Whether it's from the musicians or the fans, Mysteryland USA's air swells with visionaries. Positivity and artistic finesse are fully embraced in the festival's diverse line-up of curators, which includes the immersive Bang On! NYC, Owari No Nai, and Drumcode. The festival is considered one of the greenest in the world – but that's not just because it's set on the serene landscape of Bethel Woods, NY. Mysteryland believes in sustainability, and it encourages community interaction so that the event can be organized in the most ethical way possible.
So it's fitting that Mysteryland collaborated with design duo, Emi-Jay, in order to create an exclusive line of stylish hair-ties (which double as wristbands!). Sold in packs of three, 20% of profits will be donated to the 10,000 Hours Foundation, a non-profit that supports volunteer work for festival-goers everywhere. Mysteryland rightly labeled the accessory as "the only festival wristband that matters." 10,000 Hours assists communities in a number of ways, from refurbishing playgrounds to helping in nursing homes (and you can join them for Mysteryland USA Volunteer Day 2015 by clicking here).
Emi-Jay began when its founders, Julianne Goldmark and Emily Matson, were teenagers more than six years ago. Armed with fabric and an entrepreneurial spirit, the designers saw immense growth, and today each hair-tie is handmade in the USA on imported fabric. I had the chance to catch up with the international pair (Emily studies in Paris while Julianne lives in LA) to touch-up on festival culture and necessities.
Purchase Mysteryland x Emi-Jay hair-ties/wristbands here.
DB: It's great that you're spreading positivity by collaborating with such an impactful event like Mysteryland. With its artful roots as well as its rich history, it's the perfect outlet for Emi-Jay! What's your favorite part about festival culture?
Julianne: We’re so excited to be a part of it! I just love being with all of my friends in such a lively environment. I obviously love the music but it’s the whole experience of going with a good group, wearing fun outfits, and eating fun foods that I like most.
Emily: My favorite part of festival culture is being able to let loose in such a wonderful environment. Getting to be outside, soaking up the sun, and the amazing music make you feel like you’re away from reality and I don’t think there’s any other setting like that!
DB: Purses can be tedious at festivals. Let's say you only had a small bag or fanny pack to bring with you for the whole day. What essentials would you throw inside?
Emily: In the past, I’ve used a cute little fanny pack for festivals and I must say, I have gotten quite good at cramming to the fullest! I always have my cards, ID, and cash; gum; a Clinique chubby stick or some other kind of lip balm for the dry desert weather; hair tie back ups (since I always have one on my wrist too!); and a phone charger.
Julianne: I’ve actually never ever brought my own bag or fanny pack. I usually have my phone and a cardholder in my pockets with my ID and money. My guy friends usually have backpacks so I always find myself throwing in essentials like lip balm, a jacket for nighttime, phone charger and water (once inside).
DB: The Mysteryland USA lineup has just been released. Who are you most excited to see, if you plan on attending?
Emily: The lineup looks amazing and I’m so bummed I won’t be able to be there. But if I was, I would be really excited about Kygo and Madeon!
Julianne: I wish I could attend! If I were to, I’d be excited to see Empire of the Sun!
Grab your Mysteryland x Emi-Jay wristband 3-pack here. Read Emi Jay's interview with Mysteryland here. And you can purchase your Mysteryland camping tickets here; they're 85% sold out so act fast!