Meet Kaitlyn Stewart | Creator of Agave Swim

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

Hi Kaitlyn, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Since before I can remember, I’ve always known I wanted to start my own business and work for myself. The next step was figuring out what business to start. I’ve always had a desire for creating, a talent for sewing, and a love of the beach. So it became a no brainer to be able to combine these things, and start my business creating custom handmade swimwear. I hear from so many women that they have a hard time finding a bikini they feel confident in. And my main goal behind starting this brand was breaking that stigma, and creating pieces that everyone can feel comfortable wearing. I also wanted to create a brand that was more than just bikinis, I wanted to create a brand that helps women live life with no regrets. The beach is my happy place, and if I can make it another women’s happy place by creating swimwear that makes her feel good about herself, I’ve done my job. Agave Swim was founded on the basis of being the light, spreading positivity, and encouraging all women to live confidently. Being able to have a positive impact on the swimwear world, while also using my gifts and talents to make a living for myself has been the most fulfilling career path.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The main thing that sets Agave Swim apart from other brands, is that all of our suits are hand cut, hand sewn and completely made to order. We offer a wide range of styles and sizes, so that there is something for everyone. Because of the handmade nature, I am able to offer customizations to the suits in terms of coverage, torso length etc. Which is something you cannot get by buying a bikini from a store. By sourcing all fabrics and materials myself, I am able to be as sustainable as possible, while still offering great quality. Another unique thing about the brand is that all our printed fabrics are artwork from other independent creators. So we are able to support them through purchasing their designs and using it for our swimwear.

Agave Swim was a dream of mine for years before I finally took the leap. And getting to this point in business has not been easy as all, but I am grateful for that. Being able to learn to be disciplined and grow something completely on my own has been so rewarding. I’m a firm believer in the fact that the best lessons are learned by doing, and the only way to grow and achieve your dreams is to just get started! The rest will figure itself out if you continue to take it day by day and don’t quit!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The fact that we have amazing weather here in Orange County, I would plan for almost everything outside! When friends come to visit, renting a duffy boat is always at the top of my list! Grab some drinks, and little charcuterie and chill on water for a few hours. A beach day in Newport would be next! Rent some e-bikes and cruise around the city, lounge at the beach and grab lunch on the peninsula. Lido Village is also a must for a nice brunch and a little shopping. I went to college at Long Beach State. So would also have to incorporate a Long Beach day in there. Start with brunch at Schooner or Later. 2nd street in Belmont Shore has some amazing lunch and dinner spots. Also, a ton of cute boutiques and small businesses. Ballast Point is one of my absolute favorite places to catch the sunset and enjoy a beer or two. And the 2nd and PCH shopping center always has something fun to offer (if you’re lucky, you can catch a small business pop-up there).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A huge part of my success and the reason I had the bravery to start my own business is all thanks to my fiancé, family and friends. They are always there for me when a problem arises, and are the ones motivating me to keep going when things get tough. Also need to shoutout my previous jobs in the fashion industry. I’ve worked for multiple women owned fashion businesses, and through their stories and watching their businesses grow, I was able to realize that my dream can become a reality as well. I learned so many skills through those past jobs that I’ve taken with me and met some amazing coworkers that have become a great support system today.

Website: www.agaveswimco.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agave_swim/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgaveSwimCo

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@agave_swim