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 

Reader Giveaway: Original Handcrafted Handbag by Stitch and Made

While in LA recently, I caught up with my friend Sadiero of Stitch And Made.  Ever since I've known him (for quite some time now),  he's had an entrepreneurial spirit, a keen sense of style and the patience and know-how to sew well.  In 2013 he started Stitch And Made, a handcrafted handbag company that specializes in turning repurposed denim, leather jackets and other previously owned materials into fashion custom bags.  A while back he gave me a clutch made from an vintage leather jacket as a gift.   Utilizing industrial-strength zippers, accent colors and his signature clip, he created a sturdy and functional handbag that complements my entire wardrobe.  I've since purchased the Small Dopp Gadget Bag for Alex.  It is custom lined with water resistant fabric so it's perfect for his toiletries and he just loves it.

Take a look at the Stitch And Made bags Alex and I own and find out how you can win one of your very own below:

Sadiero has been kind enough to offer 1 Cocoon Home Blog reader a Stitch And Made Travel Bag that's perfect for storing cords, chargers and/or beauty products.  Enter to win by doing 2 of the following:

1.  Follow Stitch And Made on Instagram. 

2.  "Like" Cocoon Home's Facebook page here (if  you haven't already).

3.  Leave a comment below on how you would use a Stitch And Made handbag.

Contest ends Wednesday August 20th at midnight EST.  Winner will be announced on Friday August 22nd.  Good luck!!