Meet Alyssa Hudson | Founder & Designer, A’kini Swimwear

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alyssa Hudson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyssa, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Honestly, I get bored really easily — I’ve always bounced between different creative outlets or ideas. I love learning new things and challenging myself, and for a long time, I was trying to find something that could really hold my interest. When I started A’kini, it was different. I wasn’t bored — and I haven’t been since. I do everything behind the scenes: the designing, the website, the photoshoots, editing, social media, customer service, you name it — it’s all me. And the crazy part is, I love it. It’s the first time I’ve been able to pour all my creative energy into something that’s entirely mine. It lets me be artistic, strategic, and hands-on every single day — and that constant evolution is what keeps me going.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Starting A’kini Swimwear came from a personal frustration and a desire to create something better — swimwear that actually fits and adapts to all body types, instead of the other way around. What sets us apart is the intentional design behind every piece: adjustability that lets you customize fit and coverage, thoughtful details, and high-quality, sustainable fabrics that perform beautifully in the water and feel incredible on the skin. I’m proud to have built a brand that celebrates real bodies and offers options for everyone to feel confident and comfortable.

Another thing that sets A’kini apart is how deeply our values are woven into every piece. Our suits are made with consciously chosen fabrics like ECONYL®, made from regenerated fishing nets and plastic waste, and REPREVE®, made from recycled plastic bottles. These innovative materials offer UV protection, body-contouring comfort, and long-lasting durability — while helping clean up our oceans and reduce waste. Using recycled materials reduces carbon emissions by up to 80%, and every suit is a small step toward a healthier planet.

A’kini is also produced ethically through a woman-led company in Bali, Indonesia, that provides fair wages, family health insurance, and safe, supportive working conditions. It matters to me that the people who help bring these pieces to life are valued and supported.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy — it’s been a constant learning curve, wearing many hats and figuring things out on the fly. From sourcing the right fabrics to designing, photographing, and running the business solo, every step has required patience and persistence. The biggest challenge has been balancing the creative side with the practical demands of business — but I’ve learned to trust my instincts, embrace mistakes as lessons, and lean on my support system, especially my family.

At the end of the day, A’kini is more than just swimwear. It’s a brand built on care, intention, and love — one that celebrates real bodies, respects the planet, and supports the people behind the seams. Every piece is designed to empower and inspire, and that mission drives everything I do.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit San Luis Obispo County, I’d want them to experience everything I love about living here — the perfect mix of laid-back beach towns, stunning natural beauty, and a really special small-town charm you don’t find everywhere. We’d spend time on the coast, probably lounging in Avila or Cayucos, grabbing fresh seafood, and watching the sunset with our toes in the sand. There’s something really calming about the pace here — it lets you breathe a little deeper.

We’d also explore downtown San Luis Obispo — wandering through local shops, eating good food, and catching live music or the Thursday night farmers market, which is such a fun and community-driven event. I’d absolutely take them to Montaña de Oro State Park — the cliffs and views are unreal, and there’s something about standing at the edge of that landscape that just quiets your mind in the best way.

And of course, we’d spend a day wine tasting in Edna Valley. It’s one of the most beautiful wine regions in California — peaceful, scenic, and so underrated. You can sit outside with a glass of wine, watch the vineyards roll out in every direction, and just take it all in.

The best part about this area is that you can slow down and enjoy everything around you — whether that’s a hike with ocean views, a soak in the hot springs, or just good conversation over a great meal. It’s a place that’s full of heart, and I’d love to show someone why I feel so lucky to call it home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much of this journey to my parents. My mom has been my constant rock — showing up to every single photoshoot, helping me figure out lighting, styling, and keeping me grounded when things get overwhelming. My dad has been my biggest fixer and builder, always ready to create whatever I need to bring my vision to life. But more than anything, their unwavering belief in me has been the foundation of everything. Through every doubt, every late night, and every challenge, their love and support have lifted me up. This journey wouldn’t be possible without them, and I’m forever thankful to have their love and support every step of the way.

Website: https://www.akiniswimwear.com

Instagram: @akiniswimwear