Amidst a canvas of cutting-edge fashion and innovative design at PROJECT Las Vegas 2024, one brand stands out with its unique blend of practicality and panache: Adventurist Backpack Co. which wholesomely suffices to be the story of Kelly and Matilda; two intrepid co-founders who are carving a niche in the travel gear industry with their eye for detail and commitment to quality.
From Wanderlust to Wander-Must
The journey of Adventurist Backpack Co. began with a personal quest. Kelly and Matilda were avid travelers in search of a backpack that ticked all the boxes: durability, weather resistance, aesthetic appeal, and affordability. Faced with a market that didn’t cater to their needs, they decided to stop making concessions and start taking matters into their own hands. “We couldn’t find what we were looking for,” Kelly shares. “So we started designing backpacks out of necessity for our own travels.” This was the inception of a brand that would soon resonate with like-minded adventurers seeking the same qualities in their travel companions.
Crafting the Ideal Travel Mate: Quality Meets Affordability
Adventurist Backpack Co.’s ethos is rooted in the belief that high-quality travel gear shouldn’t be a luxury. Matilda elaborates, “We’re filling a gap in the market for high-quality, fashionable backpacks at a fair price.” Their approach is a testament to their dedication to creating products that are not only functional and stylish but also accessible to a broader audience. This balance of quality and affordability has become the hallmark of their brand, setting them apart against a landscape that is as competitive as it is vast.
“We’re filling a gap in the market for high-quality, fashionable backpacks at a fair price.”
From Novices to Notable: A Steep Learning Curve
Starting a company fresh out of college, with no prior experience in product design or business management, presented a unique challenge for Kelly and Matilda. “It was a super steep learning curve,” Kelly admits.
However, their passion for problem-solving and their ability to learn and adapt quickly have been instrumental in their success. Their journey from novices to being featured in prominent publications is a narrative of perseverance and the power of embracing challenges from the trailhead, on.
The Strategic Shift: Embracing Wholesale Opportunities
What began as a direct-to-consumer endeavor quickly evolved into wholesale opportunities. Matilda recalls the early days, “We started out thinking we were going to only do DTC. And then, after just a week or so in business, stores reached out and asked if we did wholesale.” This pivot was a defining moment for Adventurist Backpack Co., allowing them to expand their reach and establish a presence in retail stores across the country. Their adaptability in business strategy underscores their willingness to explore new adventures and seize opportunities along the way that align with their vision.
The First Big Break: A Journey to Montana
The co-founders’ first significant wholesale order was a milestone that tested their resolve. When recalling that first wholesale order out of Montana, Matilda recounts the experience with a mix of nostalgia and pride, “We had no idea what we were doing.” The drive to deliver 100 units was not just a physical journey but a leap of faith into the unknown. This experience was a crucial learning opportunity and a memorable achievement that validated their hard work and solidified their first retail partnership, with more on the horizon.
Navigating the Trade Show Terrain: Expanding Horizons
Trade shows have become a cornerstone of Adventurist Backpack Co.’s expansion strategy. Kelly explains, “It’s sort of morphed into us trying to find new stores through trade shows.” Events like PROJECT Las Vegas, offer a concentrated venue for networking, showcasing their products, and forging partnerships with retailers. Their proactive approach to attending trade shows, despite being a relatively new company, further exemplifies their enduring commitment to growth, evolution and offers a compelling understanding of how important direct engagement with potential partners can be for brands at any stage.
Diversifying to Thrive: Adapting to the Changes on the Trail
Adventurist Backpack Co. is not content with a single mode of operation. “We’re not trying to exclude any revenue streams,” Matilda emphasizes. The company’s strategy to diversify their sales channels reflects a willingness and ability to meet the dynamic nature of the market. By pursuing both wholesale and direct-to-consumer sales, they’re ensure a robust and resilient business model capable of weathering the ebbs and flows of the industry.
The Ascent Continues: Aiming to Crest New Peaks
For Adventurist Backpack Co., the journey is far from over. “We always want to be growing as much as possible,” Kelly states with conviction. Their aspirations to partner with major retailers like REI and their continuous pursuit of innovation and collaboration are clear indicators of their ambition. They are not just building a brand; they are cultivating a legacy that will inspire and equip travelers for years to come.
Adventurist Backpack Co.’s story is one of passion, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Kelly and Matilda’s vision has transformed a simple need into a thriving business that stands as a beacon for adventurers everywhere. As they continue to chart their course, one thing is certain: the world is their oyster, and the journey is only just beginning.
