Our Story
We build from the inside out, ideas first, people next, connections always. The Originators’ Collective creates meaningful intersections between creatives, makers, and visionaries through thoughtful events and experiences that spark collaboration, elevate craftsmanship, and cultivate community.
WHO WE ARE
Longtime friends and creative collaborators Alicia Lo and Claudia Juestel founded The Originators’ Collective with a shared belief: the most powerful ideas begin at the center, with a spark, a conversation, a moment of curiosity, and expand outward to bring people together in meaningful ways.
Both well-established in the design community, they are known for their versatile creative talents, their deep roots in San Francisco’s cultural landscape, and their instinctive gift for connecting people. Together, they envisioned a new kind of creative engine, one where ideas flow freely, shape experiences, and ignite collaboration across disciplines.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
In a city defined by innovation, craft, and cultural richness, Alicia and Claudia set out to honor the people who make San Francisco and the Bay Area extraordinary. This ever-evolving community includes: artists, architects, interior designers, artisans, furniture makers, boutique brands, showrooms, builders, manufacturers, photographers, jewelry and fashion designers, culinarians, restaurateurs, small-batch F&B producers, retailers, and media—visionaries united by the belief that great art, architecture, design, craft, and cuisine should be driven by passion, not mass production.
WHAT WE CREATE
From this shared vision, The Originators’ Collective emerged as a central point of creation, a source of ideas and concepts that radiate outward to shape the collaborations, gatherings, and imaginative experiences we bring into the world.
Each idea becomes a moment where makers meet thinkers, where talent meets opportunity, and where creativity meets purpose.
HOW WE WORK
Every event begins with an idea and expands in layers, rhythms, and patterns. Alicia and Claudia build from the inside out, ideas first, people next, connections always. They curate environments where new partnerships form organically and design experiences that bring diverse communities into alignment, allowing collaboration to unfold naturally, generously, and vibrantly.
WHAT WE CHAMPION
Their work is grounded in the belief that true luxury is not about status, but substance, found in passion, craftsmanship, originality, and the human stories behind each creation.
By shifting the lens toward artisans, small studios, independent brands, and local innovators, The Originators’ Collective celebrates the beauty of work made with heart and the value of creativity that cannot be replicated. The Collective uplifts established and emerging designers, boutique brands, and makers. It champions integrity over mass production, authenticity over imitation, and cultivates a culture of discovery where creativity is nurtured, supported, and shared.
OUR IMPACT
With every gathering and collaboration, The Originators’ Collective gives back, supporting small organizations that create meaningful, lasting impact within the community. The Collective serves as the connective center for a community of visionaries who believe that creativity should bring people together. It honors the dreamers, the doers, and the makers who keep the spirit of San Francisco alive.
