Rising Stars: Meet Allie Arpaci

Today we’d like to introduce you to Allie Arpaci. 

Hi Allie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Together Textiles started as a passion project in 2017 after Güven and I both lost our jobs and our firstborn in a three-month span. We had initial dreams of being successful Amazon sellers but realized quickly that the low-cost competition taking place on that platform was not the right space for us. 

Güven and I began traveling to weekend markets and fleas selling samples while both working (new) full-time jobs while pregnant with our second child. Reinvesting every dollar we made, we have evolved into the modern brand we are today. 

Together Textiles designs a sustainably-made line using weaving techniques passed down four generations on looms in Turkey. The extra-long cotton fibers contribute to superior quality with a stronger and smoother thread making the Turkish towels and robes ultra-soft, absorbent, durable, quick-drying, and naturally hypoallergenic. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
After being unsuccessful selling on Amazon, the first few flea we attended were in Indianapolis. Disappointed with our level of success, we wondered if we were on the right path prepared to pivot yet again. Popping up at markets takes a lot of research, planning, prepping, physical labor, and energy to sell! I typically requested the following Monday off of my “real” job from pure exhaustion from Together Textiles pop-ups (and my third pregnancy). 

Holiday 2019, we popped up with Cleveland Flea and almost sold out of our entire stock on day 1 of 3! After analyzing our success, and continuing to listen and learn from our customers, we began selling online, attending trade shows, and expanding our geographical reach. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The Turkish textile is an ancient craft dating back during the Ottoman Empire and was created for the royal family to boast luxury, wealth, and power. 

We specialize in tailoring our luxury fabrics into loungewear and towels for the whole family! 

We find great purpose and fulfillment in supporting this ancient craft and our extended family of weavers and tailors. We love the freedom of being self-employed and lovingly call ourselves a full-time family. 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
While attending markets and fleas on the weekends, we use that opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs and share experiences. 

We also enjoy expanding our network on social media and reach out directly to brands that align with our values to collaborate and expand our network. 

We love participating in social media giveaways! 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.togethertextiles.com
• Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/togethertextiles
• Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/togethertextiles

Image Credits
Stephanie Sheldon