Maddy Nash

September 21, 2012

I am thrilled to share not only a favorite new clutch of mine, but a local designer as well. Meet Charity Ohlund, better know as Maddy Nash. These beautiful clutches are handmade and custom designed for you. And you know what else? You can choose a sweet little tag line to be placed inside your clutch to personalize it even more! Think of what a great gift this would make! This is my clutch! I wanted a reminder when I open my bag to embrace the moment!

I love how the blue pops when I open my bag! My tag line? "Live as if this is all there is"

It is a perfect size to hold a few basic essentals, phone, credit cards, lipstick, and a compact!

The BF and I go to dinner out quite often, but I don't always remember to change my handbag to a smaller clutch. but I have steadily started to make it a point. I have been adding a few smaller clutch bags to my wardrobe recently and this one is a top favorite. The geometric print, and the pretty lining definitely draws attention when I am out. I also love the fact that I can drop it in my large tote for daytime running around, and then pull it out when I just need to grab my essentials. I remember when Charity and I first met in person, she was carrying her clutch running errands with her little boy, and I thought to myself how chic, and trendy she looked!

I couldn't resist asking Charity to share with you a little bit about the process and her vision.

What are some of the things you look for when choosing a new fabric?

1. When choosing fabrics, I look for three things. First it has to impact me immediately. I love the moments when I literally squeal upon finding a fabric that I love. Second, it has to fit into the Maddy Nash fabric family. I spend hours (no, make that days or weeks) lining up fabric swatches... removing one, adding another, trying dozens of different combos until the entire collection looks like a cohesive family. Third, I envision how each fabric could be worn by a woman as part of an overall look. Does it add a bold pop of color? Would it look just as fabulous with jeans and a white tank top as it would with a little black dress? If it fits these three criteria, then bingo!

What made you take the plunge and start your own line?

2. I didn't start out making handbags with a business in mind. I was just making gifts for friends and family that I thought were cute. As more people asked if they could buy one, I was really surprised each time. Then a friend who has her own successful company took me to coffee one day and gave me that extra bit of push. She said, "You can do this. You need to do this." Sometimes it is that vote of confidence from a trusted mentor that opens your eyes to your own dreams. From that day, Maddy Nash has continued to grow and evolve into a bigger success than I could have ever imagined. And we're only 8 months in!

Share a little bit about your own personal style, what would we find in your closet and in your home?

3. My personal style is mostly classic pieces in blacks, greys and whites. It is in my jewelry, handbags and accessories where I like to make a statement. I'm obsessed with hats, scarves, big rings, unique bracelets, layered necklaces and of course, graphic and bright handbags.

At home, I'm crushing on wallpaper. We just did our dining room in a modern silver on white print. My husband is Swedish, so our surroundings are a bit minimalist/Scandinavian - with bold colored Maddy Nash fabric throw pillows everywhere :)

Where do you see your company in 5 years?

4. Gosh....5 years. I couldn't have dreamed what has happened in only 8 months. So I'm sure that 5 years is going to shock the hell out of me! I just framed a quote in my studio that says, "If your dreams don't scare you, they aren't big enough."

I have 2 new products that I'm launching in the next few weeks, and I will continue to add new products every season. I envision myself as the Vera Bradley of the next generation. I am deeply committed to keeping production in the United States and to supporting charitable organizations with a portion of Maddy Nash's sales. I hope to announce a charitable partnership at the beginning of the holiday season in late October this year.

What fabric would you say is your best seller?

5. The best selling fabric last season was Chevron Turquoise & White. The best seller going into fall has been Wavy Navy. BUT, my new fabric called "Motley" (see it at maddynash.com) has received a huge response. Stores were pre-ordering that fabric before I even put it on my site. People always ask me my favorite, and I can't choose. They're all my children. :)

Thanks Charity!

So here are the details to owning your own custom Maddy Nash. Enter to win by following the instructions with the rafflecopter form below. Remember, I will be verifying entries, so make sure you follow the steps!

a Rafflecopter giveaway