Today we’d like to introduce you to Mari Suyama.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My journey as an entrepreneur spawned from my passion for travel and the nomadic lifestyle. My first taste of solo travel at age 14 changed my perspective on what I wanted to be when I grew up. Instead, I started asking myself what experiences I wanted to have when I grew up.
I knew I wanted a life of freedom and adventure. Launching a swimwear brand alongside my mother, not only cured my wanderlust, but it brought together all aspects of my life. I now share my time between Miami, Toronto, Hawaii and Tulum—lucky to call the beach my office.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
By nature, I seek out adventure, unusual and challenging situations. I have always chosen the path of most resistance—maybe call it my vice, but it’s how I’ve learned to grow as a human being and as a business owner. I have built businesses and lived a life with very little resources which in the end trained myself to become my best resource.
In my thirty-something years, I have experienced a lifetime’s worth of what many people would claim are farfetched stories of trials and tribulations, but those stories are all too real. I love and appreciate all the challenges and obstacles I’ve experienced because I made something good out of all of them. Starting Noa Kai Swimwear was an idea that came from a time of struggle. Don’t all good things?
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Noa Kai Swimwear – what should we know?
Noa Kai’s versatile, timeless and clean swimsuit designs allow travelers to consume smarter, pack lighter and always look great. We are on a mission to shake the traditional notion of ‘seasons’ by creating essential pieces that are true staples for any travel wardrobe no matter what time of year it is. We consider ourselves the basic white tee or little black dress of swimwear—effortless and essential.
Noa Kai is swimwear for the wanderers out there who need classic everyday pieces versatile enough to take around the world and back. We design approachable luxury essentials easily layered, mixed and matched, and accessorized for smarter travel.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I got my business sense from my father who recently passed away. I still find myself asking what he would do in certain situations—and when I think like him, I come up with clear, logical ideas.
The creativity behind Noa Kai comes from my mother who is my other half, my business partner. Together we brainstorm, travel, shoot, write, design, laugh, explore and we inspire each other. We infuse our personalities into our brand.
Our swimsuit designs are also inspired by our travels and the beautiful women we meet along the way. We name our designs after these women and their stories are very much a part of who we are and what we do.
Pricing:
- One Piece Swimsuits $129 – $169
- Bikini Tops $49 – $62
- Bikini Bottoms $49 – $62
Contact Info:
- Website: www.noakaiswimwear.com
- Phone: 305-409-6208
- Email: hello@noakaiswimwear.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noakaiswimwear
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noakaiswimwear
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/noakaiswimwear/
Image Credit:
Amadeo Agis and Joel Terron
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