How I Started My Own Italian Handbag Brand at 21 Years Old / Vogelle

#smallbusiness #entrepreneur #fashiondesigner #handbags #femalefounder #madeinitaly #italianleatherhandbags
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Website: www.vogelle.com/
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New collections coming soon :)
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[@sisterkerry]

I really hope this doesn't sound patronising, but I am probably old enough to be your grandmother so please forgive me if it seems that way. I was so impressed with your courage and work ethic. The spirit to travel and learn is unusual these days. I was also impressed that you saved your money, rather than incurring debt; that you met and formed good business relationships with all your suppliers. This will always ensure people take care to produce quality for you. It was also so smart to buy the cheap bags, take them apart and learn the anatomy of a bag. My goodness, this type of knowledge and skill would be unusual in someone twice your age. The fact the bags are so classic, timeless and beautiful is the result of the qualities of character you have. I really wish you every success.

[@Vogel_laura]

This was such a heartwarming comment to read today. Thank you so much for taking the time to watch this video and to leave such a nice and encouraging comment. I sincerely appreciate your support and all of the very kind things you said about me. I wish you all the best!

[@clairehenderson6743]

You go girl 💪 You're mindset is inspiring! Good luck with the brand, I love it! 😊

[@Vogel_laura]

Thanks so much Claire! :)

[@shaimariexx]

I’m so glad you posted this. I’m currently working on my own handbag line and this is inspiring. I’ve been researching and speaking with suppliers for a year now. This gives me so much hope. Thank you for posting this!

[@Vogel_laura]

Keep going girl! Glad I could inspire you a little bit. Thank you for watching & good luck!

[@ernestinaakweshie4398]

Please let us know when is in. Will love to purchase and be your first customer ❤️

[@shaimariexx]

@@ernestinaakweshie4398 thank you so much. I will definitely put it in here.

[@hotinstaz]

I also think to start too..but i find its hard to design and find manufacturer..😌 i really hope that I can achieve as you..

[@mimza1383]

I'm your plug if you need Beaded bags made in Africa.

[@dakotadilger9926]

I am so inspired by this video! I 100% agree with you that people can only relate to you to a certain extent. My best friend at the time even called me a loser when I told her I quit my job and we stopped being friends. Even though in my heart I knew I would one day quit my office job but some people only have “corporate America” in their minds. I wish you all the success taking the leap in entrepreneurship.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much! It definitely can be lonely - just keep your mission in mind and keep going!

[@quezazi759]

This is a wonderful piece. I applaud you for your courage,tenacity and spirit. I like how you worked for what you wanted and how you intuitively understand the power of customer service. Kudos my dear!!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much, that means a lot! Thank you for watching & supporting :)

[@evie5495]

i’ve wanted to start my own bag/luggage brand for a while now. i’m 14 and i hope i can when i’m older. you have inspired me so much by sharing your journey, of course it’s not going to be easy but i’m excited. thank you laura and i really love your products :)💕

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you for watching and for commenting. Good luck!😊

[@mimza1383]

If you are into beaded pearly bags. I'm your plug. Made in Africa

[@barbaramelville6320]

Me too since I stated at 5 collecting purses 👛 I love ❤️ frame bags from the good old days 60s. On up I love ❤️ them but I can’t find them anymore vintage shops but terrible condition so I want to buy a new one ☝️ any help with finding a new one ty so much for sharing your gorgeous collection love ❤️ all the bags. !!!! To

[@theeikiring379]

Thank you for this inspiring story, you have covered most aspects of business, this is helpful as I want to add hand bags to my fashion and design business. Yes starting is the biggest challenge. The rewards are unbelievable. When you are at the right place at the right time with the right people, God makes magic happen

[@lon7367]

I especially like the green and blush pink! Those are two of my favorite colors to pop with my outfits.

[@SK-eg6cw]

Hi Laura, This is an amazing story. Congrats to your own handbag brand at such a young age. Today it is nearly the end of 2021 and I do hope that 2022 will become a great success for you. I have been to Boulder and Denver in 2012 the last time. Kind regards from Berlin, Germany. ☘🥂🌞👜.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much for watching! I love Berlin, I was there in February of 2019. Cheers to a successful new year!

