The bag's name is "Hewlett Avenue."  The collection for fall is centered around my reflection of my childhood.  I grew up on Hewlett Avenue.  The names of the bags are usually after the street or flea market where they were purchase.  I take the original bag and try to keep the integrity while updating it to the 21st century. Currently this line is in production for fall delivery and I am just getting back from Italy to make sure that all the skins and hardware area ready in time.

My handbag collections are handmade in small factories in Italy focusing on leather and python.  All of the hardware is custom made to each bag's specification.  The leathers used are unique: washed, fringed and hand-painted python.  My audience is looking for a bag with designer style and quality but not with the designer brand name.  She is confident with her own self and would prefer it for its beauty. I try my hardest not to look like other handbag makers and stay away from what branded designers are doing.

I had been in the women's ready-to-wear business for many years.  Clothing became very boring and I needed a change and a challenge.  I always had a longing to design handbags and after being an accessory's assistant for Macy's California using bags dating back from my teens or my mother's closet.  I even started going back to the 60's and then the 80's and got inspired to make bags that I personally loved and would want to wear again.

When the factory has made a prototype and they decide to redesign something for example like changing the scale, rearranging pockets or even reworking the handle - this what would be my version of a nightmare.  Not in the designing aspect but more so from the production angle.  Once I got to the factory for a final inspection and there was nothing ready or even started at all!!   However, the bags at the end of the day always work out.  The greatest achievement is making money at your passion and loving it.  It is definitely all worth it because my mother is able to see my dong something I love and finally living my dream.