Always Be Swooping: Wear Boldly & Drink Wisely
Bras, bitters, and bodysuits; at first an unlikely trio, but in actuality, a flawless combination. Always Be Swooping is committed to creating unique, small-batch, and Alaskan items in an effort to make their dream of turning a “craft” into a “product” from Chugiak, AK.
When we asked owner Virginia Peterson what inspired her to start her small business she shared, “There is nobody out there like us. The bra industry has come a long way, but there is still room to make a product that makes women feel sexy, yet fun and have comfort doing it.” Adding, “Our bitters are forged locally and we like to think it provides a little Alaska love to any creation.” From unique and comfortable bras and bodysuits to delightful bitters that complement just about any cocktail recipe out there, the alliteration and combination were too good to resist, and Always Be Swooping was crafted from genuine passion and talent for their craft.
In the start-up phase, Peterson connected with Business Advisor, Julie Nelson, at the Alaska SBDC to iron out the details. She explained, “I wouldn’t be where I am without the help of the Alaska SBDC. Julie has helped me to keep my head on straight, provided suggestions, she has helped me prioritize, and become more goal-oriented. Julie has been that light of encouragement that has helped me to not give up!”
From that, starting and growing a small business is no easy feat and Peterson is thankful to be able to hire two employees, Tanya and Grace, to bring further magic and brilliance to the business. Speaking to the heart about her team, she shared, “Tanya with her creativity and passion for cocktails works on the bitters. Grace with her eye for detail has been helping with the sewing. I wouldn’t be able to do it without the help from these two!”
The tight-knit team has no plans to slow down anytime soon either. Considering the future Peterson mused, “We are always trying to perfect our bras, add more styles, and new patterns. Bodysuits…..more bodysuits! We do our best to think outside the box, and provide useful products that celebrate and humanize the people who make them and the people who use them.”
From “Flowered Flamingo” to “Solid Gold” hand-crafted bras, Rhubarb, Coffee Hazelnut, and Spruce Tip bitters, and stretchy and cheeky bodysuits, there is a gift for you or someone you adore to be found at Always Be Swooping.
Connect with the team on Instagram, Facebook, and online at https://www.alwaysbeswooping.com/