[@AyandaBailey]

Your handbags are so beautiful 😍😍… congratulations on your business 👏🏾. Thank you for doing this video it’s so encouraging.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you Ayanda! Means the world.

[@obunny3251]

I keep going up like the video as she tells the story, then I see I have liked the video already. Her excitement is infectious.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much

[@imanelaanaiya3621]

Such an inspiring woman! I travelled to Italy lately and I kept on saying that an italian hand bag brand would be such a cool project idea to pursue, and your video is so helpul, it's not an impossible thing after all! Thank you

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you for sharing! I'm glad you found this video to be helpful. :)

[@nms6431]

Uhhh love ya girl!... I gotta buy one this video was exactly what I need today... as I slave away making mine! Proud of u girly!

[@primalpickle]

Wow so amazing to watch your story! A miracle made possible by your dedication!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much Paula! So proud of you as well :)

[@vivianodega990]

Thank you so much for such an inspiring video, I cannot even express how grateful I am to have come across your video. As someone who has always wanted to start a bag line, but I was so confused on how to even continue, because I have tried a couple of manufacturers in my country and they have messed up the orders, this video just gave me a great level of insight an understanding and encouragement to keep going. I am definitely patronizing to support the brand. Also I would be in Colorado this summer for a summer work and travel exchange program. I would love to ask alot more questions and I don’t know if you would be cool with me sending you an email to talk

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Vivian - thank you so much for taking the time to watch my video and leave such a nice comment. Starting a business is HARD but it truly takes the diligence to make sure that you have a product worth selling. Keep going and feel free to message me on IG @vogel_laura if you have any questions or want to chat. I'm always here! xx

[@sydneyduval]

an inspirational QUEEN. proud of you forever Laura💕

[@Vogel_laura]

So much love for you!

[@Muslimsguidance]

I love this ! congratulations for your brand💐

[@darlenelevesque2261]

So proud of you got emotional at the end after listening. , so brave keep it up, beautiful hand bags

[@Vogel_laura]

This comment made my whole week. Thank you Darlene!

[@catherinefell6147]

Yes girlll, killing it!! Miss you 💕

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you! Need to see you ASAP!🖤

[@victorialopez5971]

Wow those are such beautiful and simple bags. I love them. I’m currently dreaming of this as well. Good job beauty!!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much! You can totally do it too :)

[@growandglowlife]

So proud of you!!! Go QUEEN! The bags are darling! You are so smart don’t stop being AWESOME, love seeing other ladies creating and shining! You better Grow and Glow 😆

[@beingleav]

Beautiful story. I have a dream of creating and designing a global fashion brand. This is dope!

[@jadesaichai]

So glad I found your channel. These bags are bomb. You’re beautiful!!

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Jade, thank you so much!! So are you :)

[@stephaniag2415]

Miss Vogel you did an excellent job!

[@popyNcorny]

I just purchased an original in black a couple days ago! I am so excited to receive it. I love how simple and chic it looks. Sometimes simplicity is the way to go

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much for your purchase! I am excited for you to receive your bag as well. So grateful for your support! Simplicity can be very underrated sometimes :)

[@craftsidehustle]

Very inspiring! So glad I found this video!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you!

[@feitengbags]

I like it, this year I also want to show our products on website to let more people know us ,and I will learn more to improve all. Thank you for giving us so much hope.

[@Vogel_laura]

Sounds great! Good luck with everything!

[@KM-yw2yb]

Thanks for sharing this. All the best to you!

[@bjoneswhite306]

I hope all see this and has begun your dreams of having your own purse line. I’m excited for myself. God bless you all

[@barbaramelville6320]

I’m in love with purses 👛 since I’m 5 been collecting my love for the bags omg I need to buy 1. Love ❤️ love ❤️ love ❤️ 👛 ty so much for sharing new subscriber

[@Sebahtubman]

Love everything about this. Pure Admiration.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much!

[@philipchidima6714]

I'm liking your new brand bag and looking forward to making a handmade handbag from scratch and I hope the money will come my way

[@Vogel_laura]

I hope so too!

[@sofiehdez]

Girl these bags are AMAZING! Definitely buying one and bringing it with me to Italy this summer! I LOVE the green color

[@Vogel_laura]

This made my day! Thank you so much, it means the world🥰

[@DP-sb3kg]

I am glad she was safe during this time. I don't know about the rest of you but as she is describing how she went with these people around the city but so many events that could have gone wrong in a different country. Gosh I am thinking Taken...

