Tori Ruff shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Tori, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think what is misunderstood about my business is that although we are a unisex brand, we aren’t for everyone. Our brand focuses on representation for those whom may have felt unrepresented in the beauty industry. Part of our mission is to bring gender and complexion fluidity to all things aesthetically pleasing. This is more than just how things look; it’s about your overall experience when in its presence. Of course, if you love our products, then you love our products; however, we want to promote more inclusivity in the beauty industry.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Tori Ruff, and I am the Brand Owner of Ivy Aesthetics. Ivy Aesthetics is a unisex brand that values bringing gender and complexion fluidity to the beauty industry. We focus on providing the best products, customer service, and overall experience to our clients, customers, and supporters.
The beauty industry typically goes for a certain look and we wanted to bring more representation in the areas of gender and complexion. The word “aesthetic” to us is less about how things look, and more about how you feel, smell, etc. when in its presence. Our brand being unisex makes us unique. We may provide products for all genders; however, our mission is to provide a brand for the people who may have felt left out or that they weren’t enough.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
One thing I used to believe about myself was that I had to box myself in and choose just one thing I wanted to do in life. At the time, people thought the idea of wanting to do a variety of things meant you didn’t know what you wanted to do or you didn’t have a clear vision. As an ambitious and adventurous kid, I always felt and was raised to believe the sky was the limit. There was nothing I couldn’t do. However, being in different environments, people were judgmental. Not only with me wanting to try new things, but also being great at them once I gave them a try.
Now that I’m an adult and much wiser, I let go of that belief and caring so much about what others think about me. The moment I decided to let it all go, it felt like I started “living” all over again. I wasn’t people pleasing or boxing myself into these rooms to make others feel comfortable.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be that she inspires me to this day to go after any and everything I want in life. She was always so well-rounded and adventurous, wanting to do a little bit of everything. I think because of that, I have the mindset that there’s really nothing I can’t have, be, or do. It’s about finding and maintaining the joy in life. I’m always open to trying new things and gaining new experiences. Some days I wake up and just decide I want to pursue a new venture, then start the process of going after it. Should I realize that I don’t like something or it isn’t for me during the process, I can always stop and try something else. I really feel limitless, like I have a plethora of opportunities when it comes to what I can do.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say my family, friends, and my passions are what really matter to me. I’m always either spending time with family and friends or sharing stories of fun experiences we shared together. If it’s not them, I’m talking about a new hobby or project I’m working on. They know that I’m always talking about things I love in conversation. If they let me, I could probably go on for hours about those three things alone.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story I hope people will tell about me is that I inspired them to be the best version of themselves and to go after everything they ever wanted in life. I always said that if I inspired just one person, my job is done. I hope people learn to love themselves enough to want to make positive changes in their lives and the lives of those they care about. This way, it’s a domino effect and the legacy continues. I hope people feel a sense of empowerment and drive to keep going after their dreams no matter what. When they feel their best, it’ll influence them to be their best.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ivyaesthetics.net
- Instagram: _ivyaesthetics / __teethecreator
- Twitter: _ivyaesthetics / _teethecreator
- Facebook: ivyaesthetics2
- Other: TikTok: __ivyaesthetics
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