Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaheen Sadeghi.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story began as an art and design student at the prestigious Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, during the vibrant 1970s. Graduating from Pratt opened a myriad of creative opportunities, allowing me to immerse myself in the dynamic environment of New York’s fashion and art industry.
Upon graduation, I was trained as a couturier, working closely with renowned American designer Charles James at the iconic Chelsea Hotel. This hotel was a cultural hub in the ’70s, frequented by legends like Janis Joplin and Sid Vicious. During this period, I witnessed the height of creative expression, from the impactful “Art Explosion,” Studio 54, and a gamut of exhilarating young designer explosions in New York.
After years in New York, I made a bold move to California. My focus shifted significantly towards the sports industry. My first role was with Catalina Swimwear, then the world’s leading swimwear company. Intriguingly, they tasked me with developing their designs and products in Asia back in 1979. My first trip to Tokyo on a Pan Am flight was transformative; the culture, the culinary delights, and the innovative approach to product presentation left an indelible mark on me. I quickly fell in love with Japan and Asia.
Soon after, I joined Jantzen, a division of VF Corporation. Jantzen at the time was number one in swim, golf, tennis, racquetball, and many other popular sports. I spent a decade working between downtown Los Angeles and my office in Hong Kong. This role provided me with valuable global exposure, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of Asian markets, which would later extend into Europe.
In the following years, I joined a trailblazing entrepreneurial company called GOTCHA, founded by South African entrepreneurs Michael Tomson and Joel Cooper. Within a remarkably short time, GOTCHA emerged as the world’s leading surf brand, significantly impacting the industry.
I was then presented with the opportunity to become the President of Quiksilver, another powerhouse in the surfing community. The brand expanded its offerings to include snowboarding, Roxy, and various other action sports, growing its influence in the market and becoming number one in global sales in the action sports industry.
My experience in the early ’90s, during a transformative period in retail and youth culture, was the core of starting my own company. I found myself at the helm of Quiksilver during a quiet revolution in the retail landscape. As a public company, Quiksilver was doing business with numerous department stores across the country. However, I quickly noticed a significant shift: many of these department stores, like Broadway, Bullocks, Magnum, and Robinsons in California, began to close their doors.
I realized that the traditional shopping mall environment was becoming increasingly unappealing to the younger generation. Young people were no longer congregating in malls; instead, they sought alternative spaces that fostered vibrant and dynamic social and creative experiences.
This dichotomy between where youth culture had been and where it was heading sparked my desire to create something new. My vision culminated in the establishment of “The Lab,” an acronym for “Little American Businesses.” I believed, and still do, that the most excitement, creativity, and innovation arise from small businesses in America.
The Lab was more than just a business; it was a creative hub that brought together a community of like-minded individuals. It transcended traditional boundaries, encompassing not just fashion and products but also culinary arts and multifaceted forms of expression.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I grew up in a traditional family with conventional beliefs. There were fears and doubts surrounding the pursuit of a creative path. I was often led to believe that following the arts, whether through visual arts or music, would not lead to a positive future. The concern about my ability to provide for my family at an older age weighed heavily on me.
Despite these challenges, I am immensely grateful that I chose to challenge the perceptions around me. By surrounding myself with supportive individuals who believed in my vision, I was able to embrace my creativity and follow my passion.
We’ve been impressed with Lab Holding LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At The Lab, we fostered a gathering space for the creative community. We organized events that celebrated poetry, music, visual arts, and various creative disciplines. Our aim was to cultivate an environment where creativity thrived and collaboration was encouraged. We encouraged community and connection as opposed to consumption.
The impact of The Lab extended far beyond our immediate community. Our efforts gained international recognition, with features in esteemed publications such as the London Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Boston Globe, to name a few. We were also covered by key media outlets like NPR and CBS, highlighting our influence on culture and innovation.
The Lab not only marked a pivotal point in my career but also contributed to the evolving landscape of youthful cultural expression throughout the ’90s and beyond.
The Lab philosophy became the cornerstone of our business over the years, guiding our initiatives and shaping our vision. This philosophy emphasized community engagement, creativity, and a holistic approach to well-being, ultimately driving the development of several impactful projects.
One of our flagship endeavors was The Camp, a pioneering retail center that embodied the principles of a community that nurtures body, soul, and mind. This project brought together a curated selection of restaurants, sustainable retail, and wellness services that supported and celebrated a vibrant culture. It became recognized as the first green retail center in the country, embracing sustainability and innovation.
This insight led us to develop the Anaheim Packing District — a combination of ten interconnected projects that celebrate food culture. The district features a diverse array of offerings, including beer halls, wineries, and distilleries, creating a harmonious blend of culinary experiences and culture.
Over the years, we nurtured 49 unique projects, each representing different personalities and cultural influences. This journey has not only been about food but also about creating a community where diverse expressions of new young businesses could thrive.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
In my experience, there is no definitive formula or special recipe for success. The most important thing a young person can do is to embark on a journey of self-discovery. It’s essential to learn about oneself and connect deeply with one’s soul. The more in touch you are with who you are and what brings you happiness, the better equipped you will be to navigate through life’s challenges and a career path.
If your source of joy lies in the arts or the creative process, then allow that passion to guide you. Pursue what resonates with you, whether it be painting, writing, music, or any other form of artistic expression. When you cultivate your interests and talents, you set a foundation for a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Ultimately, trust in your journey and do not shy away from your passions, even if they diverge from traditional paths. Your happiness and fulfillment are paramount, and when you commit to your true self, you pave the way for a rewarding and impactful life.
Do it your way and do it different. Be a destructor. Don’t follow the pack. Show up and make a difference. Break some rules.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://labholding.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecampoc
Image Credits
Pet-a-Porter by Leah Gibson
