Victoria and I are both Miami girls. We also both went to Florida State University at the same time. But we didn't know till we met an ocean away in Valencia, Spain in 2004 during a study abroad. Little did we know then, the moment we met, that we'd become friends, business partners, and together, embark on a journey to build a brand that was inspired by our Latino roots and travel habit.
Victoria and Lorena, 2022
Growing up in Miami made it easy to access the Spanish Caribbean and feel that influence all over town. Here, Bimini is 50 minutes by boat, South America 2.5 hours, and the tropics just outside of our doorstep. The relaxed feeling of the flow of water and warm breeze is intertwined with the every day experience of living and growing up in the city. Flip flops, linen and soft cotton dresses, the classic style of the Guayaberas paired with Fino Hats, and a straw bag are year-round wardrobe staples in the Magic City.
Wearing my Victoria Basket in Lisbon- Castillo Belem
So naturally, when we launched Sonder & Holliday, we did so as a resort brand. We offered an array of colorful hats, beach baskets, bags, and other vacation ready accessories. Plus, as constant island hoppers and resort lovers, we knew exactly what we needed to look stylish while being practical as we met the world.
Left to right: Took my Victoria Basket to Costa Rica || Wearing the Fino Hat in Peru || In the swing of Summer with a Safari Hat and Victoria Basket in Miami Beach || Beach Night Party in Turks & Caicos with a Petite Victoria Basket
But then Covid came and it forced everyone indoors. People replaced travel with interior decorating and vacations became staycations. In order to stay afloat, we pivoted from resort to home, something we always intended to do, but had planned for later.
With my Victoria Basket & Fino Hat in Machu Picchu , Peru
And thank God for the pivot, because of this, we managed to stay in business during those difficult times. However, I never lost my love for resort and always yearned to return. Resort always felt like natural to me. Not only was I from Miami, but for years I had traveled throughout the Caribbean for work. I was and am all about that resort life and it felt time to go back home.
And after several grueling years of a Pandemic, I'm ready for fun, brighter, happier times too.
The moment I fell in LOVE with our Safari Hat in Ghana
Today, we relaunched Resort! Coastal living, resort loving, a sun kissed glow and an affinity for the sea, our Miami roots can be seen every design.
Take a look, love it, let it spark your wanderlust and shop knowing that every piece is made by master artisans who make a proper living creating your look's most fabulous piece.
Wishing you your best summer yet.
LET IT SHINE!
-Lorena
