Today’s Sunday Spotlight and giveaway is why I love my blog. Seriously.
I featured Diaper Bag Wrangler a month ago in a Ten Dollar Tuesday post. I emailed the link to KC of Diaper Bag Wrangler to let her know I wrote about her shop. We’ve exchanged a few emails and in the process I’ve learned more about her. She’s an amazing, inspiring, talented woman and I’m so excited for you to learn more about her, too. The Diaper Bag Wrangler is now back for a Sunday Spotlight and a giveaway!
KC is the mama to a 3 year old daughter and an “incredibly fat pug Caeser.” Last year, KC’s world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 30 years old. She says, “It was totally surreal, and everything was happening incredibly fast, so I started blogging candidly about my experiences and treatment. On August 18th 2009, I became a one year survivor.”
TSM: What’s a random fun fact about you?
I got married at the Tropicana in Las Vegas and my wedding pictures are in front of slot machines. We were young, it was fun…and yes, it was planned in advance.
TSM: When did you start making and selling your goods? Is this your full time work or do you have a “day job”? I’m a stay-at-home Mom, and I started making Diaper Bag Wrangler products shortly after Lilly was born. I just wanted to keep all my diaper stuff together! There were some similar items available, but not exactly what I was looking for. I started out making things for myself and some friends who were having babies and it just grew!
TSM: What is your favorite item to make or sell?
My favorite item is definitely the Link Loop Diaper Bag. I just love the practicality and versatility of them. Plus, it was the item that started my business.
TSM: What is your inspiration?
I like things simple. When I see something complicated, I wonder, “how can I make that easier?” I love being inspired by my family and friends to create things. My background is in Design so I am always thinking/planning/creating.
TSM: Do you have any plans for new, additional products or business expansion?
I’ve recently expanded my line to include additional aprons – there was a lot of demand from my customers for matching “Mommy & Me” apron sets! It’s even grown from there to coordinating doll and maternity aprons.
We’ve also introduced headbands and caps for women undergoing chemotherapy. The headbands tie in the back so they are great to wear with wigs, but I have found that just about everyone loves them as well. The chemo caps are stylish, contemporary and comfortable. 10% from every cap and headband sold is donated to a cancer charity.
TSM: If money were no object what is one thing you would buy right now?
I would have to say a new studio for my business! Right now I have a great studio in my home but my dream is to have my own storefront studio where I could work, teach sewing workshops, and have a boutique set up.
TSM: What are some of your favorite stores or Etsy shops online?
On Etsy: Little Lesiw (I am seriously obsessed), Frank and Me, Ahpeele, JewlLi. Other Stores:
Anywhere I can buy fabric…I have a major fabric addiction.
Connect! Check out the Diaper Bag Wrangler Blog and follow Diaper Bag Wrangler on Twitter.
Shop! Head over to www.diaperbagwrangler.com and enter the code SHOP20 in the discount coupon box at checking for or 20% off your entire order. Discount code expires October 31, 2009. Diaper Bag Wrangler always offers free shipping on all orders over $40!
Win! Enter the Diaper Bag Wrangler $75 Gift Certificate giveaway on The Shopping Mama!
Bella
August 25, 2009This line really stuck out to me, "I like things simple. When I see something complicated, I wonder, 'how can I make that easier?'"
I think that's so great – how often do we go online to etsy or to Babies R Us or wherever and there's tons of different diaper bags but other than material choice or fabric pattern, they're all the same design? Same gigantic strap to sling over like a messenger bag but shaped like a gigantic PVC coated purse.
I love it when I see that somebody has thought outside the box and created a product that's more useful than what's already available en masse.
lil miss' mama
August 26, 2009I love that she makes items for cancer patients. I am just starting to create felt flower headbands for little girls with cancer after enjoying crafting and sending them to NICU babies so much!
Cherry Blossoms
August 27, 2009My mom had breast cancer and I really like that she creates things for Cancer patients…its such a difficult time in a persons life and I know that a pretty hair covering really makes a difference.
CherryBlossomsDesign at hotmail
Jessi
September 1, 2009I love reading about people that beat breast cancer and KC seems like she is a strong woman who was ready for the fight. WTG on your one year.
Kristy
September 1, 2009I just have to say that the headwraps are gorgeous. I am an oncology nurse and I know women that have a hard time finding pretty, elegant head wraps! These are beautiful!
Blake and Laura
September 3, 2009I too like that she makes things for cancer patients. I often work as as an oncology nurse and am taking care of those patients and their families.
Chelle
September 3, 2009I admire her strength for fighting cancer…and winning the fight! Way to go, KC!!
And I LOVE the fact that she makes chemo caps…I think that in itself makes her a caring person.
Beautiful work, beautiful person…thank you for sharing with all of us.
Carrie
September 6, 2009I have a fabric obsession as well! Thanks for expanding your line to include products for women undergoing chemo. I know too many women who needed/need/will need these. I always appreciate companies that donate to charities, too!
Jacky
September 6, 2009I love that proceeds from the chemo caps actually go to help people with cancer. I also think the maternity aprons are pretty sweet–never seen those before! =)
Tina
September 7, 2009I love all the products and seeing other's creativity.