My name is Joanna Baker and I am the owner and designer of Jobie Boutique. I’m in the process of unveiling the collection for spring. The first bag of the new season is the East/West Drawstring Satchel, a shoulder bag with braided suede drawstring closure. The collection will eventually include a larger North/South Drawstring Satchel, clutch purse, and hobo bag.

I combine a variety of cotton canvas prints, leather, and suede to create my handbags. When I’m designing, I have the image of a young career woman in mind. She knows what she likes and refuses to sacrifice herself for trends. For inspiration I love flipping through fashion magazines. When I design, I consider what can be done and what solves issues. I think what makes my bags special is the contrast between classy leather and casual canvas. I value timeless prints like paisley and houndstooth that work regardless of the season.

I’ve always been an entrepreneur and crafter. My grandmother was a devoted seamstress and I like to think I inherited my love of fabric and sewing from her. My tastes and abilities have changed since I began sewing handbags. The debut collection featured funky prints and simple lines. I wanted to take this collection to the next level; maintaining the simplicity but adding design details that make my bags unique. The launch of my spring line is currently in progress. With this new signature collection, I wanted to create something functional, comfortable, and chic. I’m using braided suede to tie the whole collection together. I think it adds a rich touch to an easy-going look.

I have mini design nightmares all the time. I can’t count the yards of fabric and leather I have used on projects that didn’t work out in the end. I think the true nightmare would be figuring out all the money I put into things that failed. But it’s all part of the trial and error design process for me.

I think my greatest achievement is being able to run a business while studying as a full-time undergraduate student. I’ve learned so much through the process of starting and operating my business on a daily basis. What makes it worth it?—knowing that someday I’ll look back on my experience and realize how much it has helped me get to where I am. Also: finally designing a bag that works and I’m proud of.