In this lecture, Ellen Van Der Laan shares her journey from graphic designer to co-founder of Baggu, a San Francisco-based company renowned for creating simple, playful products for everyday living. Driven by a passion for blending style and purpose, Ellen and her childhood best friend, Emily Sugihara, along with Emily’s mother, Joan Hall Sugihara, launched Baggu in 2007. The brand quickly gained recognition for its innovative and eco-conscious reusable shopping bags, celebrated for their simplicity and practicality. Baggu’s focus on sustainability and commitment to minimal-waste design struck a chord with their target audience, propelling the brand to social media fame for its bold, vibrant patterns. Seventeen years later, Baggu has expanded its product lineup and remains wildly popular, recently going viral on TikTok. Many loyal customers eagerly await new product drops, which often sell out within minutes. Ellen’s story reflects her dedication to creating products that are both beautiful and impactful. In this talk, she will offer valuable insights into the dynamic intersection of design, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, inspiring others to pursue meaningful and innovative work.
