We Design Handbags

For as long as she can remember, New York native, Lesia Griffin has always wanted to own and operate her own business, but that has not been a reality until recently. Griffin, a graduate of Hofstra University majoring in Audio-Radio Communications, didn’t find her calling as a handbag designer until a little boost from her friend a couple of years ago. Today, she owns and operates a handbag design company called 144 Collection.

“I started taking sewing classes two years ago as a fun hobby,” said Griffin. “I loved making the little pouches we made in class. I had always wanted to have my own business since I was in college. I was talking with a friend of mine and she said, ‘Why don’t you start a handbag business?’” I didn’t think I could do it, so I didn’t think anything of it until last year. I started creating patterns and the rest fell into place.”

Two years later, Griffin’s business is off to a great beginning. She currently works part-time and creates around 100 to 200 bags each year but hopes to increase those numbers in the near future.

“I would describe 144 Collection bags as unique retro handbags,” said Griffin. “I try to pick unique fabrics that stand out. I wanted to create handbags and accessories that were unlike something that you would find at a retail store. I basically come up with an idea for a bag from images I see in life. I created a handbag pattern shape from looking at the stone columns on the New Jersey Turnpike.”

While Griffin loves the creative side of her business, she describes the business end of her venture as being stressful. And the road has not always been smooth. There have been a few potholes.

“I went out and made signs with my logo on it for a retailer which ultimately wound up not buying any of my bags,” explained Griffin. “Needless to say, the signs cost me a pretty penny. I learned an important lesson from doing that. I actually started writing down all of my mistakes in what I call the handbag diaries so I don’t repeat them again.”

Currently Griffin sells her creations online at http://144Collection.etsy.com; www.pinsandtomatoes.com; and www.mybonnieandclyde.com. Griffin started out on Etsy, a site where people can showcase their handmade items, with only a few bags. Once she started selling handbags she increased the amount of items that were available on the site.

And what advice does Griffin have for those wanting to get started in the handbag business? “Research everything about creating handbags; take a class on creating and manufacturing handbags; and most importantly get a mentor,” said Griffin. “A mentor will be able to guide you and help you with any questions you have. My mentor has been like a guiding light for me especially on the business end.”