[@Vogel_laura]

It's definitely risky to travel as a solo female, but I have also found it to be an extremely empowering and enriching thing for me to do in life. I always take measures to ensure my safety.

[@summersojourner]

I was thinking the same thing. Glad you stayed safe.

[@saf1999]

Love this story and breakdown. Thank you

[@Vogel_laura]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@paranormaltakeoff1449]

Your bags are SO ADORABLE! I’m struggling to expand my business and you are so talented 😍 please send me tips and tricks pleaseee ✨

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you! I sincerely appreciate the compliment. I will continue making educational business content here - stay tuned!

[@hannahramrattan1676]

Thanks for sharing..you're selfless..l also started doing bags..May God bless you..

[@Tj.felice]

Wow I’ve been looking for months on how to create my own handbags I want to create them myself but I’m just learning thank you

[@inspojunky1264]

Right like I need a manufacturer 😭

[@Vogel_laura]

Glad it was helpful!

[@femalehustlecowithzee]

Inspiring . Congratulations on your success!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you!

[@valentinemontocchio3475]

Hi Laura! So glad KZbin suggested your video to me!! Wow, I’m truly inspired by you and your dedication but also immense talent!! I wish you continuous success and have subscribed to your accounts so cannot wait to see how you develop! PS: will you restock the white original shoulder bag soon? 🙈😍♥️

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much for watching! I'm glad you found my video to be helpful. Thank you for subscribing! Keep an eye out for spring '23. :)

[@specificanswerstv8886]

I'm excited to hear your encouraging story. I wish to work with you someday. ✌🏿

[@gretamichelle8514]

Love them I need one!!

[@reneescalzini7228]

What a great story and you seem like a lovely person! Your bags are beautiful and I have been on a similar journey. Sounds like the right people kept crossing your path which is AMAZING!! Do you recommend any resources for manufacturers in Italy that can do small runs? I have a prototype, just need a quality manufacturer. I haven't had one cross my path! :)

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Renee, thank you so much for this sweet comment, I appreciate it! My best recommendation would be to network within Italy at vendor and supplier trade shows. I know there is one in July in Milan! Try searching for vendors even on websites like that and do some initial reach out. The way that I met my manufacturer was completely organic, so I do not have much experience with the networking side of when one is not in Italy. If you could take a trip and meet some people in person, that would likely yield stronger results for you! Wishing you all the luck!

[@reneescalzini7228]

@@Vogel_laura thanks! Networking is definitely the way to go. I haven’t been to Italy since the pandemic. My SIL lives in Milan, I guess I need to visit!

[@bjoneswhite306]

Also had to stop and piggy back off what you said about you just discovered shoulder bags. They’ve been around since 90s and briefly left the scene for a hot minute never totally disappeared

[@Vogel_laura]

Totally a trend that has been around - Fendi baguette bag - and is now having another moment!

[@farahyasin748]

Laura vogel i m from Pakistan and i just love your personality the way u r is so nice and your smile your satisfaction i just love you. After watching your vedio many people got motivation. Thank you !

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much! This made my day. :)

[@joygoncalves4917]

You are Amazing. Congratulations. I bet you have proud parents and family.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much!

[@hayleyreynolds8119]

OBSESSED

[@Vogel_laura]

So grateful to have you!🥰

[@paulishahuskey9349]

Hey. Loved the video! Do you have any advice for those of us who are interested in starting their own handbag brand but do not have the means to travel abroad right now to get to know manufactures face to face?

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Paulisha, thank you! I'd start by searching through reputable online manufacturing databases and reach out to a few of the manufacturers that catch your eye. Once you're in touch with them, I'd schedule a video call and go over your goals for your business as well as your manufacturing requirements. Video calls are so important because you need to be sure that this is someone that you can work with and build a long-lasting relationship with. I'd also ask about their standards when it comes to company ethics and other areas you're interested in. Definitely order samples/create prototypes before ordering anything in bulk so that you can experience the quality.

[@darrelllewissr9413]

Awesome story❤

[@joanvogelle9985]

Your video caught my eye since my name is Vogelle pronounced with a soft “g”. Good luck with your bags.

