From falling in love with golf in high school to building a global presence as a professional golfer and content creator, Stephanie Gibri has carved out a unique path in the game.
A San Jose State alum, she’s blended her competitive spirit with a creative passion for storytelling, traveling the world to highlight golf destinations, cultures and experiences through her social platforms. Along the way, she’s launched her own lifestyle brand, Aced It Co., and collaborated with courses like Poppy Hills to bring the essence of golf beyond the fairways. In fact, you can purchase Gibri’s custom, limited-edition Poppy Hills candle exclusively in the Poppy Hills Golf Shop!
We caught up with Gibri to talk about her journey, her favorite golf moments and why she believes the game is more welcoming than ever.
Question: How did you get into golf? And how did you become an influencer?
Stephanie Gibri: I actually got into golf a little later than most — in high school. I quickly fell in love with the creativity of the game, especially all the different ways you can escape trouble out of the trees. At the time, my school only had a boys’ varsity team, but by the time I graduated, a few other girls had joined and they were able to launch a girls’ team shortly after. After attending San Jose State, I decided to pursue a professional golf career. Along that journey, I naturally began building a social media presence, sharing my experiences on the course and while traveling. That led to invitations from tourism boards, resorts, golf courses, and events — and I realized I loved showcasing golf destinations and cultures around the world just as much as I loved competing. That’s really how my role as a golf creator and influencer came to life.
Q: What is your favorite event you have ever played in?
SG: I love playing in Pro-Ams and celebrity charity events. They combine the fun and competitive side of golf with the opportunity to meet incredible people and play for a meaningful cause.
Q: What is your favorite course?
SG: That’s always such a tough question because I’ve been fortunate to play so many amazing courses around the world. But if I had to choose, I’d say the courses at Pebble Beach are at the top of my list — especially The Links at Spanish Bay. I love how it combines stunning ocean views with that true links-style feel.
Q: Most memorable golf trip?
SG: A golf tour through Egypt has to be at the top. Not only did I get to play incredible courses and visit some of the most iconic historical sites in the world, but being able to experience it in the country where my family is from made it even more special.
Q: How has golf evolved, especially for women?
SG: Golf has become so much more accessible — both in the U.S. and internationally. We’re seeing more women on the course, more representation in media, and greater opportunities to play. It feels like the game is finally starting to reflect the diversity of people who love it, which is really inspiring.
Q: Why do you think it’s important for golfers to have a Handicap Index?
SG: It’s a valuable tool to track your progress over time and to help you play the game on a level field with others. It also guides you on things like what tees you should be playing from, which makes the game more enjoyable and fair. Plus, it’s a fun way to log all the courses you’ve played.
Q: What is the most important thing in your golf bag?
SG: Aside from my clubs, definitely sunscreen! We spend so many hours in the sun that protecting your skin is just as important as working on your swing.
Q: What are some of your favorite brands to work with and why?
SG: Tourism boards are some of my favorites because those partnerships allow me to tell a bigger story. It’s not just about the golf course itself — it’s about the culture, the people, the food, and the experience of that destination. I love being able to bring that full picture to life for others.
Q: What is your favorite kind of content to make and what content does the best?
SG: I really enjoy creating content that has a storyline — something that starts at home and takes people all the way to the course or destination. When I travel, I personally look for videos about golf in the country I’m visiting because it helps set expectations and builds excitement. That’s why I focus on making content that’s both informative and entertaining.
Q: Tell us about your company Aced It Co.
SG: Aced It Co. is a golf-inspired lifestyle brand I created to extend the love of the game beyond the course. Our signature products are golf candles, each uniquely crafted to capture different essences of the game or even a specific course. One of my favorite projects was our collaboration with Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, where we designed a candle inspired by the course itself. It gave golfers a special way to bring the scent and spirit of Poppy Hills home with them. For me, Aced It Co. is about creating products that aren’t just lifestyle pieces, but personal connections to the game we love.
Q: Any advice for those new to golf or those wanting to get more into golf?
SG: Don’t be intimidated! Golf can feel overwhelming at first, but there are more opportunities and entry points than you think. Whether it’s starting with lessons, going to the driving range with friends, or playing shorter courses, just take it step by step. Everyone is on their own journey with the game, and the best part is that it’s something you can play and enjoy for a lifetime.