Petal Purse- $49.00

Don’t you love handbags?! Especially labels that are fun, different and attract attention. It’s a small obsession with me. So I had to share this find with you. I first found Amy Phelps, the designer behind nJoy Designs on twitter and right away I wanted to know more. I loved the color and the way she combined seemingly different patterns into one complete look. I also wanted to learn more about the materials she used. I loved that each bag looks…easy to clean! Imagine that. Great if you have kids. Here’s what Amy had to tell us.

LDB: I was so attracted by the color in your line. Tell us about your process when choosing your colors/patterns. What do you look for and what inspires your look.

nJoy: Thank you! I usually start about 6 months out looking at color trends for the upcoming season. I look at the Pantone swatches and the oilcloths available to see which would work best with the given season.

I look for bright and happy colors. Spring and summer are a given with the floral prints and bright colors that the bags come in but don’t you want that in the middle of the winter too? I usually tone down the main background color of the bag but they always still have a little cheer to them in the floral print. I’m a native Oregonian, I know about the rainy season and what it takes to stay happy.

LDB: I’ve read that your bags are made using water-resistant oilcloth. How did you decide on using oilcloth and what are its benefits?

nJoy: I loved all the color combinations the oilcloth came in. There are so many different patterns, flowers and colors to choose from. I couldn’t help myself.

The benefits are almost endless. Waterproof, spill proof and pretty much dirt proof. They stay looking new for a long, long time. I’ve had numerous buyers contact me saying, “My kid spilled an ENTIRE cup of juice into my bag the other day. Wiped it right out and it’s looking like new.” From the beach to the middle of the rainy season, all your belongings stay nice and dry inside.

LDB: Which design are you the most proud of?

Njoy Designs Petal Purse- Inside Look

nJoy: I love the petal purse. The adorable round shape and cute pleat, it’s girly but functional. I like the small black and white lace print strip that goes across each of the bags too. Even though it’s not the same print and on the body of the bag, it adds just a little more dimension to them.

LDB: What methods do you use to  market and sell your items? Where can we find your designs?

nJoy: I’m trying a little bit of everything from Facebook to Twitter to good old walking in the stores I’m interested in being in…I’m in several stores across the nation and now in two stores in Canada! Click here for a full list. I also do in-home bag parties. Throw your own party and earn free bags. I give all the samples and paperwork, all you need is your girlfriends to come over and design their custom bags.

LDB: Do you have a favorite online/boutique shop?

nJoy: I have to say, I’m an etsy girl through and through. I love the variety. There is so much to find and fall in love with there.

If you’d like to purchase a bag from nJoy Designs or inquire about wholesale orders for your store, click here!

Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, Amy. We wish you success with your business. Keep us posted on your collection.