Espresso-Colored Faux Leather Messenger Bag from Costa Rica, "Practical Elegance"

"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."