My name is Tamika Occi born and raised in Miami, Florida but from a Jamaican background. I started designing at an early age using my dolls as models. My grandmother who was a seamstress would make the dresses and my mother would wear them. I was encouraged by family and friends to make this a career and after researching several designing options, I decided to focus on designing handbags. My bags are taking off and a lot of opportunities have come my way, even before my line was fully completed.

The fabrics that I use are the best quality of faux leather, silk and /or cotton lining because it’s soft to the touch along with antique hardware. The logo in the center of the bag was designed by my brother.
After graduating, I relocated and started my own business selling designer handbags online. I then decided why sell someone else’s name brand when I can design and sell my own. That’s when I started BondJshari.com

I’m a person that loves staying green, I dress in all natural material and like the concept of saving the planet. So, I decided to incorporate that in my line. We recycle everything that can be recycled in our shop and use material such as faux leather and 100% natural fibers like cotton and silk.

The value of a handbag to a woman is very important, ample amount of storage, easy access to everything as she goes on with her day. We tried to provide that at BondJshari Handbags. I remember with my very first handbag being made, I took it to an embroidery shop and they stitched the front and the back of the bag together, it couldn’t open at all. I learned two things from that BAD experience (1). Be there when someone is doing work for you for the first time and (2). When all else fails, do it yourself.

When my bags were finally completed my mother and my husband said “I’m so proud you” That was a great feeling of accomplishment, to know I work so hard a feeling of joy came over me... Stay encouraged. It’s worth it all.