We had the good fortune of connecting with Tori Putman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tori, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work, life balance has changed drastically since the launch of my swimwear line. Now I find myself eager to open my computer and get to work, even on the weekends or late at night. I find happiness and passion when I feel like I am making progress on a new goal or project and I will even cancel plans with family and friends to stay home and finish what I am currently pursuing for my brand.

While at times I feel more drained and overworked, I still find more happiness when I know that I am working towards my business goals than just going out for a bite or drink now.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business is a sustainable and ethical luxury swimwear brand. I am most proud of the background of details of my business. We use all recycled materials and eco printing with partnerships only among some of the most ethical manufacturers to ensure positive working conditions and fair treatment. The entire goal behind my brand is to help stop the fast fashion whirlwind that our culture has come to find “normal”. When you purchase a product from a sustainable brand, you are helping not only to reduce waste and pollution, but you are supporting brands that have an ethical background and the best interest in mind for our planet and the people who live on it.

I came up with the dream to be a fashion designer in first grade. While occasionally I strayed from this idea, as most do, through out my life, I ended up going to fashion school for college and decided I wanted to own my own brand some day. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to utilize the new amount of free time I had and pursue that dream. Although I had many, many set backs due to the pandemic that helped me to start my business, I am honestly thankful for the goals I have been able to accomplish because of it.

Starting a business from scratch is never easy, especially when you are a mid-twenties, solo entrepreneur that also works full time during a global pandemic. Navigating the time between my current job, personal life, health and starting my dream business was tough, but 100% worth it in all ways. Even though I have many more goals to acchieve, I am still proud of myself for staying true to the values I wanted to involve in my brand and the milestones I have already reached.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Naples, Florida so this may not apply to me location-wise. However, if someone was coming to visit me in Florida these would be my recommendations.

– Dinner and drinks at Seed to Table: a massive grocery store complete with 6 bars and multiple food stands with the freshest ingredients. Each night boasts a live band and dancing complete with a disco ball overlooking the produce section. Truly, a sight to see.

– Beach Day with drinks at the Naples Grande hotel.

– Rooftop Happy Hour at the JW Marriot beachfront.

– Boozy brunch and a walk at M Waterfront Grille to watch the dolphins

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to shoutout my father, Tim, for helping me to launch my business and providing advice on how to go about the process of nitty gritty things such as licenses, taxes and even banking. Without him I would have been in over my head.

I also want to shoutout my mother, Marilyn. She has provided more support, patience and helps to calm me down when I feel overwhelmed and like I am failing. I would in no way be able to continue to push myself like I do if it wasn’t for her constant belief in me.

Website: torkiniswimwear.com

Instagram: instagram.com/torkiniswimwear/

Facebook: facebook.com/torkiniswimwear/

Youtube: youtube.com/torkiniswimwear/

Other: Pinterest: pinterest.com/torkiniswimwear/

Image Credits
For the most amazing images and for capturing my brands story perfectly: Zachary Clark

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.