Behind The Scenes: The Cass Clutch Video

For the past year [or so] I've been working on designing a handbag:  The Cass Clutch.  Having no experience in the leather industry, in sewing nor in fashion, I challenged myself to learn what I needed to learn and then some.  Working with Sven Design, a Berkeley leather studio, I had several prototypes made before settling on the final materials and design for the bag.  Vintage inspired, the Cass Clutch resonates with both modern and classic sensibilities.  Two weeks ago,  we filmed a lifestyle video for Kickstarter showcasing the bag in its many uses.  It was featured as a clutch worn under the arm, as a fashionable tote and as a stylish briefcase carrying a laptop, a clipboard and a business folder in addition to other everyday essentials.  As its release nears, I'm realizing just how much I've enjoyed the "process" of getting to know the product, all the talented people involved and the many marketing strategies for building a brand.  From scouting film locations, securing a picture car and a video team, to picking a model (and styling both the model and the home), it has all been super exciting!  I couldn't have done it without the help of all of these generous people:  NR & AR who let us use their home,  Beverly Jane Peatross, who showcased the Cass Clutch so beautifully, Noisy Savage (the accomplished men behind the cameras), Skip Z. for trusting us with his 1969 Lincoln Convertible, Jennifer from Good, Unlimited for script support and Sven Design for believing in me and masterfully guiding me along this voyage.  Many, many thanks to all of you!!   

I look forward to seeing this through!  

There are still a few things that need to fall into place before the Kickstarter campaign launches, so in the mean time be sure to follow and like Cass Clutch here and here and stay tuned for the website launch as well.  Any inquiries can be sent to info@thecassclutch.com

Thank you, and for now, enjoy some behind the scenes images from the Cass Clutch video shoot: 

Photo:  Jayson Carpenter 

Gift Giving With A Purpose: Girls On Fire

This Thursday (the 10th at 7:30pm) at Brushstrokes Studios in Berkeley, a number of local artisans and vendors will be selling their wares to help raise money for Girls On Fire.  This organization empowers Kenyan women, many of whom have been victims of gender violence and dire poverty.  Through leadership camps, young women and girls are given the opportunity to travel, learn about nutrition and exercise, work as a team and, most importantly, understand and value their own self worth. I'm looking forward to this event and hope you can attend too.  It's the perfect opportunity to holiday shop with a worthwhile purpose.  

Here are few of the participating vendors:  Erica Tanov, Ginger Craftan, Ash Dry Goods, Good On Paper and Carrie Saxl. 

House Hunting: One With Perfect Balance

This may be the one!  I love how this house relates to its setting, striking a perfect balance between indoor and outdoor living.  Tucked into a hill with lots of level land surrounding it, it provides ample space for playing and entertaining.  The common area is large and open while the bedrooms seem cozy and comfortable.  We hope to see it next week!  So much a part of buying a house is "trusting" that whatever should be will be.  This house, while it looks perfect from afar, may not be so up close OR it may have sold by the time we're ready to purchase.  This whole adventure is about taking chances......Wish us luck!