Tony Peniche – The Essence of an Entrepreneur

The question that every entrepreneur hears at least once on his or her journey to success is this: Do you have what it takes? This is the question that implores entrepreneurs to delve deep within themselves, searching for the vision that started them on the path towards greatness. A path that will hopefully result in a revolutionary idea or product that will change the world for the better. A path fraught with uncertainty and adventure that requires commitment, dedication, and an innovative mind.

For young businessman Tony Peniche, the path of entrepreneurial success began when he was a student at Western Oregon University, where he obtained his Associate’s degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. Tony initially saw himself as an athlete, participating in Track and Field races and long jump events. However, after completing two years at WOU, Tony realized that sports were not his calling and decided to enroll at the Art Institute of Portland. Here he received his BA in Apparel Design; but more than that, he discovered his passion for the arts.

Tony Peniche chose to make his entrepreneurial dream come true by going into fashion design after graduating from the Art Institute. From 2007-2013, he became an expert in men’s wear fashion, and was awarded Fashion Designer of the Year in 2012 by the Portland Fashion & Style Awards. This was also the year that Tony opened his own commercial photography studio, specializing in editorials, high impact shots, headshots, and fashion photography. Tony’s ambition and perseverance continued to make waves in the creative world with the opening of his company NXT Industries, which designs creative, shared office spaces for Portland creatives, giving others like him an opportunity to take their business, idea, or passion to the next level.

In the wake of his success in the arts, Tony decided to try his hand in a new industry. Through an intensive kick-starter campaign, Tony launched his groundbreaking company Time & Oak, which develops products that enhance whiskey. In 2014, the Tony invented and released the Whiskey Element, a patented invention that allows users to dramatically improve the quality of their whiskey bottles in a mere 24 hours by removing harsh chemicals and making it incredibly smooth.

Tony Peniche exemplifies the true essence of what it means to be an entrepreneur – taking risks, being innovative, and carving your own path in a world that isn’t always kind to those who don’t follow the status quo.

Tony Peniche, The Changing Shape of the American Dream

The idea of the American Dream is for many the linchpin of all that makes the freedoms of the nation great. The right to pursue one's own dreams and career, to provide and raise a family, and contribute towards making the country prosper has had different interpretations over time. In the 21st century, with developing technology and booming enterprise, the American Dream today still exists, albeit it in a slightly transformed manner. Start-up culture, entrepreneurial initiatives, Kick starter campaigns and crowdfunding ideas have made the world of enterprise more exciting than ever for people wishing to take their ideas to the top. Young creative entrepreneurs like like Tony Peniche are the perfect of example of how young and exciting professionals with pioneering spirits are redefining what it means to pursue the American Dream.

For Anthony Peniche, Living the American Dream has defined his career so far. A graduate from the prestigious Arts Institute in Portland, still not 30 years old Tony has already achieved success pursuing a variety of creative, business and philanthropic pursuits. He represents a growing group of individuals who have showed that modern career pursuits can entail a variety of different roles and accumulate in experience and the building of of a wide range of skills.

Tony Peniche's early career began in professional photography. Building up a portfolio of eye-catching and high profile designs his eye for style and composition quickly manifested into fashion design. He started his own fashion label 'Killing Beverly', which quickly rose to fame under the young artisans artistic vision. In 2009, the company had a collection included in the Portland Fashion Week, raising Tony Peniche's profile in the creative industries.

Since then Tony has gone on to pursue more entrepreneurial pursuits. His role in the creative and innovative communities in Portland has really been felt by his activity in the city. Not only is he a frequent and inspiring speaker at The University of Oregon and Portland State University, but he has also set up his own creative hub. The space at NXT Industries is over 5,000 sq. M big, and offers space for freelancers, creative individuals and entrepreneurs to work in an environment that fosters innovation and design. Whilst running this particular hub along with others, Tony also has his time to pursue his own personal business projects. Whiskey Elements is the latest revolutionary product developed by Tony's company that helps barreled whiskey age at a faster rate than it does normally. Follow Tony Peniche on LinkedIn.