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you Joan! What a fabulous last name you have ;)

[@serahmasiello]

Hi Laura! Your bag line is adorable. I work as a PA and my boss is looking to launch her handbag line. We have already liaised with an Italian company based here in the UK. Would you be able to share your manufacturer by any chance? Thank you so much!

[@AayraAgrawal]

Thank u dear. ❤️

[@harinisendhilnadhan1620]

You are so beautiful and inspiring! Thank you for sharing this, I wish you good luck

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you!

[@myeattanosike4918]

Congratulations honey! Very proud of you

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much!

[@LadiArchTV]

Great job...

[@WealthyMompreneur]

I had to subscribe!!!❤

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you so much!

[@gdiuaxlm]

Congrat! so nice to see you started successfully. May I ask if you launched your first collection online or offline, and how?

[@Vogel_laura]

I launched everything online and started scheduling trunk shows about 6 weeks in. I did not launch with any vendors or distribution.

[@Auntyakua]

Hello Laura, you bags look sooo amazing. I would love to learn from you.

[@phantomboi5679]

How did you find a place to make the bags in italy? Did you have to go there in person, and also how did you advertise early on

[@candacesanford2212]

Congratulations by the way

[@yangbarrera1556]

Hi! can you talk about how you managed packaging and manufacturing. I'm starting my own and I'm clueless

[@monicasotelo7593]

Congratulations! How did you find your manufacture in Italy?

[@DanettaClark]

Hi, I'm inspired!

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you for watching!

[@meka5159]

Beautiful bags. Where did you make your prototype, i really need a good place for that.

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Meka, I created my prototype with my manufacturer in Italy!

[@chiedoziechukwu1103]

I like your product

[@ritikaratnani2709]

Hey, This is truly so inspiring. I have a small business that I started last year and there are certain challenges that I am facing, would love to speak to you more about that. Is there a way we would connect? PS - Thank you for posting this. It was very informative.

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Ritika! So glad you came across my video and found it helpful. Yes, feel free to send me an email at [e-mail] and I will get back to you as soon as possible. I will also be posting a video shortly about the things I wish I knew and realistic business advice, so keep an eye out for that!

[@chetanaarjun3370]

Thanks for the nice video. I have a question. So could you please throw some light on licensing needed for export / import of leather goods . Thanks

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you! For me, I need a business tax ID, a international customs broker, customs bond, business bank account, and a business shipping account.

[@leratomorapela3075]

Hey! This is crazy because I self funded my handbag brand at 21 too! We have so much in common 🤣❤️My brand is based in South Africa❤️ - I just subscribed to your channel ✨

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi! Thank you so much for commenting. That is amazing. Please send me your brand info❤️ I visited Cape Town in 2019 and it’s on of the most amazing places I’ve ever been. I hope you’re experiencing tons of success!

[@leratomorapela3075]

@@Vogel_laura I’ll message you on Instagram 🥰

[@whatssonessa116]

@@leratomorapela3075 Heeey . I would like to contact you in regards t that if that is okay .

[@amandaayala9068]

I need a pink chain bag!!!!

[@Vogel_laura]

Ohhh love that idea! Keeping that in mind ;)

[@asbeautyqueenscollections8902]

congratulations

[@LosanaCikaitoga]

how much in total from prototype to finish did you spend please?

[@zakariazaki7513]

Thanks for video keep going 🤠 you are you elegant and attractive greeting from Morocco

[@zayvier69]

Did he charge u for the prototyping or worked the cost onto the first manufacturing run? How many units did he require the first production run to be?

[@Vogel_laura]

Prototyping is an expensive part of the process and can take time. I paid for each prototype as it was made. I was able to negotiate my minimum units but this varies widely between manufacturers.

[@lelosncheese]

I'm jumping the gun right now but are there any videos that you have where you talk about the step by step from designing to getting it made

[@Vogel_laura]

I do have a designing vlog on my channel from when I was living in Milan in 2021.

[@TylerMonique_]

Thank you for sharing! I’m working on my own brand now, your words are inspiring! May I ask how you decided on the quantity that you bought for your first collection? Thank you so much!!

[@Vogel_laura]

Hi Tyler! Congratulations on your new brand and thank you for your kind words. I wanted to start small to test how the bags would do and so I made sure not to order too much while also working with my manufacturer's minimums. The way I look at it is you can always order more once you see how your customers respond to your product rather than ordering too much, creating waste, and losing money. Hope this helps!

