Alta Outside | Turning a Dream Into Reality: The Story Behind Alta Outside’s First Product

For as long as I can remember, I've had a passion for outdoor adventures—whether it’s boating at Lake Powell, camping under the stars, or spontaneous overnight trips with my family. But every time I packed up and got ready to go, I found myself frustrated by one constant problem: the bags! There was always something missing—a bag that would keep mine and my 4 kids things organized, separate, and easy to find. I wanted something versatile enough to handle it all—my essentials, the kids’ items, food, gear—but there was nothing on the market that fit the bill.

I spent years hoping to find that perfect bag, and after coming up empty-handed time and again, I realized something: if the ideal bag didn’t exist, why couldn’t I make it myself?

So, Alta Outside was born from that very need, that very frustration. I started with a dream, imagining a bag that would be as organized as it was durable, a true companion for outdoor-loving families like mine. I thought about its design, its pockets, its zippers—every little detail—for over six years. Every adventure we took only strengthened my vision of a product that could make these experiences smoother and more enjoyable. I wanted a bag that worked as hard as we do, that kept life organized so we could focus on making memories.

From Dream to Design: Crafting the First Prototypes

I began working with local designers, then with others far away, trying to bring my ideas to life. But translating my vision into a real, tangible product was no easy task. After a few rounds of designs that didn’t quite hit the mark, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I went out, bought every sport zipper I could find, sketched out my vision, and sat down at my sewing machine.

That summer, I created two prototype bags with my own hands. Every detail was intentional, each pocket had a purpose, and I couldn't wait to put them to the test. Over the next few months, I took these bags everywhere—on boating trips, overnight stays, camping weekends, you name it. And they worked! Finally, I had a solution that kept everything organized, accessible, and separated—a bag that could keep up with our adventurous lifestyle.

A New Chapter: Taking Alta Outside to Market

Using these handmade prototypes helped me refine my vision further, and I knew this was something other adventure-loving families would appreciate as much as I did. So, I began working with a supplier to create a third prototype that would meet my high standards for quality and functionality. I’m currently waiting for this next iteration to arrive so I can continue testing and refining it, preparing it for launch.

After years of dreaming, designing, sewing, and testing, I’m finally so close to bringing Alta Outside to life. This brand is not just a business for me; it’s a mission to solve a problem that so many adventurers face and to bring ease and organization to the journeys we love. I can’t wait to share these products with you, to hear how they make your own adventures smoother, and to grow this community of families who live life to the fullest.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I’m thrilled for what’s to come and can’t wait to get these products into your hands!

Sincerely,

~Jessi