Today we’d like to introduce you to Tory Zamakhovskaya
Hi Tory, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been a creative person, and I’ve always loved hair and hair accessories. But for years, I stayed in the corporate world, always finding reasons to put off starting my own business. That changed when my mom was diagnosed with cancer. It was a wake-up call that made me realize how much I wanted more freedom in my life—to be able to prioritize what truly matters without feeling tied down by someone else’s schedule.
That was the push I needed to finally take the leap and start Khoade—a brand that turns everyday hair ties into stylish, wearable accessories. The process wasn’t easy. I spent months researching, testing products, and finding the right vendors. There were setbacks, lessons learned, and plenty of trial and error, but I kept going because I truly believed in what I was creating.
Today, I’m proud of what I’ve built. Khoade is more than just hair ties—it’s about effortless style, function, and confidence. Seeing customers love and connect with my products keeps me motivated, and I’m excited to continue growing and bringing new ideas to life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road! Starting and growing a business comes with a lot of challenges, and I’ve faced my fair share. One of the biggest struggles was finding the right vendors—it took a lot of trial and error to find manufacturers I could trust to deliver the quality I wanted. I’ve had experiences where the final product didn’t match the sample, the colors were wrong, or the materials weren’t as durable as promised.
Another challenge has been building brand awareness. Unlike big platforms like Etsy or Amazon, having my own e-commerce site means I have to work harder to drive traffic and get my products in front of the right people. Learning the ins and outs of marketing, social media, and customer engagement has been a journey in itself.
And of course, the mental side of entrepreneurship—self-doubt, questioning whether I’m on the right path, and pushing through slow days—is a challenge every business owner faces. But through it all, I’ve learned to be patient, persistent, and trust the process. Every struggle has taught me something valuable, and I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I create stylish, functional hair ties that double as bracelets—because hair accessories should be just as cute as they are practical. My brand, Khoade, is all about making everyday essentials feel a little more special.
I specialize in designing comfortable, durable, and stylish hair ties that blend seamlessly into any outfit. Unlike traditional hair ties that are often plain or easily break, Khoade hair ties are designed to look like accessories while still being sturdy enough for everyday use. Whether you’re a busy mom, a working professional, or someone who’s always on the go, I want my products to make you feel effortlessly put together.
What I’m most proud of is the customer feedback and community that’s forming around Khoade. Hearing people say that they love how these hair ties make them feel—whether it’s because they’re more comfortable, match their personal style, or just add a little confidence to their day—means everything to me.
What sets Khoade apart is the attention to detail. Every product goes through testing to ensure quality, comfort, and durability. I don’t sell anything I wouldn’t personally wear and love. Plus, the brand’s vibe is all about that effortless, coastal-desert aesthetic—chic, relaxed, and perfect for any occasion.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My family, boyfriend, and close friends all deserve so much credit. They’ve been my biggest supporters, always lifting me up when I’m feeling discouraged. Whether it’s offering words of encouragement, reminding me why I started, or just being there to listen, they’ve played a huge role in keeping me motivated. I’m so grateful to have such an amazing support system cheering me on every step of the way!
Pricing:
- $10-S22
Contact Info:
- Website: https://khoade.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khoade_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Khoade/61552271410932/
Image Credits
Justin Litchfield
