We recently had the chance to connect with Emily Bordner and have shared our conversation below.
Emily, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I felt true joy was just this past weekend. My husband and I, along with seven other couples, rented a house in Orrick, Missouri—no kids, no schedules, no stress.
It was so refreshing to be surrounded by good company and peaceful energy. My computer actually died (a blessing in disguise), and the Wi-Fi was pretty terrible, so I couldn’t work even if I wanted to. That forced me to slow down, settle in, and truly relax.
I pretty much lived in pajamas the entire weekend. We spent three nights together playing endless games, eating amazing food, soaking up the sunshine, and laughing until our cheeks hurt. I got to really connect with people I don’t usually get extended time with, and it filled my heart in the best way.
It felt so good that I want to create more moments like that—more peace, more connection, more stillness. Highly recommend.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Emily Bordner, and I’m the founder and creative force behind EB and Co.—a Kansas City–based accessories brand known for modern, approachable pieces that empower women to express their individuality.
My journey began in 2012 when I couldn’t find the perfect handbag—something modern, simple, affordable, yet high-quality. So, I decided to create my own. What started as a personal project quickly caught attention through pop-up shops and online sales, eventually blossoming into the brand you see today.
What EB and Co. Is All About:
Founded & Locally Rooted – EB and Co. is deeply woven into Kansas City culture. Every custom piece is designed with individuality, confidence, and quality in mind.
Chic, Playful Style – From statement earrings and necklaces to sleek handbags and hair clips, we blend modern trends with timeless, unique flair.
Kansas City Collection & Charm Bars – We celebrate local pride with KC-themed designs and sport-inspired charm bars—perfect for honoring your favorite teams and events.
Customer-Centered Perks – EB Rewards, free shipping, and easy returns make the experience just as joyful as the products themselves.
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?
Before EB and Co., my twenties were a whirlwind of creativity and experimentation. I was constantly building—side hustle on top of side hustle. I made and sold perfume, crafted kids’ toys, sold gym equipment, even baked vegan cookies.
Then one night, my friend Gracie asked me, “Why don’t you go to business school?” The thought had never crossed my mind—but it made perfect sense. The following summer, I started my MBA program, and from there… the rest is history.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
When I had to close my store out South, I was really disappointed. It had been on my dream list for years to have a presence there—everyone said that’s where the money was. But once I was actually in that location, I quickly realized that wasn’t the case. There was no way to foresee it at the time, and it ended up being a hard but valuable lesson.
What it taught me was priceless: take my time, follow my gut, and do thorough due diligence when selecting a space. How’s the foot traffic? What’s the parking situation? Are there similar businesses nearby that are thriving?
So much of owning a small business is “trying things on” to see if they fit. That closure was one of the hardest moments in my 12 years in business—and I’ll be honest, I felt embarrassed and ashamed. But at the end of the day, the store couldn’t sustain itself. And when the numbers don’t work, it becomes a clear business decision.
In the end, it’s about protecting and supporting myself, my family, my employees, my vendors, and my clients. We simply can’t keep an unsustainable, cash-draining location. As tough as it was, that experience made me stronger and far more intentional about every retail decision I make moving forward.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think a common misconception in business is “bigger is better.” I’ve had three stores, and I’ve had one store—and honestly, it’s about what feels best for you and supports the kind of day-to-day life you want. I definitely feel the pressure to grow every year and exceed expectations, but growth comes with a price: your time, your energy, and the fullness of your plate.
My younger self probably would’ve wanted to expand more aggressively. But in the past couple of years, I’ve embraced more balance. It’s given me space to focus on other projects, like my new book. And here’s the truth: bigger doesn’t always mean more profit. Some of the largest businesses I know struggle to make any profit at all, while smaller ones can be incredibly profitable. It depends on so many factors. Growing too big, too fast—especially if it costs you your happiness, patience, or peace of mind—just isn’t worth it.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I’m also especially sensitive to people’s energy. About 10 years ago, I started paying close attention to how I felt after spending time with someone or reflecting on a relationship. That led me to reevaluate who I surrounded myself with—letting go of certain connections and holding on tightly to the ones that felt supportive and genuine.
My friends are some of the most important relationships in my life. I want to support them as much as they support me. I try to release any negative, competitive energy and focus on uplifting others—especially other small business owners and people chasing their own dreams.
That’s one of the reasons I spent so much time writing this year. I wanted to find a way to give back, not just by donating a portion of sales, but by sharing something from my heart that could inspire, encourage, and connect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ebandcompany.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eb.and.co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ebkcmo/
Image Credits
Family photos courtesy of Jane Kortright
