Today we’d like to introduce you to Agostina Vidable.
Hi Agostina, We are so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I went to design school in Savannah, GA and got a degree in textile design. While working as a designer for a textile manufacturer in Atlanta, I got to be part of cool projects like art directing and designing National Geographic’s first home goods line! I left that position for a corporate job at a fast fashion brand, leading to severe creative burnout. I realized I was participating in a cycle of production that I strongly disagreed with. I eventually quit and opened my own business, a brick-and-mortar shop called Valiente Goods, where I sold vintage and handmade fair-trade goods. I loved supporting makers worldwide and had the opportunity to meet a lot of artisans and travel to places like Guatemala and Morocco to source merchandise. During this time, I developed a love for community abroad and locally in my hometown of Columbus, OH. Columbus is a big city with a small-town feel where everyone rallies to support each other. Several women-run networking groups helped me grow my business. They changed my life by introducing me to the right business opportunities and the women who would become my closest friends (Shoutout to Columbus Flea and Creative Beings). When I moved to Austin in 2021, I knew I needed to find my people, and the best way I know how to do that is by hosting events and getting involved in community building.
I loved the vibe of Big Medium’s Studio tours and knew that I would eventually like to host a big community event during West. It took a while, but I created a project I am calling w.e.make.atx. This project aims to create collaboration opportunities between local creatives and business owners, pushing the small local economy forward while amplifying the voices of women and people of gender-expansive identities. I hosted my first event as w.e.make.atx. During 2023’s West Studio Tour, in my backyard! We had 16 vendors and a sponsorship from Big Country Brewing. It was a lot of fun, and I look forward to planning more networking events.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Looking back on my journey, I can connect the dots of what I have been building for the past 10+ years, but it felt ferocious when I was going through all of my career changes. Leaving jobs I thought were the dream, opening and closing a business, moving across the country, and starting over twice, I felt confused, scattered, and unsure of myself. Many creatives and people who choose to live life outside of the social norm feel this way. We like to try things, start ventures, and quit them when we realize they are not for us. I am neurodivergent but didn’t know this about myself until very recently. Navigating a world not built for me has been an enormous struggle, but I’ve slowly carved a path for myself. One that is centered on community and connection and one that is aligned with the way my brain works. Austin has been an excellent place for me in this chapter of my life; here, I found a community of creative weirdos on the same journey of not following the rules and creating a lifestyle that works for them.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am primarily freelancing as a designer and illustrator, specializing in branding for mission- and mission-driven purposes. My strength is developing a strategy that helps businesses connect with their communities genuinely and meaningfully. I love all forms of community building; doing this for my clients while being creative is fulfilling. I am proud of myself for building a career around my strengths and creating a life that works for me.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If you are looking for design work for your mission-driven business, you can find me on Instagram at @agostinaillu or hello@agostinaele.com. If you are a creative (of any kind!) or a business owner who wants to connect and collaborate with like-minded folks, follow us at @w.e.make.atx!
I like to give advice whenever possible: love your fellow humans, vote, and please check on your unhoused neighbors, especially during the winter months.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://agostinaele.myportfolio.com/work
- Instagram: @agostinaillu @w.e.make.atx
