Other than pounding the pavement going door-to-door to boutiques, in-person events like this trade show are the most effective tactic for getting a company's name out there. 

And since the San Francisco Gift Show closed, there hasn't been a wholesale market that would showcase the unique work of designers of hand-crafted gifts and home accessories, and attract Bay Area independent boutiques and retailers.  This is why a small rep group stepped up to do just that.  They know what it's like to be a vendor - and they they make you feel like a partner and a teammate, not another body filling a booth to cover their rent. 

Customers have been asking for a few years for a backpack, but most packs as I know them are sporty & utilitarian, covered in nylon strapping, and awkward in crowded places.

I knew I wanted a drawstring closure and skinny straps to not break the line of my clothing or cause undue attention to my chest– something that looked like I wasn’t wearing a bag at all.  I first tried with a small flap. After a few months of prototypes and a feedback from a few early-testers, I found that it was better to make the flap much larger and add a zipper.

Such a treat to meet loyal fan for 10+ years Marisa @vegucated stop by our #craftsoncolumbus booth today with her Charleston large hobo! #veganhandbags #madeinusa #craftshow

We are so excited for our booth at Spring Crafts on Columbus - it starts this weekend! In NYC on Columbus Ave & 77th street. We will be there all 3 weekends: 11-6pm!