Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung of Poketo

Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung (photographed above) founded Poketo unexpectedly when they wanted to support their artist friends in a fun and creative way. They’ve kept this same attitude of creative collaboration towards the business over the past seventeen years.

Poketo is known for its minimal, colorful, functional products. The first Poketo piece, wallets designed by artists in Angie and Ted’s social circle, were introduced at an art show hosted by the couple, and they sold out that first night. Since then, they’ve developed products in practically every lifestyle category imaginable, and collaborated with brands such as Nike, Disney, Target, and Mailchimp (to name just a few). Angie and Ted believe in making art accessible by bringing it into everyday objects, and the husband-and-wife duo are constantly trying out new products. It’s not easy to always be introducing new pieces, but the reward from the innovation is worthwhile. Because Poketo wasn’t really planned — neither Ted nor Angie had prior business experience — they’re able to follow inspiration wherever it takes them.

ART FOR ALL: We’ll keep expecting the unexpected from Ted and Angie.

FULL NAMES: Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung

CITY: Los Angeles, CA

FAVE COLOR COMBO: Coral and Aqua.

BIGGEST DESIGN PET PEEVE: So many but ugly typeface.

EXERCISE OR NETFLIX? Netflix, obv.