Libby Goetz shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Libby , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
100% Wandering.
I taught myself to sew when I was pregnant with my daughter. I didn’t have a plan or a clear goal for where it would take me — I just made whatever I felt like at the moment. Over time, I kept learning, experimenting, and creating new things. Six years later, I’ve grown busier and more successful than I ever expected. Most days, my plans change from what I imagined the night before. Some of my favorite creations started as ideas that didn’t even exist a few hours earlier. I always say I am going to more organized and set more plans but I always end up going a different route but it always feels like the right one when I am going through it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Libby Goetz, the creator behind Stitch by Libby.
It’s a handmade boutique featuring women’s accessories and children’s items. I discovered early on that I don’t love taking custom orders. I prefer to create whatever I’m inspired to make that day. Because of that, I sell mainly in person at pop-up events and through local shops.
If someone’s looking for something specific, I’m always happy to help when I can, but I don’t usually advertise custom work. I love doing things this way because it lets me use what I already have in my sewing room, which means less waste and more creativity.
If you see something you love, grab it while you can, there’s a good chance I won’t make a second one in that same print or pattern! My inventory has no set rhythm or routine, but don’t worry if you haven’t caught me at a pop-up, I always have plenty of inventory waiting for you to explore.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mom!
She was always so positive and proud of me, even when I felt like I was barely doing anything. My mom passed away 10 months ago after being sick for several years, and that loss really changed the way I think about things.
Since I no longer have her here to gush over my accomplishments, I’ve had to take on that role myself, learning to build confidence from within and celebrate my own wins. Surprisingly, I think I’m doing a pretty good job at it! Still, I wish I could call her and tell her about the little (or big) things I’ve accomplished, just to hear her positive reaction one more time.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Starting.
The fear of starting something new and not being good at it or embarrassing myself always held me back, especially when I was younger. Starting Stitch by Libby pushed me to face those fears head-on. I don’t exactly have a payroll to hire people for the roles I’m not great at 😂 so I’ve had to learn and do it all myself. I look back at certain things and was like “wow that was bad” but at least I started and is always trying to improve.
Slowly but surely, I’ve been working on the things I know I need to improve and getting better along the way. When you’re in charge of your own business and also the only employee it’s easy to put certain things off. But I’ve learned that starting, even when it’s scary or uncomfortable, is always the most important step but it’s still something I struggle with.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes!
I wouldn’t be doing this if I couldn’t be myself, that’s the best part of working for yourself. No one’s telling me what to wear, what to say, what to make, or what to do next. I get to do things my way and stay true to who I am through it all.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Since I started this journey, I’ve always felt excited about what I do. The feeling of someone buying something you made with your own hands never gets old. Seeing my products being worn out in public is the best kind of surprise — it’s such a proud, happy moment every time. Each year, I find myself even more excited about how Stitch by Libby continues to grow and evolve. I don’t see that ever changing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @stitchbylibby
