Today we’d like to introduce you to Hunter Mallory
Hi Hunter, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The start of HALT, High And Low Tide, came from my years of traveling. I had moved to different states during college and was able to connect with people from all over. I had lived in Florida years before, and had always known I would be back in the future. Before settling down once again in the Sunshine State, I adventured down the East coast and made my way back up the west coast, checking out the little beach towns and cool surf shops. My mom was always stopping in the little gift shops looking for beachy jewelry, but a lot of the stuff she would buy would fall apart in the ocean or simply break. From then I decided I wanted to make a couple of pieces for her and I to wear, and from there I became obsessed with jewelry making! I am self taught, and it took many months for me to not only find my own style but to also learn how to make jewelry that’s ready for any outdoor adventure. After creating a large collection of styles, I decided to make HALT official and launched my business. We have been operating for just under a year, and have already had the opportunity to partner with three local nonprofits, see our products on retail shelving, and make waves in our local markets.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course there was trial and error, but the journey of creating this business was quite natural to me. While traveling I was a bartender after my college classes, so I was constantly talking to locals and people from all over. I soon realized that we all experience the ever changing tides of life, and the feelings that come in those moments are known by us all. We are all a coastal soul in this sense, embodying the unwavering nature of the deep blue. The main struggle from there was the overall creation of one of a kind pieces, that people from all over would feel a connection to. The learning curve of creating a business from start to finish was also an amazing learning experience.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
From the beginning, my main focus was jewelry. I created a line of boho surfer jewelry made from natural materials such as coconut shell, freshwater pearls, shells, and natural gemstones on waterproof waxed cord, making them the perfect pieces for your day out on the water. I then added in our stainless steel collection and 18K gold plated steel styles to create higher end pieces. Everything is beaded and handmade by me, and I try to source our materials from local suppliers. I have men’s and women’s styles, as well as embroidered beach bags, coastal gift sets, and car accessories.
Our business is expanding rapidly, and I have now added a heat press and screen printing tools to my arsenal for creating some coastal tees and other clothing products. I have also bought a second business to merge with HALT, which includes a large printing machine to do stickers, banners, and wall art for not only my brand but hopefully for other small businesses as well.
I am most proud of our partnership with local nonprofits. I create a pair of bracelets for the organizations, and 5% of each purchase goes towards their conservation efforts. Our first collaboration was with Florida Oceanographic Society, and from that point on I wanted to continue to work with these organizations who support ocean conservation and coral restoration. I then went on to work with The Reef Institute and Friends of Our Florida Reefs, getting a private tour of their facilities and gaining amazing insight on the efforts taken to preserve local wildlife. I am currently creating raffle prizes for the Annual Reef Cleanup in south Florida, which is an amazing opportunity for the diving community to come together for a great cause.
What makes HALT stand out is our values in creating unique handmade pieces and our dedicated mission to support local ocean conservation efforts. We are all about having a green mindset, volunteering our time to support clean beaches and healthy waters.
Our mantra here is character, quality, and connection. For us, it’s all about unlocking that coastal soul within you. 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.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I was always an outdoors kid. I lived on a large farm in the countryside of our town in Pennsylvania, and had to learn to care for all kinds of animals and our large garden. I was always in love with art and staying active.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.haltwear.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haltwear?igsh=aHp5dndxZHd0ZDFv&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18fq9rfc7J/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@haltwear?_t=ZP-8uchZ3ziiXX&_r=1
