Today we’d like to introduce you to Wade Green. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Founded in 2015, we started Zilker Belts after being inspired by the passion, pride, and craftsmanship found in Argentina. My Co-Founder Hill Shands and I knew that the vibrant colors, hand-stitched patterns, and world-class leather belonged back home in Texas and beyond. Working with our partners in Argentina, we sourced the finest material, learned the intricate manufacturing process, and have since created over 20 different styles. Our belts and dog collars are wearable works of art that draw inspiration from the traditional gaucho style and some of our favorite local icons like Deep Eddy, Antone’s, Willie, Austin City Limits, and Austin FC.
What began as a moonlighting venture became a full-time opportunity a couple of years ago. Having more time to dedicate to growing the brand has been a lot of fun and afforded the ability to work on some new product lines, collaborations with other brands, and more partnerships in the community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I haven’t heard of too many entrepreneurial ventures that have been smooth roads from the start, but it certainly has been a fun ride! Some of the early challenges were simply rooted in the fact that it was a side business. Balancing a demanding and travel-intensive corporate job with growing a brand you love and believe in certainly comes with its challenges. Finally quitting that corporate job and going full time was a moment to celebrate in September of 2019, and then was soon followed by COVID just a few months later. That also came with some struggle, as we and the rest of the world tried to figure out how to keep fighting on against the backdrop of a pandemic. Overall though the challenges have helped shape who we’ve become today as a business.
We’ve been impressed with Zilker Belts, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our business is rooted in handmade craftsmanship, creativity, and self-expression. We offer truly world-class quality products that will provide some fun, colorful accents to your life. Whether one of our many hand-sewn belts, a bolo tie, leather Apple watchband, or even a dog collar for your pup, we have something you’ll love.
While our primary product lines come from our partners and good friends in Buenos Aires, we’re deeply rooted in Austin. From the local partnerships with Austin City Limits and Austin FC to the brand partnerships like our recent bag collaboration with Old Enfield Supply, we love supporting and being a part of this community. The entrepreneurial spirit, outdoors activities, live music, BBQ, and inspiring people all feed our soul and help inform the brand we’ve become.
Pricing:
- Belts $115-125
- Dog Collars $65
- Bolo Ties $145
- Weekender Bags $195
Contact Info:
- Email: howdy@zilkerbelts.com
- Website: www.zilkerbelts.com
- Instagram: @zilkerbelts
- Facebook: facebook.com/zilkerbelts
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHl5W2ukB5QHGE07iY0Ccug
