Friday, July 15, 2011

Loving Byron

I just realized that I've been ignoring this blog....AGAIN. I just wrote a short post about the new O.BYRON line of fair trade handbags Dunitz & Company will be debuting this summer. I wanted to share a photo of that sweet boy (this one taken in the office in 2009) the new line is named for. My love for Byron will shower the same on the O.BYRON line :) -ND

Recycled Rubber & High Design

It's been challenging to bring a new, hip and environmentally conscious hand bag line to market. And, that new line will debut next week at the Los Angeles Gift Show. See the new O.BYRON collection in the Dunitz booth, #1031.
It became clear to me earlier this year that my excitement for my business had been waning. I'm guessing it had just become too routine for me. I've been involved with designing and selling my beaded jewelry line (from Guatemala) for well over 20 years. It's been steady and wonderful...but not unexpected.
Some new found joy was created when I ventured to Peru in April/May. While in Peru, I met two wonderful designers who have a workshop where they have been busy creating wonderful things for home decor and personal use. Better yet, they were and are primarily using recycled elements to create their items. We decided to collaborate on a handbag line made of recycled rubber. The rubber we are using primarily comes from tires and inner tubes. The new designs are fashion forward and fair trade. What is even closer to my heart is I have trademarked the line O.BYRON. To most it sounds like a random (designer) person's name. To those who know Dunitz well, you will know this is a tribute to my best friend of 15 1/2 years. My dog and Dunitz mascot passed when I was in Peru. - ND