Meet Hunter Mallory

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

Hi Hunter, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I moved back to Florida, I made it my goal to see both the east and west coast. I traveled through all of the beach towns, stopping at many of the local surf shops. I had a hard time finding jewelry that spoke to me, and I wanted that laidback neutral feel. After visiting Florida Oceanographic Center, I had the idea to create jewelry that gives back to these organizations that support ocean conservation and our local wildlife. I was able to find natural materials to work with such as coconut shell, sea glass, freshwater pearls, and shells that embodied that boho surfer style that I was looking for. My idea was to create everyday styles that bring the coastal feeling with you. I started out small with a couple of pieces to get my business started, and after a few months of growing I began to reach out to these organizations in hopes that they would give me a chance to create something special for them.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It took awhile in the beginning to develop my own style and really set my business apart from the rest. I really lean into the use of natural materials, and create a lot of my pieces on waterproof waxed cord, making them the perfect option for ocean adventures. What really sets us apart is our call to action for coral conservation and wildlife preservation. We are currently partnered with four nonprofits, creating unique $10 sets that embody the organization’s mission, and 5% of each sale goes back towards their efforts.

We create both men’s and women’s styles, and are currently in 15 retail locations across the US. At first the challenge was creating jewelry that stands out in the world of coastal accessories. By doing local markets, I was able to test different styles and designs to see what was catching people’s attention. I’ve learned to research and stay ahead of the trends, and to always be open to connect with others who are a part of the coastal retail business.

We are all a coastal soul, embodying the unwavering nature of the deep blue. Our handmade pieces are made as a reminder to embrace the highs of life with gratitude, and to push through the lows with resilience. We work hard to create one of a kind pieces that make you want to fill your day with sun-soaked adventures, or simply embrace your laid back surfer vibes. Ensuring quality without the need to empty your wallet is our way of bringing the ocean to you. Most importantly, our calling to connect with our community and fellow sun-seekers is the reason for it all.

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?
I love a good drive around Florida! For a week long trip, I would definitely start in the west coast. Going to Manasota Beach is a must stop, and it so fun to see friends find shark teeth for the first time. I would definitely have to stop by Anna Maria Island and grab lunch from their Island Cafe. On the way over to the east coast I would have to stop in Orlando and walk around Old Town. I love Fort Pierce Inlet State Park. It is the perfect place for paddle boarding in the mangroves, and the beach is full of surfers. My last stop would be Jensen Beach, and a trip to Sunrise Surf Shop!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Where should I start?! Of course my family and friends were there at the beginning, encouraging me to keep trying and giving me the hard criticism I needed to grow. From my first market I met Jessica Marie, owner of Hidden Gem Consignment in Lakeland. She invited me to put my product in her store, my first retail location, and now we are constantly restocking our shelves. I would also like to shoutout the team at Friends Of Our Florida Reefs, especially Melissa Sathe, for showing unwavering support for my small business and including me in local events.

Website: https://www.haltwear.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haltwear?igsh=aHp5dndxZHd0ZDFv&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B4BWRvQaa/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haltwear?_t=ZP-8xIDOx7vBbr&_r=1