Discover the captivating journeys of handbag designers who have transformed their passions into thriving careers. This episode features Olena Wills, a former math and physics teacher from Ukraine turned celebrated designer with her brand Olena New York, who shares how her upbringing as a second-generation tailor unexpectedly set the foundation for her success. You will learn how Olena's early resistance to the world of design ultimately became the catalyst for her creative journey, blending her heritage and academic background with her newfound passion for handbags.Join us as we also highlight the story of a creative entrepreneur who defied convention by transitioning from a housewife to a handbag designer. This narrative delves into how her experience as an antique dealer enriched her design perspective, weaving historical knowledge into innovative creations. The episode celebrates the spirit of self-learning, the courage to experiment, and how a Swiss watch strap maker influenced her mastery of leather crafting—a testament to curiosity and resilience driving success in the fashion industry.And for those eager to build their own brands, Emily Blumenthal, our beloved handbag fairy godmother, shares her expertise in launching a successful luxury handbag brand. We explore the balancing act between creativity and business strategy, the importance of understanding your audience and committing to sustainability. Emily's personal anecdotes, including her unexpected foray into design and passion for beekeeping, offer valuable insights for aspiring designers. The episode concludes with Olena's artistic vision, inspired by Ukrainian avant-garde art and historical architecture, underscoring the joy and fulfillment found in pursuing one's creative ambitions.Connect with Olena:https://www.instagram.com/olenanewyork/https://olenanewyork.com/ Youtube: / Handbagdesigner101-ihda | Instagram:/ Handbagdesigner TikTok: / Handbagdesigner | Twitter: / Handbagdesigner

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.