Interview with Jessi of MABeL™ Handbags
How did you get your start?
I’ve been designing for as long as I can remember. I have a very clear memory being in sixth grade and just knowing that I was going to be a fashion designer when I grew up. I majored in fashion design in college and one of my final projects during my sophomore year was to design and make a handbag. I really enjoyed the project and from there started experimenting and making bags for myself and as gifts. My older sister really encouraged me to try to sell my bags and after some serious fear I just went for it. I spent the summer of 2006 before my senior year of college making bags non-stop, on top of designing my senior collection. At the end of January 2008, in the midst of the craziness making my senior collection, I opened my etsy shop. From there everything has just grown! After graduating and some exciting and unexpected local press, I decided to make MABeL™ my full time job. Its all been a dream come true!
What was the first item you ever made?
I learned how to hand sew in brownies in first grade and I used to make clothes for my barbies and american dolls.
Do you have any formal training?
My mom taught me how to use a sewing machine and serger in high school. And Syracuse University is where I learned to pattern make, drape, construction and so much more!
When and why did you create your business?
MABeL™ handbags was born in November 2003. It started as a hobby, but after realizing how much I enjoyed making bags, it turned into a business in February 2007.
What is the best part of running your own business?
Working for myself is pretty great, but the thing that I love the most is seeing people on the street wearing one of my bags. It makes me so happy…I just wanted to run up to them and hug them!
and the worst?
Starting a business is so scary. You don’t know what to expect and there is always a possibility of failure, but some risks are worth taking. I have faith in myself and I’m still young. Life is too short to hesitate!
You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?
I am very inspired by pop culture and music. I also find a lot of inspiration from children. They see things in such a different way, so innocent and unaware and imaginative. To them everything is possible. I like that mindset.
Who is your favorite indie designer?
I love Yana of Supayana! Her stuff is so adorable. I’m also obsessed with John Galliano; he’s not really an indie designer, but he’s so unpredictable. I love him! His Fall 2005 Couture collection for Dior is my favorite collection of all time!
What one thing couldn’t you live without?
mascara.
What will you be wearing come spring/summer?
shorts and dresses.
wedges.
leopard print, yellow and purple.
I like to mix and match prints, too!
What music/books/magazines are you into right now?
Authors: Chuck Klosterman and David Sedaris.
Magazines: Nylon, Missbehave
Music: Hello Stranger, Her Space Holiday, the Editors, Mates of State
You’ve been very successful at selling your designs online, what advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?
Be patient. It takes time. The first few months I would sell one bag, but now I’m selling every day. I still get frustrated, but I try not to expect too much so I don’t get disappointed. You can be successful. Don’t give up! Don’t take constructive criticism personally. To be in business for yourself, you really have to develop a tough skin. Have faith in yourself and your product. If you believe in it, others will too! It make take time, but life is short so do what makes you happy.
Where do you hope you/your business will be in 5 years?
I just hope my sales will continue to progress and people continue to love my bags. I would like to start selling in stores and boutiques, as well.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received regarding your business?
Don’t under-price.
View the entire collection at www.mabelhandbags.com
