Hello Friend: Q&A with Jordan Bentley

Hello Friends, we're excited to share with you the Hypland x Sanrio collection. But first, meet Jordan Bentley, Owner and Creative Director of Hypland. Find out his inspiration behind the Hypland x Hello Kitty collection and more

And don't forget to check out the supercute collection! Select styles now available on Sanrio.com.

Hello Jordan! Can you share a little about yourself and what you do?

My name is Jordan Bentley, I am from Los Angeles California, I'm 24 years old & I am the owner and creative director of Hypland (the coolest brand in the world haha). 

When did you first get introduced to Sanrio? Do you have a favorite character?

I was first introduced to Sanrio when I was a toddler. My mother has been a huge Hello Kitty fan since she was a child, so I remember vividly seeing Sanrio products and characters in our home. Badtz-maru would have to be my favorite right now, his attitude is hilarious.

What was your inspiration for the Hypland x Hello Kitty Collection

For this collection, I was inspired by a few things. I was first inspired by the Hello Kitty 40th anniversary hardback book that Rizzoli released. Reading that book really motivated me to try and push the boundaries for product design and customer experience. Throughout the design process I kept thinking and asking myself “how can I create something special and be mentioned in the next anniversary book.” For specific design focus, I was really inspired by the fun nature of Hello Kitty and wanted to create designs that aligned with this fun nature. The collection is really about having fun and what's more fun than a carnival? haha 

We love the carnival theme of this collection! What’s your favorite carnival sweet treat must have? 

Funnel Cakes are the BEST sweet treat. Gotta have the strawberries with the whip cream on top too!

Being an entrepreneur, what drives you creatively and what keeps you motivated?

I am honestly most motivated by my family, friends, and my team. In business there are so many opportunities to provide and not only help yourself grow but those around you as well. I feel like I'm not only working for myself but I also have my loved ones on my back. For creative inspiration, I am most inspired by the things I see on a day to day basis. I feel like there are so many things that you can pull inspiration from by just being outside and around people.

Any advice for young future entrepreneurs?

My best advice is: If you're going to get into business, then don't put your foot in the water, just jump in and don't be afraid. I feel like a lot of the time people move carefully so that they do not fail or make mistakes when really those are the experiences that really make you great. Also - be consistent and never stop learning. No matter how good you get, there's always something more to learn.

To shop the supercute Hypland x Hello Kitty Collection click here.