Nollie: Interview with founder of Betty Belts Donna Von Hoesslin

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June 29, 2007 10:50 AM

Interview with founder of Betty Belts Donna Von Hoesslin

We talk surfing, beaches and inspiration with the founder of Betty Belts, Donna Von Hoesslin...

What made you decide to set up Betty Belts?

I'd just come out of a divorce and a life in Europe (17 years in Berlin), discovered surfing, and fell in love with it. I was a late bloomer becoming a surfer, but embraced it fully, making it an integral part of my lifestyle. I decided to move back to the US and start over with a way of life and career that included surfing on a day to day basis. So when I started Betty Belts, I made it a surf company. I created a surf team and started sponsoring contests, mostly womens'. I have been supporting womens' surfing from day one over four years ago...

How do you find so many new ideas?

I am inspired by things like nature and architecture, but also have a strong influence from dreams and nature. For example, I was intrigued and obsessed with lotus flowers on trips to Bali, how they would seemingly miraculously emerge, so pure and clean, out of murky waters. So I created the Lotus design, which inspires all who wear it as a symbol of enlightenment. Some of the designs I add to my collection are introduced to me by the Balinese artisans who make them. Sometimes we collaborate on designs too, which is always very fulfilling for both of us. They are very creative people and enjoy making new designs and seeing them have success.

Who or what inspires you?

Surfing and the ocean have always inspired me from the start. My fiancé, David Pu'u, inspires me deeply. He is a photographer and his work is just stunning. I am blessed to get to hang with him when he is shooting and be surrounded by amazingly talented friends, be a part of beautiful experiences, and encounter a lot of serendipity. And being socially and environmentally responsible inspires me.

Where's your favourite beach in the world to surf?

The one where there's no crowd, just myself and my friends and dolphins who come by for a visit and maybe share a few waves.

What message do you have to other surfer girls out there?

I always say this: Stay inspired. Life is a blessing and too much of it gets wasted on stuff that doesn't matter. Enjoy the ride! And one more thing: be a conscious consumer, you CAN make a difference!

Visit Betty Belts to buy Donna's beautiful designs, and don't forget to check out The Betty Blog.

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