Tell us a little bit about your shop and how you got started:
As the owner and designer of SuzanneBag, I use vintage fabrics and buttons to create one-of-a-kind handbags that are bright, colorful and far from ordinary.
After spending 20 years working in the legal industry in the Dallas, Texas area doing a job that was incredibly stressful, tedious and soul-robbing, it was actually a relief when I was laid off in 2009. It gave me the opportunity to enter a new phase in my life. I have always been considered creative, but have never used that particular talent as a career choice until now.
SuzanneBag allows me to seek out and find vintage fabrics and buttons that many people might overlook because they are perceived as “old” and present them in a fresh new way. I focus on Hawaiian and mod fabrics of the 60′s and 70′s because of their amazing colors and textures; you just don’t find gems like these anymore. Fortunately, I have been the ability to visualize how these fabrics will look in the form of a handbag before I ever cut the first piece.
How does the ocean/beach inspire you?
The beach draws me in ways I find hard to explain. Growing up in a landlocked state, I now crave time spent near the ocean. The trade winds, the endless ebb and flow of waves, the constant changing color of the water, I can spend hours on the beach and never tire of the ocean's beauty.
What is your favorite beach destination? Why?
Hands down, my favorite beach destination is the island of Kauai. It boasts more beaches on that one island alone than all the other Hawaiian islands combined. More specifically, my favorite beach is Ke'e Beach, which literally means at the end of the road. It is the last beach on the north shore where the road ends and the Na Pali Coastline begins. The island, as well as it's beaches, is relaxed, uncrowded and pristine. The water is clear and perfect for snorkeling, with a tree line that allows for shade. It's simply perfect!
Anything else we should know?
My husband and I were married on Kepuhi Beach on the island of Kauai nearly six years ago. We have also been privileged enough to visit the island on six separate occasions. By far, it is our favorite place on earth. This inspired my use of vintage Hawaiian muumuus of the 60's and 70's to create many of my handbags. The barkcloth used on the dresses has such great texture and design, it makes wonderful handbags. Our love of the island has also led us to learn more about the Hawaiian culture and history. We even chose a traditional Hawaiian wedding ceremony, which is conducted partially in Hawaiian and partially in English and also includes chanting. It was absolutely the most beautiful way a couple could be married on a white sandy beach in Hawaii.
*Suzanne
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