Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cassandra Torres. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Cassandra, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I think I found my purpose by following the thread that’s always been there, a mix of creativity, connection, and how much I care for people. My background was in retail, and while I started out studying photography, I quickly discovered that I loved the environment of helping others and building teams. After becoming a mom, I reached a point where I felt torn between wanting to be home with my kids and still needing something that fulfilled me creatively and personally.
The pandemic pushed me to slow down and reevaluate, and I started making and selling cups at local markets. That creative spark helped to remind me of what I’d always loved, which is bringing people together around something handmade and meaningful. When the opportunity came to open Tinker & Trade, it felt like I was able to align everything I’d learned and loved: my retail experience, my leadership background, and my deep appreciation for makers and small businesses.
My purpose now is rooted in creating connections between vendors and customers, creativity and community, and even between parents like me who are trying to blend work and family. I get so much joy from cheering on our vendors, celebrating every sale, and seeing our space become a cozy hub for the neighborhood. Adding The Broken Spine, Philly’s first romance bookstore, helped expand that even further by connecting book lovers with local makers.
It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply fulfilling. My purpose isn’t just about running a store; it’s about building a space where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. That sense of community and shared creativity is what keeps me grounded and reminds me that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m the owner of Tinker & Trade, a boutique in Brewerytown, Philadelphia, that brings together handmade vendors and small businesses from across Pennsylvania and the tri-state area. The shop is home to a mix of local artisans, makers, and creatives, each with their own unique story and style. What makes the space special is that it’s not just a store, it’s a community hub. Every vendor has their own personality reflected in their display, and each space tells a story of the person behind the product.
On the lower level of Tinker & Trade, is The Broken Spine, Philadelphia’s first romance-only bookstore. It’s been such an exciting way to connect readers and makers, and to show how much heart and artistry both communities bring to what they do. We host regular author signings, pop-ups, and creative workshops that bring people together in a cozy, inclusive environment.
What excites me most about what I do is the connection. I love cheering on our vendors, celebrating their wins, and seeing people light up when they find the perfect gift or discover a new favorite author. The energy in the store reflects the kind of community I always wanted to be part of, supportive, inspiring, and full of personality.
Right now, I’m focused on growing our events and expanding how we connect with the community. We recently started hosting themed experiences, book signings, and seasonal socials that blend creativity, shopping, and fun. I’m also exploring ways to create space for parents and local creatives who want a flexible, welcoming place to work, collaborate, and recharge.
We currently have author signings on the calendar and are planning our holiday season. Those not involved in the store are welcome to reach out and host an intimate community event.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’d say the three qualities that shaped my journey are resilience, creativity, and empathy. Resilience helped me navigate career changes and challenges in building a business. Creativity guided everything from product-making to curating a space that feels unique and authentic. And empathy has been essential for connecting with vendors, customers, and the community.
For anyone starting out, I would say embrace challenges as learning opportunities, stay curious and open to new ideas, and always focus on understanding and supporting the people around you. Those habits build not just skills, but the foundation for long-term growth and impact.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
It really depends on how overwhelmed I am, but I usually start by taking a step back, dialing things down, and making a list of what absolutely needs to happen first. Prioritizing like that can work wonders. Sometimes the simplest things help too. I often forget that just getting outside and taking a few deep breaths of fresh air can completely reset your perspective.
A big piece of advice I’ve learned is that sometimes things just need to wait. Our mental health and well-being are more important than checking every box on a to-do list. It’s okay to have a “burrow into the couch” day. Most things really can wait or get the bare minimum that has to be done, done. At the end of the day, focus on the little things that make you happy. Whether that’s an iced butter pecan coffee to get you motivated, reading a book while only getting up for your kids’ snacks, dropping flowers off to a friend, going for a drive, or eating some amazing tacos, those small joys help you recharge and keep perspective.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tinkerandtradeco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinkerandtrade
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/tinker-and-trade-philadelphia-3?osq=tinker+and+trade
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
