Hi, I’m Julia. 

My dream started around 5 years ago. In my full-time marketing job, I was privileged to be surrounded by artists and other inspiring people, but I knew that if I was going to work in a creative environment all day, I wanted my efforts to be directed at something I truly loved and felt passionate about. 

A few years ago I discovered a custom handbag store. I loved the concept, but I wasn’t impressed with the styles or the textiles they offered for customizing the bags. I thought they looked basic – at least, for the prices they were asking for. Why couldn't the styles be more interesting, more fashion-forward? And I wondered why they weren't made of leather, which would certainly make for a higher quality and more unique handbag.

Good ideas, but were they possible?

Well, I got to work. For 2.5 years, I earned my MBA to gain a solid foundation in business and entrepreneurship. During that time, I also did tons of research into the handbag and manufacturing industries; developed a solid business plan; designed a dozen handbag styles; worked with sewers and pattern makers and consulted with leather workers; hired a web guy and a few designers to establish my highly interactive website and develop my brand; worked with legal, financial, and visual experts to ensure my plans were sound; and purchased all of my materials. 

I’m proud to say that 100% of my supplies come from companies in the U.S. - including my lambskin, which is straight from New York's historic Garment District. And somewhat serendipitously, I found a small business right here in the Midwest to produce my handbag orders one at a time, each bag different from the next. Leather working is a dying art, so the fact that I can drive just a few short hours to meet with my manufacturer is amazing luck. I believe keeping sales and labor and production here in America is so important to our country right now. 

Now what?

This is where you come in! I've made a few bags for friends and family, but I can't go big unless I can show my concept to editors and get inside showrooms. To do this, I need to fund the production of 8 more leather handbag samples; hire a professional to photograph them; work with a graphic designer to design and feature them in a look book; and utilize fashion PR contacts to get them in front of influential people in the industry. All aspects of this project are vital to the success of Darlington Originals.

I realize I'm asking for a lot! But I hope I've inspired you to support my passion and help Darlington Originals become one of only a few custom leather handbag companies in the country. 

Know that I'm forever grateful for your role in making my dream a reality. 

A few of the rewards!