Episode Description
On this episode of the STL Bucket List Show, we sit down with David Stine and Stephanie Abbajay—owners of Stine Woodworking—to talk about their journey from Washington, D.C. to building one of the most respected custom woodworking brands in St. Louis.
David shares how he went from practicing law to pursuing woodworking full-time, while Stephanie breaks down how their partnership—both in marriage and business—helped turn a side hustle into a nationally recognized company. From early struggles breaking into the St. Louis market to working with some of the city’s top restaurants and designers, their story is all about persistence, craftsmanship, and betting on yourself.
We talk about what it really takes to build a business from the ground up, the importance of relationships, and how they’ve stayed relevant for nearly 30 years. They also dive into working as a husband-and-wife team, setting boundaries, and why staying in your lane is key to long-term success.
Plus, they share insights on the future of handmade craftsmanship in an AI-driven world, the power of the St. Louis community, and how their work continues to shape some of the city’s most iconic spaces.
From career pivots to building a legacy, this episode is packed with perspective for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone chasing meaningful work.
They discuss:
- Leaving a law career to pursue woodworking
- Building a business from a Midwest farm
- Breaking into the St. Louis market
- Working with top restaurants and local brands
- The power of relationships and networking
- Running a business as a married couple
- Setting boundaries between work and life
- Staying relevant in a digital and AI-driven world
- The future of craftsmanship and skilled trades
- Why “staying in your lane” matters
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📍 Recorded at Bucket List Podcast Studio, St. Louis, MO