La Zingara: Celebrating 2 Years

I remember two years ago, on April Fool’s Day, filling out the online form to register my small business. I said to myself, “Well, at least you won’t forget the day you made it official!” Here I am 2 years later into my La Zingara journey, and I am as excited and fulfilled today as I was then, probably even more!

La Zingara translates from Italian. It means the Gypsy. For me, this means an intuitive way of thinking, understanding and being a part of the world around me.

I always knew that I was the kind of woman who would be better served working independently. Over the years, I was self taught in so many different areas; cooking, baking, teaching cooking lessons, language studies, drawing, house remodeling and renovations, sewing, painting, etc. I think you understand. If it meant that I could use my creativity, my imagination, and my hands, I was all in! It was certainly no accident that it all came together in La Zingara Designs.

What began as the gift of time with my Uncle Charlie, soon transformed into a tangible small artisan business. I learned the art of hand cutting and tooling beautiful leathers along with setting rivets from him! Every time I made one of the Bohemian Alexis Straps it immediately sold. It gave me such a boost of confidence! The funny thing is, I still can’t make this strap fast enough.

I remember having an amazing conversation with my cousin, Kathie, and telling her about what I wanted to create. What I appreciated the most in that moment was her ability to help me cut through all the outside opinions, the doubts in my mind and other’s expectations. She really helped me get to the real point of being able to move forward with my vision. It was empowering to say the least. I hope she knows just how pivotal that shared moment was with her! She is truly the one who made me clearly see the value of my one of kind artisan pieces.

My vision took on a whole life of its own when I added the Vintage Tapestry Handbags to the collection a year ago. It was the visual answer to the question I always received. “What kind of handbag complements these straps?” Early one morning I received a text from my beautiful and talented friend, JennaferGrace. She asked me if she could give me her collection of vintage remnant textiles. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I said, “Of course!” These textiles filled 8 huge duffle sized bags from IKEA. I felt my creative imagination immediately start to flow! It was a sign.

A couple of weeks later, another beautiful friend, asked if she could share her collection of remnant textiles from her interior designer days. I knew at that moment that I had forged my creative path. It was an amazing feeling.

The design for these handbags came from my desire to have my belongings secure while still being hands free. This design specifically allows for the handbag to be worn close to the body. Both the front and the back look equally beautiful. The handbag is purposely designed to be used either way. For example, when shopping at my local Farmer’s Market, I like easy access to my wallet and cash. This is when I wear the bag with the zipper showing. When I am traveling through a busy airport however, the front zipper is always turned inward, against my body for security purposes.

One of the little surprises that I try to incorporate in each tapestry handbag is a visual story or something a little unexpected. Whether it is found on the outside or the inside, it is intended to bring a touch of whimsy to the handbag and a smile to its owner.

As more and more people message me about the almost weekly release of my designs, I am thrilled by the excitement and support I receive from my customers, new and returning! This leaves me feeling so overwhelmingly grateful. I couldn’t be doing any of this without YOU!

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share my creativity and artistry with you. I’m very grateful to be able to do this kind of work.

I am currently taking a little break while I set up a new work studio. When I return there will be more amazing tapestry handbags, straps and a couple of surprises!

“Where will La Zingara Take You?”