Meet the founder: Marlene Smits of Urban Goddess - Blog - Yogamatters
Urban Goddess designs pieces with functionality and comfort in mind, whilst remaining conscious of their impact on the planet, that’s why everything is made from organic cotton. Founder of the Amsterdam based brand, Marlene Smits, is inspired by modern city lives: urban and practical, and mostly busy. We chat with Marlene to find out more about the brand and her inspirations. What does creativity mean to you? What inspires you to be creative? “Creativity is an expression of the soul. And I think it is important for every human being to find a way to express themselves in whatever way feels authentic. It doesn’t mean that all these expressions should strive to be masterpieces. Not at all. But they are all valuable on a soul level. Whatever, anyone thinks of them. It keeps one’s flow going.” What does Amsterdam offer to you as a maker? Are there other places that inspire you, why? “Amsterdam offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere in a village setting. The yoga community is thriving, and so it is a perfect place to experience yoga culture, from the nonsense Dutch perspective of functionality and sustainability.” How did you get into this industry? What was your first job? “I was a journalist for 15 years, working for fashion magazines like Elle and Cosmopolitan, but also the biggest online news outlet in the Netherlands NU.nl and corporate clients, for commercial assignments. And even the BBC online, for some Dutch science research materials. After that I spent another 6 years in Advertising. Before I studied journalism, I studied Couture in Rotterdam. So there has always been some link to fashion. Yoga and meditation have been a part of my everyday life for over 25 years. I started teaching almost 15 years ago.” Why is it important for consumers to continue to seek out mindful and inclusive brands? What can they do to further support? “Like everything in the universe, everything is connected. Choosing brands that have values like organic or vegan products, have a ripple effect not only on environment, treatment of humans involved in production, etc, but in fact will have an impact even on socio political and economic factors. In a way, when there is a critical mass choosing to spend their money this way, it is like voting for a better and greener earth. And thus we create a new reality.” Why is mindful and sustainable manufacturing important? Read more »
Om Yoga UK-March 2015
Om Yoga UK-March 2015
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Goddess of the Month: Marlene Smits
Female brands Archives - Blog - Yogamatters
Om Yoga UK-March 2015
