SOME THOUGHTS ON HANDBAGS

Sometimes people ask me for help or suggestions about how to launch a handbag line. Please keep in mind that every case is very different. For me, I don’t have a background in design but I’m a handbag lover and understand concepts and ideas.

I am a firm believer that if you are serious and passionate about making an idea a reality or bringing a product to the market place, you should know this is not going to be an easy road. If this is your calling, you must take it seriously. It’s very hard work. I do know from experience that if you love what you are doing, especially if it’s your own project, you will not see it as “hard work,” you will see it as an extension of you.

I didn’t know anyone in the accessory business. My last job had been as a News Reporter for a TV Network. I then took some time to spend with my daughter while she was a baby. While at home with my daughter, I took time to develop ideas by creating drawings, prototypes and taking care of the legal process of filing for patents, trademark, etc. I had no connections in the field and literally had no clues on other steps to follow.

I decided to join a networking group for women entrepreneurs called Ladies Who Launch. Ladies Who Launch became a support system. I met many women who were in the process of starting their businesses. There are plenty of networking groups out there. Take advantage of their workshops. Talk to everyone you meet. You never know who will give you the connection you are looking for. One thing I must tell you, no organization or connection will do the work for you -- you need to do it yourself. Keep in mind that every challenge becomes a learning opportunity.

I started researching factories in the north east to make professional prototypes (prototypes are expensive). I finally found one in New Jersey. From there it was just a matter of knocking on doors and showing my product. Expect rejection. There is plenty of that but it’s part of the process.

Show your work to family, friends and most importantly prospective buyers. Get their feedback and see their reactions. There were times I would wear my bag and talk to people about it without them knowing it was actually my design. They would tell me why they liked it and how much they would pay for it. Then they would ask: Where did you get it? So, visit stores, talk to the owners or buyers, ask them if they will carry your line. Try every avenue.

Here’s another thing to consider. Once you create one product, make sure you are working on others to follow. Also, create a website. Design what your brand is going to look like.

In the end, I love what I’m doing. I love creating and seeing something come to life. As many of you know, one of the biggest challenges in business is marketing. Take every opportunity to talk about your story, what makes your product special and how it’s helping your consumers. After all, is about them, not about you. Why would anybody want to buy your bags? What is your story?

Best of luck.