I am a start up handbag designer who has just established my brand since last summer. I am still in the process of getting my designs and my name out to different retailers and two stores in New York City has shown interests in my designs.

I use PVC leather, because I think it works better than real leather, as they are easier to take care of and they are as good as real leather in terms of quality (even better than many Brazilian leather). My target market is Generation X, because I think they are trendy but they are also at the stage when they are mature enough not to just blindly follow the trends. Experiences make them understand their own styles yet they are still willing to enhance their styles with trendy looks. I think my bags are special because I think my clutches are pretty unisex, which is rare in evening clutches. They tend to be feminine.

I started my line in Macau 2006 in the summer. The main reason I started the line is because I would like to start my own retail store back home, but instead of carrying other designers goods, I decided to go for my own brand.  I think boyfriends can help their girlfriends to carry the clutches (my clutches) without being embarrassed. As I mentioned above, I think the styles are pretty unisex and even though they are not for men, I don't think men would look too bad or awkward carrying my clutches.

One design nightmare was sourcing for handbag factories. It was so hard, especially when I was new to the industry. I had to travel to China at least 5 times a month to find the proper factory.  My greatest achievement so far is getting selected for this contest and I think it's all worth it because my design and style finally get recognized and appreciated, which is what I am very happy for.