Life Happens: At Times

Sometimes life just happens showing its effect on maturing children, aging parents, (and ourselves), instilling the realization that time is precious.  At other times, one makes life happen by opening oneself to new people, new places and new endeavors with the potential for success or failure.  Over a year ago, when I began work on The Cass Clutch, I knew I had to see this project through despite being unfamiliar with the leather industry, the manufacturing process and being a bit fearful of the unknown.  I put myself out there and now it's finally here and, although still a bit afraid, I am now determined.  Grateful for what the entire experience has taught me and no matter what becomes of it, I now know that I will be a better woman for having seen it through.  

Don't let your dreams fall by the wayside.  Make life happen, even if it scares you... 

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