Chicago, IL — Golftini, the fashion-forward golf and lifestyle brand known for blending performance with elevated style, proudly celebrates over two decades since its founding and enters its next chapter as an official family business.
Founded in 2005 by Susan Hess, Golftini has evolved from a homegrown side-hustle into a globally recognized brand. Today, that legacy enters its next chapter as Susan is joined full-time by her three sons, Ryan, Keegan, and Parker Hess. Together, they represent a new generation stepping into the company she built from the ground up.
Ryan, the oldest, has been with Golftini for six years and leads the brand’s marketing and strategy. Parker, the youngest, has spent the past two years driving sales and business development, while Keegan recently joined to head operations and scale the company’s next phase of growth.
“I never imagined this when I first started Golftini,” said Susan Hess. “Having all three of my sons working alongside me is a true blessing. “I will never take it for granted.”
From Family Home to National Brand
Golftini’s roots are deeply personal. What began in 2005 with Susan designing skorts out of her home, first for herself and then for friends, quickly grew after a chance knock on the door from a local golf professional’s wife asking to carry the product in her shop.
Soon after, a breakthrough order at the PGA Show transformed the company from a small operation into a rapidly growing business, one that quite literally took over the family home.
“Our sunroom became her office. Bedrooms turned into warehouses. The house stayed the same size, the inventory didn’t” said Parker Hess.
From packing orders alongside family and friends to watching the brand expand nationwide, the Hess brothers grew up immersed in the business. Each later gained outside experience before officially joining, returning with a shared vision and passion to grow the brand even further while preserving its identity.
A Full Circle Moment
Now headquartered in Chicago’s West Loop, Golftini continues to evolve with a trailblazing vision and a strong presence in both women’s and men’s golf apparel.
The introduction of the men’s line was sparked by years of encouragement from Susan’s sons, and has become a natural extension of the brand and a key growth driver.
As all three sons step into the business, their focus remains simple: to support the foundation Susan built, contribute their experience, and be part of something they never expected but feel incredibly grateful for.
“It’s incredible to see how far Golftini has come, and the opportunity in front of us is a true testament to everything our mother has built,” said Ryan Hess.
Rooted in Purpose
From the iconic pink martini logo to recognizable skorts and best-in-class customer service, Golftini’s staying power has always been rooted in purpose and people.
Today, that extends beyond the Hess family. With a team of 10 full-time employees, Golftini is powered by individuals who consistently go above and beyond, bringing passion, dedication, and a shared commitment to the brand’s vision. To Susan, they are more than a team, they are family.
“I am so proud of my company and the people who work with me. We are a family, and always have been, even before my boys officially joined,” said Susan.
Together, the brand uses its platform to support and raise awareness for breast cancer, reflected in its signature pink martini.
“The martini is always pink. That was never negotiable,” she added.
As Golftini enters its next chapter, the addition of all three sons reflects both continuity and momentum, building on a 21-year legacy as a modern family business.
“My goal now is to continue building something we’re all proud of,” said Susan, “and maybe spend a little more time enjoying the game that started it all.”
About Golftini
Golftini is a women’s and men’s golf and lifestyle apparel brand founded in 2005 by Susan Hess. Known for its bold prints, elevated silhouettes, and performance-driven fabrics, Golftini designs pieces made for the course and beyond. Headquartered in Chicago, the brand is sold in over 1,000 pro shops and resorts worldwide and remains committed to supporting breast cancer awareness initiatives through its signature pink martini branding.
Please contact ryan@golftiniwear.com for more information and inquiries.
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