Hidden Gems: Meet Victoria Acosta of INDO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Acosta.

Hi Victoria, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My boyfriend, dog Benji, and I made a wild decision to move our lives to Bali in January of 2019. I quit my Retail Management job of seven years a few months beforehand — very insane surreal moment because I loved my job, had zero idea what I wanted to do next but I knew my heart I was ready for my next chapter.

A few months into living in Bali, I was still confused about what direction I wanted to go with my career, so spent my free time exploring, getting inspired and taking tons of pictures. A lot of my friends and family were obsessing over all the gorgeous rattan and bamboo bags I was sharing with them via social media — so for fun I decided to make an online shop of a small curated collection of handbags and accessories, and luckily the response went well! Fast forward to today, my boyfriend, Benji and I moved back to the states December of 2020 — and I now run INDO out of my hometown Los Angeles with the collection still being handcrafted in Bali, Indonesia.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Running a small business alone and wearing all the hats can be very challenging and daunting at first, but my customers are truly what keep me going. The positive feedback and love for the pieces I design and curate mean so much to me!! I would say the first couple of years are the most challenging as you are learning what works for the business and what doesn’t. I feel lucky to be able to work with suppliers and artisans in Bali, but they’re definitely a lot of obstacles that come with that – cost of shipping is always 2-3x your cost, dealing with the language barrier in the beginning, and finished products arriving at our warehouse in conditions that we’re not sellable. As a business owner, you have to learn to not dwell on the mishaps (dealing with bad suppliers, lost products, QC issues) and come back stronger.

We’ve been impressed with INDO, 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?
INDO is a collection of woven bags and accessories handmade by artisans in Bali, Indonesia.

My goal when designing and curating is choosing pieces that are not only well made but timeless and can transition into all seasons. Sustainability through timelessness is how I choose to live, shop and dress — so I hope that I am able to inspire people to do the same.

What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Pasadena, California with five sisters and two brothers. Growing up in a big family was amazing, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It helped shape my identity and left me with some valuable life lessons. I learned how it’s important to focus on experiences, not things. Traditions and quality time are important, and most importantly it’s not just about you.

Career-wise, I have always been into fashion and creating. From the moment I received a weekly allowance of $5, I would save and spend it on fashion magazines so I can create fashion collages.

Pricing:

• $40-$150

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: shopindobali.com
• Instagram: shopindobali

Image Credits:
picture 1 to 3 are model – Becca Acosta picture 4: Celeb Katy Perry picture 5: Entertainment Host Catt Sadler picture 6: Stylist Monica Rose