Meet the Team: Business Development Associate Julia Ballard
Julia is the most recent hire at GOAT, joining the team last September as a Business Development Associate.
She began her career in a business development role at the global e-commerce company Wayfair in Boston, next door to her hometown of Cambridge, MA. She then moved to New Orleans after graduating from the University of Redlands in California.
Julia has worked with several local businesses over the years, establishing her background in marketing, business development, community building, and project management. She also has deep-rooted ties to the New Orleans creative community through her role as Editor-In-Chief of the entrepreneur-focused publication Silicon Bayou News.
When she’s not working or planning her next travel adventure, you can find Julia exploring the Big Easy with her husband and dogs. Connect with Julia on Instagram and LinkedIn and keep reading to get to know her better:
Who is your favorite architect and/or designer?
Sarah Sherman Samuel, founder of the multi-disciplinary design studio SSS Design. I started following her on Instagram several years ago when she and her family decided to move from Los Angeles to Michigan and subsequently completely reimagine their new home, a 1980s postmodern fixer-upper.
What would be your dream project?
As the only non designer on the team, I’m answering this question as a literal dreamer and not from experience. My dream project would be to reimagine an entire empty city block in New Orleans.
What design trend do you hope makes a comeback?
My design trend did not necessarily ever go out of style, but it would be great to see more of it in 2023: meaningful objects. My home is filled with meaningful objects I’ve curated over time that make the space uniquely mine. Some of my favorites include art passed down from family, vintage pedestal bowls from California, a bar cart with smoked glassware from the 70s, and a mid-century stool designed by Michael Thonet that I thrifted in New Orleans.
What topic could you give an hour-long presentation on with no preparation?
GOAT’s Business Development Associate Julia Ballard with one of her dogs, Sterling.
Dog safety. I have three dogs and have learned a lot over the years about what to do and what not to do to keep them happy and healthy.
What is your favorite local hangout?
Audubon Park for picnics and long walks. Bacchanal for wine, small plates, and live music.
If someone were visiting the city for the first time, what neighborhood would you take them to first and why?
The Garden District. I’ve lived in New Orleans for over a decade and always recommend walking around the historic neighborhood and taking in the grand homes and unique architectural styles. There are also great local shops and restaurants along Magazine Street.
What’s your favorite hobby right now? What hobby have you always wanted to take up?
Cooking is always a favorite hobby. I like to use recipes for inspiration and then put my own twist on each dish. I’ve always been interested in upcycling furniture and thrifted finds and would like to spend more time on it.
What’s your most used emoji?
😂