Handmade Suede Backpack in Espresso from Costa Rica 'Exploration in Espresso' Item ID: 2677068253

I come from a family of restaurateurs, but found myself drawn to handicrafts. I decided to create handbags.

One day, I thought I'd design clothing with fabric remnants and apparel I didn't wear anymore. After many attempts, I ended up with a beautiful handbag. Very few people saw it but one of those people was the owner of a shop. She loved it! And she ordered several of this design.

I was afraid I'd fail but, at the same time, I was thrilled and felt hopeful about this opportunity. It was rewarding to know that someone liked my work and that all my effort was worth it.

As I created other novel and utilitarian designs, I gained experience and improved my technique. I hope to earn the admiration of many more shoppers who appreciate quality work crafted with dedication and love.

I was born in Costa Rica. I've liked handicrafts from the time I was a girl and creating handcrafted designs was a dream I had worked toward day by day.

But art isn't valued much in this country and it's been a long struggle to create designs that are unique and stand out from the others. Today, designing and crafting handbags and accessories has become my passion. I want others to know that with perseverance and hard work, you can go far. But with God's help, you can achieve your dreams of quality and excellence.

I achieved my dream in 2002, setting up a formal workshop of my own. I had the support of my loved ones and, above all, God's blessings. He has been my main source of strength from the very beginning. Today, we're doing very well and I hope to reach more shoppers than ever, to make my country's art known around the world.

When the opportunity arises, you must seize it.