I’m originally from Chicago and now live in the San Francisco area. I’m a mother of two girls ages 10 and 12. I opened Bari J. in 2005. I am focused on vintage inspired design with modern flair. The fabrics I choose are designs that are vintage in feel… early to Mid 20th century. I don’t use vintage fabric for durability reasons. I tend to mix patterns and eras in my designs, and I use vintage or vintage inspired details such as brooches, buttons etc. My target audience is women in no specific age group who are generally art and creative focused. They shop at places like Anthropologie and small boutiques, appreciate handmade pieces, and are looking for something different but not trendy. I’m am continually inspired by fabrics and textiles from the past. I love unique color and pattern combinations. And, I think that’s what makes my bags special. They are not your typical trend-driven style bag.

In early 2005 I started Bari J. somewhat on a whim. I had wanted to start a creative business, and had in fact been selling jewelry made from found objects and collage art to local boutiques for years, but never very seriously. Starting an actual business seemed like jumping off a cliff at the time. But I literally woke up one morning as said to myself, “If other people can do it, you can too.”. Since then I’ve been single minded about making it work and succeeding.

Our tag line is “vintage inspired design for your modern life”. The reason for this is that I focus on designs that are reminiscent of the past and incorporate modern conveniences and durability. I use a very specific process for backing my fabrics that makes them incredibly durable and all of the pieces are functional as well as pretty.

Oh. Well, there are so many nightmares to choose from. One story that stands out is the creation of our patent leather straps. I had purchased the leather from a company in L.A. and had it sent directly to the manufacturer of the straps. My first mistake was not calling to make sure it had arrived. I just spoke to them on the phone when the leather was sent, faxed a PO and thought it was basically on it’s way. However… after waiting 4 weeks to hear from them that my straps were ready, I called. I was put on hold forever only to find out that they had used my leather for another company, apologies etc, but we had to start all over again. I was getting close to a deadline, so it was particularly frustrating. Lesson: Always call to make sure your materials have been received and they are marked for YOU.

I think my greatest achievement is really the creation of the business and sustaining it through the first three years. I had a lot of nay-sayers in the beginning that are currently eating big bunches of crow. It’s all worth it because I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had in my life. The creative process makes me infinitely happy.