “You probably already guessed this…I’d be hitting the golf course bright and early for a casual round with friends followed by brunch at Chelsea’s Kitchen, I can’t resist their tacos!”
AZF: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young entrepreneur who is just starting out?
KB: “Lean in to a community like Foundress! The knowledge you gain from other entrepreneurs is invaluable and also makes you feel less alone!”
AZF: What makes you most excited about being an entrepreneur?
KB: “I love that when I dream up a way to improve an item, I have the freedom and creative control to make it happen. I personally test and play in every piece we carry, so if I notice even a small tweak that could make it better, I jump right back into design and start problem solving. It’s my favorite kind of puzzle…and so rewarding when I see the Jayebird shop full of pieces that I’m incredibly proud of!”
Follow the Karie Byrnes Barr on Instagram and LinkedIn or visit the Jaybird Sport website for more information.
About The Foundress
The Foundress is a creative community of female entrepreneurs established by Coley Arnold and Lindsey Holt, owners of Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market. The women-led networking group currently has over 120 members who receive exclusive access to mentorship from experienced female entrepreneurs and industry leaders; community gatherings that feature expert speakers and the opportunity to connect with like-minded women; as well as monthly Mastermind Groups where members can brainstorm and collaborate together.
Every Friday AZF will spotlight a member of The Foundress and her business in the online series Foundress Fridays. Learn more about The Foundress and join the community at www.foundress.co.
