Starting a business can often be a journey filled with unexpected turns and serendipitous moments. For me, Vivian Kvitka, the founder of TheVIVgoods, my entrepreneurial adventure began not with a love for fashion, but with a fear of heights and an unexpected romance with the skies. Here’s how a terrifying experience transformed into a mission-driven business, dedicated to sustainability and unique design.
The Birth of an Idea
When I first met my husband years ago, he was already deeply in love with paragliding. I, on the other hand, was petrified. Watching him soar into the sky for the first time was nerve-wracking. I imagined all the worst-case scenarios and how I would have to break the news to his parents if something went wrong. Over time, though, I began to accept this part of his life, even if it meant constant anxiety for me.
One summer, he came back from a paragliding trip with a story that would change everything. His friend had a near-miss accident, colliding with a cliff. Thankfully, he was unscathed, but his paraglider was destroyed. When I asked what happened to the damaged paraglider, my husband nonchalantly mentioned that it was thrown away. I was shocked that such a large, vibrant piece of material would end up in a landfill. This wastefulness struck a chord with me, and I knew I had to find a better use for these discarded paragliders.
From Fear to Fashion
Fast forward a year, and the first collection of upcycled bags, named PARAGLIDER x U.BAGS, was launched. The positive feedback was overwhelming. Not only did these sustainably made bags find a place in the market, but they also helped me feel more connected to my husband's passion. It was a win-win situation. I was giving a new life to something that would have otherwise contributed to environmental waste, and I was creating stylish, functional eco-friendly bags that people loved.
Building TheVIVgoods
In 2019, I officially founded TheVIVgoods in Berlin. This Berlin small brand operates out of my cozy 20-square-meter studio in Friedrichshain. Here, I design, sew, pack orders, and manage everything in between. The name "TheVIVgoods" reflects not just my name but also the vibrant, lively spirit I aim to infuse into each product.
The core of TheVIVgoods lies in sustainability and quality. My signature product, the U.BAG, epitomizes this ethos. These unique crossbody bags are crafted from retired paragliders, which are no longer safe for flying but perfect for creating lightweight durable bags. The material, similar to a parachute, is incredibly strong yet light as a feather, and it comes in a spectrum of bold, eye-catching colors.
Crafting with Care
Each bag is made with a commitment to sustainability and longevity. The designs are timeless, focusing on personal style rather than fleeting trends. This means my customers can enjoy their bags for years without them going out of fashion. Quality is paramount; whether I am personally crafting the bags or working with a small cut-and-sew manufacturer in Budapest, every piece is made with meticulous attention to detail and a passion for excellence.
A Mission-Driven Business
The mission of TheVIVgoods is simple: to provide high-quality, long-lasting products that tell a story and support a community of like-minded individuals. My bags are more than just accessories; they are symbols of resourcefulness and sustainability. By repurposing retired paragliders, I interrupt the cycle of waste and offer products that inspire a hands-free, adventurous lifestyle.
A Sustainable Approach
Sustainability has been a cornerstone of TheVIVgoods since its inception. I operate on the principles of slow fashion accessories, launching new collections based on demand rather than seasonal trends. This approach prevents overproduction and waste. All my products are made from at least 80% recycled material bags, and I encourage my customers to purchase only what they need, promoting a more conscious approach to consumption.
A Lifelong Passion for Upcycling
My journey into entrepreneurship started long before TheVIVgoods. At 16, I opened my first Etsy shop selling upcycled jewelry. By 20, I was running a second shop featuring vintage finds. These experiences nurtured my entrepreneurial spirit and taught me the value of creativity and sustainability.
The Future of TheVIVgoods
As TheVIVgoods continues to grow, so does my commitment to sustainability and quality. I am exploring new ways to repurpose materials and expand my product range, always to minimize my environmental footprint. The goal is to create products that are not only beautiful and functional but also meaningful and impactful. TheVIVgoods is proud to be a part of the ethical fashion Berlin movement, continuously striving to improve and innovate in the realm of sustainable fashion.
Join Me on This Journey
TheVIVgoods is more than a brand; it’s a movement towards responsible fashion and conscious living. Each bag I create carries a story of transformation and hope, from the mountains and skies to the hands of my customers. I invite you to join me on this journey, to embrace a lifestyle that values quality, sustainability, and thoughtful consumption.
Thank you for supporting TheVIVgoods and being a part of my story. Together, we can make a difference, one upcycled bag at a time.
----
For more information and to shop my current range of handmade bags Berlin, visit TheVIVgoods website. Stay connected with me on social media to follow my latest updates and be inspired by my community.