Meet Edelyn Patty

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

Hi Edelyn, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

The inspiration behind starting my own business stemmed from a deep-seated desire to bring Indonesian culture and businesses into the spotlight. I noticed that many Indonesian restaurants and artists, particularly those run by hardworking “Indonesian Aunties,” were not receiving the recognition they deserved. Their stories, struggles, and successes often went untold, and their contributions to the local cultural landscape were underrepresented in the media.

Given that the Indonesian population is one of the largest in Southern California, I saw a significant opportunity to address this gap. I wanted to create a platform where these passionate individuals and their stories could be celebrated and shared with a broader audience. My goal was to provide a space that not only honors their work but also introduces the richness of Indonesian culture to new audiences.

Finding passion in this mission has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s about more than just organizing an event—it’s about giving a voice to those who have long been overlooked and celebrating the unique contributions they make to our community.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business centers around celebrating and showcasing Indonesian culture through events and community initiatives. What sets us apart is our deep commitment to highlighting the richness and diversity of Indonesian food, art, and traditions, particularly those often overlooked by mainstream media. Our mission is to provide a platform for local Indonesian businesses and artists, giving them the recognition they deserve and creating a vibrant space where our community can connect and thrive.

One of the aspects I’m most proud of is the Indonesian Night Market, an event that has grown significantly and garnered enthusiastic support from the community. This event is not just a marketplace; it’s a celebration of Indonesian culture, featuring a variety of food, art, and performances that bring people together and foster a greater appreciation for our heritage.

The journey to where we are today has been both rewarding and challenging. It wasn’t always easy. Starting out, I faced numerous obstacles, including limited resources and the challenge of gaining visibility in a competitive market. However, the passion for our mission and the support from family, friends, and the Indonesian community have been invaluable. Overcoming these challenges involved persistent effort, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. We focused on building strong relationships, leveraging community support, and continuously improving our approach based on feedback and experiences.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. There will always be hurdles along the way, but maintaining a clear vision and staying committed to your goals can help you navigate through tough times. Additionally, embracing collaboration and valuing the contributions of others has been crucial to our success. It’s a reminder that a strong network and collective effort can make a significant difference.

I want the world to know that our brand is more than just an event organizer; it’s a passionate advocate for Indonesian culture and a connector of people. We’re driven by a genuine desire to elevate and celebrate the unique stories and talents within our community. Our story is one of dedication to cultural appreciation, community engagement, and the pursuit of making a positive impact through our work.

In essence, our brand represents a bridge between cultures, a celebration of heritage, and a testament to the power of community and perseverance.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d start the week with coffee at Slow Bloom in Redlands and brunch at Carolyn’s Cafe, exploring the charming town. The next day, we’d hit the OC Beaches for sun and sand, followed by dinner at Simpang Asia, an excellent Indonesian spot. Day 3 would be devoted to the magic of Disneyland. On Day 4, we’d dive into arts and culture with a visit to The Broad in LA, followed by a relaxing massage and hair spa treatment at a top LA salon, and then explore Mama’s Night Market for a taste of local street food and vibrant atmosphere. Day 5 would be a day trip to Balboa Park in San Diego, enjoying its museums and dynamic vibe, with dinner in the Gaslamp Quarter. On Day 6, we’d start with Martabak at Martabak Cafe in Walnut, then explore local shops or parks, and later visit the Saigon Night Market for more eclectic food and cultural experiences. Finally, on Day 7, we’d enjoy breakfast at The Grove Farmers Market and reflect on our adventures, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or discovering something new before wrapping up the week.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to take this opportunity to extend my deepest thanks and recognition to several key individuals and groups who have played a crucial role in my journey.

First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to my husband, Aldrich Patty. His steadfast support and involvement have been invaluable. He consistently steps up, often joining as a co-lead in my business ventures and passion projects.

A huge thanks to my son, Andy, for his boundless energy and passion. His enthusiasm inspires me daily and fuels my commitment to this project. I’m dedicated to ensuring that his generation can celebrate and embrace their heritage. Knowing that I’m doing this for him and his future inspires me to keep going!

I also wish to acknowledge my brother, Samuel Kumendong. His dedication and proactive approach are truly commendable. Samuel seamlessly integrates into our projects, taking on significant roles and contributing his expertise wherever necessary.

A special mention goes to my dad, Edwin Kumendong. He introduced me to the realm of entrepreneurship and has been a guiding force since the 90s. His influence and mentorship have profoundly shaped my path.

I am deeply grateful to my parents for their courageous decision to come to the United States. Their journey has allowed me to explore and embrace my own sense of authenticity here in America.

I’m grateful to the Indonesian community leaders who have believed in me and provided me with opportunities to grow and thrive in this role. Your support has been invaluable, and I appreciate everything you’ve done to help me succeed.

I want to thank our food vendors for believing in the Night Market. Your support and participation are what make this event possible. Without you, the Night Market simply wouldn’t exist!

I am incredibly grateful to all the volunteers who have contributed to making the Indonesian Night Market a memorable experience for everyone. Your hard work and dedication are essential to our success, and we truly couldn’t do it without you. Thank you for your invaluable support!

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Indonesian Night Market team. Your unwavering belief in this vision has been a crucial motivator for our journey together. From the very beginning, you embraced my ideas and shared in my passion, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to bringing this project to life. Your dedication and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in turning this vision into a tangible reality, and I am deeply appreciative of everything you’ve done to help realize this dream.

All credit to God for His continual blessings and guidance in my life.

As I wrap up my thank yous, I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to unite our Indonesian community and highlight our vibrant culture, food, and traditions. This journey has been a collective effort, and I appreciate everyone who has contributed to making this vision a reality. Let’s continue to celebrate and share our heritage together!

Website: indonesiannightmarket.com

Instagram: @indonightmarket

Linkedin: Edelyn Patty

Facebook: Indonesian Night Market

Image Credits
ARKI Productions