Beyond the Ring: Livestock Shows Spark Creativity

by Megan Underwood, RAAA communications intern

A passion for showing livestock and the struggle to find agriculture clothing gave Addison Green Russell of Harlan, Kansas, the idea to make her own.

What started with a youth entrepreneurship challenge in seventh grade, gave Russell the opportunity to start a business with ideas from her own past experiences.

“I am very petite so I couldn’t find agriculture-inspired clothing at shows that would fit me, so I decided to make some of my own that would fit me and be for everyone,” explained Russell.

She started creating adult shirts and giving graphic design a try. She really enjoyed the graphic design aspect and had such a demand for her items, she expanded her business to include youth clothing and baby onesies.

After developing designs, Russell decided to set up at the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic to see what others thought of her business. The event was very successful, and she sold out of many sizes and designs. The event boosted her confidence to grow her business by expanding her product line to include more designs and sizes.

Russell wants to see her business grow and plans to make it happen by creating her own website and starting social media profiles. She has learned the importance of seeking opportunities to gain experience in areas of her business. She is currently completing an internship that focuses on web design that will give her the skills and knowledge needed for her own website.

One of the most important lessons for Russell, “Stay true to yourself because no one else can be you. I’ve struggled with this and if I can believe in myself and stay true to who I am, my business will be successful and continue to grow my confidence.”

During her junior Red Angus career, Russell has participated in showing and satellite events such as Young Stockman Program, JRA Round-Up and the North American Junior Red Angus Event. Each experience has taught her how to interact with people and take the lessons to use in customer service.

Russell has taken many opportunities to experience agriculture from production to business. Establishing her own business has given her more appreciation for entrepreneurs. She plans to continue her business as a side hustle in the years to come and will always be a part of agriculture.

“No matter where I end up in my future, my roots will always be in agriculture,” Russell proclaimed. B&B