Third Daughter, Restless Daughter

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

Wone & Youa: Third Daughter, Restless Daughter

Third Daughter, Restless Daughter began not as a definitive response to create, but as a response to mimic their grandmother's Hmong legacy through embroidery. Using humor as their medium, Youa & Wone Vang developed their work -- whether it brings financial gain or not -- as a way to connect to people. The main thread that runs through their work is the dedication and candor they put into every job and project they do. Talent will only get you so far; it's the dedication and passion that you instill in your work that stands out.

Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?

Derived from the song “Second Child, Restless Child,” by the Oh Hellos, the name Third Daughter, Restless Daughter took on a new meaning when second daughter Wone formed a partnership with third daughter, Youa, who originally created the company.

What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?

Our signature style is humor and sarcasm. One of our first cross stitches was the “Stupid Dreams” piece suggesting that artists never give up on them.

What makes your business unique to the industry?

We are a duo sister team that has similar but unique humor. Our different experiences and interests are translated and integrated in our work, meaning what we create is something we have felt, experienced, or our individual strengths. As with most siblings, we are extremely critical, yet honest with each other. This honesty allows us to push ourselves to improve on our creations.

What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?

There are several roadblocks that we encounter daily, however one that sticks out is the perception of what a female Asian should act like or talk. There have been times when we have been berated about the words used in the cross stitches, usually from older men, since this isn’t how a proper woman should act or talk. Yet, male vendors do not get the same criticism as we do.

How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?

COVID-19 has thrown a wrench in our 2020 plans, especially this year because we had travel plans for events and shows to expand our audience. Coming out of 2019, we are moving at an accelerated rate with expansion by developing in new markets and communities. The pandemic and racial injustices slowed us down in a way, but it has also allowed us to reflect on the future and spend time with our family, giving us the opportunity to develop new ideas that will better serve us in the future.

We are continuing to develop our social media and virtual presence along with developing new marketing strategies. More to come.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

Our favorite part of what we do is being out at events with other humans. Though we find joy in our work, it is validated when people can find a connection when they stop by and visit our space/booth. We also enjoy connecting with all of the makers and artists through commiseration and celebrating one another’s successes.

**What is your must do local activity?**

We both love to eat (*insert action of patting our belly) and supporting local restaurants; we enjoy seeking out new restaurants to test out new dishes. Through Centro in Northeast Minneapolis, we’ve been able to take it one step further by sharing our large floral cross stitch that hangs on their back wall.

Where to find Third Daughter, Restless Daughter:

Website: 3drdcrafts.com
Instagram: @3drdcrafts
Facebook: @ThirdDRD