Meet Annika Sisac | Designer & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Annika, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Since before I can remember I’ve been going on outdoor adventures in the wilderness and deserts of Colorado. I was involved in competitive cycling, skiing, and running. At first, I loved moving my body. Getting outside with a group of friends was great for my mental and physical well-being. It gave me amazing social opportunities and helped me connect with nature. But eventually, the toxic culture of outdoor elitism took over that joy.

So, I made a change. I took a break from buckling up my ski boots for speed and challenged myself to re-channel good vibes and tan lines. As a fashionista, a crunchy one if that, I re-found joyful movement through wearing bright and fantastic outfits in the wild. When I learned

In August, with the help of BASE Camp, I created Helio, an opportunity to share this re-found joy with others, who are looking for a little pizzaz and zazzle on their outdoor adventures.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Doing things the “right” way, was never a part of my agenda. As a neurodiverse woman, I learned to find my own way to success. Redefining how we do things, problem-solving, and creating a meaningful vision, are the things that helped catapult my creativity.

My brand Helio is all about redefining an industry for the better. Through our designs and good vibes, we strive to inspire those who are non-traditional outdoor-goers. Getting out on the trails and moving your body freely should be for everyone. So, I designed clothes to spur freedom and uniqueness.

Recently I have been workshopping zero waste designs. This is a hot topic in the design world right now, and I am exploring ways I can include this type of sustainability in Helio. Whether it’s utilizing fabric scraps to patchwork into a fabric, or making a zero-waste pattern, its been a unique and stimulating challenge for me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In my ideal Tour de Denver, I would start the day off with a hike or bike ride. If you’re willing to drive, there are some great hikes outside of the City that showcase what I think is true Colorado. Wash Park laps are never a miss either. Since coffee is a must, we would hit up Kaladi, Steam, or Nixon’s right off the bike path. I would fill the afternoon with antique mall hopping on Broadway and Colfax. If you haven’t checked out Antiques Etc. or the Colorado Antique Gallery, you are missing out. Dinner would be takeout from OTOTO on a picnic blanket at Wash Park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Building a business takes a village. Even though I am a solopreneur, I’ve received immense support from my parents, my partner, friends, and the faculty at DU Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs and creatives often go at it alone most of the time. But it’s the people who are there for that late-night call, quirky brainstorm, and crucial advice that truly inspire you to keep moving forward with your concept.

I can’t tell you how many times my partner has helped me load and unload tabling supplies and products. He’s truly there for me at every high and low of my business. When I’m screen printing 50+ t-shirts after a full day of class and work, he shows up to keep me company. I am very fortunate to have him by my side.

Website: https://www.helio-designs.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helio.apparel/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-sisac-681872211/