Founder of Augustnoa, Allison Lei!

Lindsay was never a ‘backpack person’ until she met the founder of augustnoa, Allison Lei who created the classic noa backpack. Lindsay was most impressed with the genius hidden zipper pockets on the shoulder straps-so smart! Allison clearly knew it was an inventive idea so she patented the design. It’s also made out of recycled water bottles! Let’s just say we’re huge fans of her product so much so we now sell it on the fileist.

When we discover an innovative product that makes our life easier, not only do we want to sell it but we want to dive deeper into the brains behind it… So that’s just what we did.

“Nothing is ever perfect. It’s important to hold high but realistic standards for businesses and individuals.”

Question:

Lindsay Albanese: What is one interesting thing that people may not know about your career?

Allison Lei: Coming out of college, I didn’t have a ton of direction. Luckily, I found my way in digital marketing and quickly moved up in the corporate world. However, I wasn’t fulfilled. After countless searches and not finding the perfect backpack, I decided to follow my curiosity and make the backpack of my dreams — which was how augustnoa was born.

Question:

Lindsay Albanese: During your professional journey, what is one mistake you made that you learned the most from?

Allison Lei: When I was first starting augustnoa, I put an initial deposit on a manufacture that could not match the quality I expected for my products. This mistake cost me both valuable time and money, which caused a lot of stress and headaches. Looking back now, it was a very meaningful lesson in vendor partnership: always be thorough when choosing your vendors, and be confident in your partnerships before investing in capital.

Question:

Lindsay Albanese: What are you most proud of at this moment?

Allison Lei: I started augustnoa in the middle of the pandemic.There were many uncertainties that added to the stress of starting a business. Looking back, I’m proud to say that augustnoa is growing and expanding! We’ve received so much love and support from our community. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to bring more innovative products to the market this year.

Question:

Lindsay Albanese: One thing you wish people would stop doing in business?

Allison Lei: Perfection paralysis. Nothing is ever perfect. It’s important to hold high but realistic standards for businesses and individuals. Show up, be consistent, and put in your biggest effort; things will work themselves out.

Question:

Lindsay Albanese: Your go-to beverage after a long week (specifics please!)

Allison Lei: I can never say no to a glass of red wine or aperol spritz!