Melgarita

Today’s featured shop is Melgarita, started by Mel in June of 2013. Known for her party famous margaritas, her nickname stuck and became her shop name. Mel designs, sews, and sells handmade purses, clutches, and bags. While she isn’t afraid to stray from her favorite designs, her true passion is her handmade purses, clutches, and bags. A firefighter from Atlanta, Mel now lives with her husband in Parker, Colorado. (the two got married Oct. 27, 2012 – happy belated anniversary!) After the move, Mel wasn’t sure she was fit for the fire service and turned to her hobby. What started out as making a diaper bag for a new mom and other gifts for family turned into her shop and business! But sewing isn’t new to Mel, she once sewed industrial harnesses and equipment for firefighters and rescue personnel. Graced with a large industrial machine, Mel can use heavier materials for her purses such as leather. “What girl can resist a a great pair of shoes and new leather handbag?  Now I get to make the art I like to wear!“

 “The best thing about making handmade art is that each item is unique and special.  It’s also why I was drawn to sell on etsy. I’ve done production work in the past and it was not my forte… I tend to get bored.  Having a background in design (architecture) I’ve always been the designer and creator instead of the mass producer.  I like to tweak new designs and play with material and textures.  It keeps things fresh for me and my customer.“

While some shop owners have favorite items that they sell, Mel’s favorite is every changing. “I really enjoy having each item I start evolve into a functional item. My husband used to teasingly say I was a “bag lady” since I’ve always had totes and pouches to keep things organized.  Now he is truly believing it as I try to create something new everyday.  And yes… some never make it to the shop to sell! 🙂“

Selling: holiday leather clutch.

Melgarita features handmade purses that will surely impress! Mel is also offering free shipping tomorrow, Friday November 15th. Just use code: FREESHIPNOV15 and you’ll find with a lovely, unique bag! Be sure and check out Melgarita! You’ll find something you can’t resist!