We had the good fortune of connecting with Amie Ro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amie, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
In general, cycling gear for women have always been limited. From the limited options I couldn’t find anything I wanted. Most of them were just not my style and I couldn’t get into the whole aesthetic of a hardcore cyclist. I didn’t want to look like I was training. I felt like there needed to be something catered to a more fun and casual cyclist who are passionate about riding and can also appreciate the performance aspect of the sport.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I think what I’m most proud of is that I told myself I wanted to give this a try and I followed through. I fully funded this project on my own and even though it is still very small scale I’m excited that my shorts are out in the world. There were a lot of challenges with production and manufacturing. Everything was a first for me so they were all lessons to be learned. Patience is very important in running a small business. Things take time! I want my story to be a good representation of what it means to pursue what you want. It will take time but you are doing this for yourself first and foremost

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles has infinite options for food and that’s something I can’t live without. I think it’s at the top of things to check out in the city. There are so many cuisines to choose from but if I were to recommend one I’ve enjoyed going to Miracle Bakery in Burbank for a couple years now. I love the pastries they have and everything I’ve tried have been great. The older I’ve gotten I’ve enjoyed my time hiking and walking on trails. It’s a great way to destress. I think Griffith is a must when anyone visits LA. The park is big enough to find plenty of small and more quiet trails.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shoutout to the businesses that took a chance on my brand and allowed me to have a little bit of their retail space. Us being a very small brand I think it’s always easier for the stores to go with well known brands. Luft in Venice first let me have rack space in their very beautiful store. Currently, Let’s Ride Cyclery in Burbank and The Cub House in San Marino have been super kind and supportive in letting me have presence in the cycling scene. Both stores have wonderful staff and represent a great community. I also want to thank my friend Christina for willing to take beautiful photos in her spare time. Extremely lucky to have the support of close friends.

Website: rin-store.com

Instagram: rinxdesign

Image Credits
Christina Villamor and Amie Ro

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