Did you always know that you were going to be a designer?

I was always a creative and artistic person. I went to VCC for a fashion design and fine arts degree. I remember in elementary school. And there's this game and each person had a hat and people would put a good comment about you. I remember that there were 50 comments about me being able to dress well!

How did going to school lead to this big business?

I wanted a bag and I made a bag for myself and it was a ball rolling. I tried a couple and then another couple and people liked it and people started ordering them. everyone started to ask me where I got my bag. I like that you don't have to consider the body and you just have to worry that they carry well. I worked in NYC and did an internship for Libertine and I had a great response in NYC. That was sort of good and gave me some confidence about it.  

You started at 2006 and now it's a big business - was it a big struggle from the beginning?

2006 I had my designs in about 4 stores - now I have 35 now. It was a struggle working all the time. Business was not natural to me at all. 

Was there anyone giving you advice?

My parents are super supportive and my dad has his own business and he's very helpful. 

How are your designs different from others?

Each bag is made from an old leather jacket. We can find these jackets through charity events, thrift stores or Value Village. I try to stick to charity events as you know the money goes toward something. They are all one of a kind and the pockets are all different. They're made of different jackets so each bag is unique and different.

Who are the perfect people for your bags?

People sort of like me. They're young, educated that they care what they buy. They want something not because it's cool but because there's a story and it's ethical.

Who and what are your inspirations?

More art rather than fashion. I went to art school and I did sculpture and ceramics and I get inspired by forms. Even bags, the way that they are made more than a fashion idea.  

How would you describe yourself?

Fun-loving. Work hard, play hard.

Favorite place in Vancouver?

Bin 942 - I'm a big foodie.

Favorite television show?

Arrested Development 

Big plans for 08'?

I want to move out of my apartment and move to a studio place. I also want to start putting bags in Japan. I also want to get reps and go to trade shows

Where can we find your collections in Vancouver?

One of a few. It's my favorite shop in Vancouver.