Our Story

American Buddha Co. was founded by Adrian Brady-Cesana and Ashlee Newcomb. Adrian, a native upstate New Yorker and Ashlee, a native to the DC Metro area, both currently live in New York City (where they met) and are avid domestic and international travelers.

The term “American Buddha” started out as an inside joke between Adrian and the rest of the Southeast Asian population during their first trip to the region — possibly something to do with his grand stature. However, the term blossomed into more — the duo’s instant fascination and appreciation for the Asian culture and Buddhist beliefs (as well as the people who have embraced this way of life) was something they wanted to bring back to the States and to the rest of the world.

In addition, they aim to bridge the gap between the relatively untouched, beautiful countries across the globe to the hungry masses of travelers AND entrepreneurs at home — to partner with and change the socioeconomic landscape of these global regions. And to create awareness and interest in all of the amazing, undeveloped places that await all of us, far away from the comforts and safety of home.

American Buddha Co. launched in Spring 2017, a lifestyle and travel-media brand focused on making “happiness a habit.” In the turbulent and ever-changing world we live in today, there's not enough regular reminders to simply be happy -- just as Buddha taught several millennia ago.