Bradenton, Fla. – When most people think of bow ties, they picture formal events. For Bradenton entrepreneur Travis Ray, a bow tie has been a daily wardrobe staple since kindergarten, and that personal passion became the foundation of his business, Dapper Bowtique.
From hobby to storefront
Ray officially launched Dapper Bowtique on January 1, 2020, after years of making bow ties for himself. Friends and family began asking to purchase his creations, prompting him to turn a personal hobby into a full‑time venture. Every bow tie is handcrafted by Ray, who describes the sewing process as “almost a form of meditation.” He credits a seventh‑grade home economics class for teaching him the basic skills that later evolved into his career.
Designs that appeal to all ages
Dapper Bowtique offers a wide range of styles, from bold solids and colorful patterns to novelty prints featuring sports teams and pop‑culture themes. The brand’s versatility reflects Ray’s belief that bow ties need not be limited to galas or balls. “I think you can wear it today,” he says. “They pretty much can be worn by anyone at any time. You don’t have to just go to a gala or a ball to wear it.”
Notable fans
Among the bow‑tie enthusiasts who have taken notice is science educator Bill Nye, who owns two of Ray’s handcrafted pieces. The endorsement underscores the growing appeal of Dapper Bowtique’s designs beyond traditional formalwear circles.
Supporting local craftsmanship
Ray hopes his business encourages others to rethink when and how they wear bow ties, while also showcasing the value of local, handmade goods. The Dapper Bowtique website not only sells the ties but also provides a step‑by‑step tutorial for anyone interested in learning how to tie a traditional bow tie, further promoting craftsmanship within the community.
Looking ahead
As the brand continues to expand its online presence, Ray remains committed to the hands‑on approach that defines each piece. He sees each new fabric as an opportunity to create something unique, guided by color and personal inspiration.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