[@ROMA-gb5ow]

may i know what computer software did u use to design your bags when u were a Uni student?

[@Vogel_laura]

I sketch my designs.

[@phoeniciadiaz1329]

Iam currently planning on making my own handbag store ,your bags are gorgeous do you ship to new Zealand by any chance if so I would love to purchase your bags

[@Vogel_laura]

I do ship to NZ. Thank you for watching!

[@bewarethesasquatch6248]

Laura, whats the name of the white bag from the Florence Leather market?

[@Vogel_laura]

I can not remember the style name, but the brand logo has the fleur de lis on it. It is a very common brand in Florence - you'll see it everywhere!

[@nanaamaampofo7521]

What manufacturer did you use?

[@jennyjjoassaint9203]

How did you make them ? By hand or you sewed it? Just curious.

[@Vogel_laura]

I have a manufacturer in Italy that makes my designs.

[@mjp5129]

What’s the dimensions of the bag? I really like the look, but I seldom carry a bag, because of the size. A small one that has just enough room for my phone and wallet, maybe sunglasses. This bag looks like it would be fine and it certainly is classy. It’s hard to tell by the picture and it doesn’t say on your website. Thanks for the video. Very nice bags.

[@Vogel_laura]

All of my bag dimensions are on my website on each product page.

[@mjp5129]

@@Vogel_laura I just checked and found the dimensions. Don’t know why I didn’t see them the first time. Lol. Thanks. Love the size.

[@christlyenoh2317]

I admire your taste alot this year i wish to start my handbag business I'll think ill do resell of bags first pls wat advice do u hv ff me

[@Vogel_laura]

Thank you Christly! My advice would be to have a detailed business plan, know your customer, and have your finances figured out before launching.

[@sialee5926]

Hi - how do I find a great manufacturer and quality hardware? Thanks!

[@ernestinaakweshie4398]

Hello,I’m leaving in Ghana, how can I get a purchase

[@yvonnetucker1416]

VERY NICE

[@idontknow8255]

Did you find manufacturer online ? Or You went to italy to visit and have meeting with them?

[@Vogel_laura]

I met my manufacturer in Italy.

[@sabreenkhatoon3624]

Is there any copyright claim?

[@sugarandspice3813]

Where is your manufacturer

[@zayvier69]

How did u sell ur first production run? Instagram? Word of mouth? Website?

[@Vogel_laura]

It was a combination of Instagram and word of mouth! At first, all of my sales were online due to the pandemic, but now I work with boutiques as well.

[@jessicalt4121]

I cannot find handbags with hidden compartments for abused women. I see conceal and carry bags, but need to find my friend a bag that allows her to hide an extra cell phone and money. Any suggestions? Think I may have to have one made for her??

[@Vogel_laura]

This is really interesting, I don't think I have seen bags that are made for that either. It could definitely be something to look into for you!

[@enayethussain3542]

Im a experienced leather bag maker, i would like to Start my own business in Europe, can you give me some ideas about European market.thank you.

[@prettyrarekollectionz]

How did you find your manufacturer I'm in the United States or should I say how did you come up with the idea

[@Vogel_laura]

I answered this in the video :)

[@emmeau]

Did you already have a website ? Or how did you promote? Where you scared not to sell any?

[@Vogel_laura]

I launched my website when I launched my brand. I didn't have a website prior. Yes! I was so scared that I wouldn't sell any, I had no clue if anyone would buy them. Huge leap of faith!

[@emmeau]

@@Vogel_laura so inspiring

[@ilovefitness826]

please how did you lunch your products to huge audience number

[@sugarandspice3813]

Who is your manufacturer

[@joycebright4822]

How can I start a bag business?

[@iglesiahanongkinabuhi-mgaa9309]

New subcriber :) I want to become an entrepreneur too. :)

[@Shacaraw.]

Hey love I need help I’m trying to start my own handbag business

[@jakefossati862]

Hi my name it’s Jake Fossati and my wife and I are actually looking to do the same thing is there any way you could reach out to us we have a few questions

[@brierogatz8092]

THATS MY CEO

[@Vogel_laura]

Trying!👏🏼👏🏼