by R. Asmerom
Like many entrepreneurs, Elizabeth Laine started her business on passion and patience. She’s a relative newbie to the world of entrepreneurship, having started her line of luxury handbags earlier this year. As an up-and-coming retail entrepreneur, we talked to Laine about how she started her line and how she keeps it going.
Did you always want to start a handbag business?
I have always wanted a business since I was very young. I didn’t know that it would be a handbag line but knew it had to be something I had a passion for.
What experience in design or retail did you have prior to launching this line?
I graduated college with a major in Fashion Design. I have 7 years of retail sales & management experience for high end boutiques. I have also interned for 3 well established contemporary clothing designers.
How did you decide on a handbag and purse line?
The ideal for my handbag business came when I made a case that I could carry either my cell phone or camera in. After the excitement of making a such a stylish case, I began to show family & friends. To my surprise they also wanted a case for their selves & the orders started rolling in. After gaining confidence from sales of the cases I decided to go bigger & better by focusing on making a luxury handbag business that expresses the many sides of me, from business to casual.
Can you describe the process it takes to produce a handbag?
The process of making a handbag starts with a sketch. Next you decide what materials to use. The last step of the process is making a sample.
Do you do the designs yourself and where do you manufacture your product?
All designs are created by me from the sketch of the handbag to making the pattern & selecting the materials for each style. The handbags are made in Los Angeles. It was very important to keep production in the United States for two reasons. With our country being in a recession I felt it was necessary for me to make sure my business recycled the American dollar. The second reason is because having quality handmade products is the main focus of my brand. It is top priority for me to be able to monitor the production of the handbags being made.
Is this a full time project for you or a part-time project?
This has been a part-time project for me. With sales increasing, I’m in the process of making it a full-time position.
How many people work for the business?
I work by myself currently. Any additional assistance I need is contracted out.
What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned since starting this business?
The greatest lesson I’ve learned is to stay focused on the bigger picture. It is important to motivate yourself and not wait for the acceptance of others. [Another lesson I’ve learned] is hard work always pays off.
What are your short term goals and long term goals for your business?
The short term goal I have for my business is to be recognized as a luxury brand internationally. My long term goal for the business is to expand the brand by adding shoes, ready to wear garments & home decor.
