Our shop is Logan and Lenora and you can also find us on Amazon (and at Nordstrom soon!).
Tell us about what you make/sell in your shop.
I design waterproof bags for moms - awesome and stylish "wet bags" that are designed as Hobos, Clutches, and Totes. Every mom can use "low maintenance" bags that are waterproof, washable, and versatile for all the stages of parenthood.
How/why did you start making these products and open this shop?
I started designing waterproof bags in 2010 when I had my first son and decided to cloth diaper. I discovered "wet bags", and as a bag designer at my former job, I began sketching ideas for transforming the typical wet bag into a stylish accessory I would love to carry.
How long have you been in business?
Officially since 2013. From 2010-2013 I was on Etsy.
What is your background (college/career/etc.)?
I studied art in college, and then for 6 years worked with a refugee women's stitching project based in Kenya and Rwanda, designing bags and accessories. At heart I am an artist, and my favorite part of my job is designing new bag styles and prints.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
I'm married to my best friend, Ben, who also works at Logan + Lenora now as the COO. We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary, and I'm so thankful to be able to live life and work alongside someone I love so much! We have three kids: Logan (6), Greyson (4), and Willow (1). Our life feels very full, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
How does this company help your family? Or you?
Now that Ben and I both work for Logan + Lenora, our family is 100% supported by my business. I never would have imagined that happening back when I first started designing and selling these bags in 2010. Aside from financially, L+L has allowed Ben and I to both be around our kids more and have a healthier work/life balance. And we love our work!
Did you ever think you'd be doing this? What did you think you'd be doing instead?
I always dreamed of designing my own products, but I never thought it would get this far. For awhile I thought I'd still be living in East Africa, but who knows. Maybe that will weave back in at some point.
Does anyone help you with your shop?
My husband is COO, Sophie runs our customer care and warehouse, and we work with a team of sewers here in Denver to make all the bags.
How do you find time to run your shop and create products?
With a lot of help. We have an amazing nanny who plays with Willow while we work during the day, and then Ben and I trade off afternoons once the boys are off school. And sometimes, I put in more hours once the kids are in bed. Having my own business means always being on-call, the work is never-ending.
What do you love about this business?
I love designing for other moms. I know how crazy life can be with kids, and the importance of maintaining a sense of self while caring for other human beings. Those are themes that are woven into our marketing and bag designs - focusing on mom and designing for her, while keeping in mind things like waterproof and washable that help simplify her day-to-day.
What is the most challenging part of this business?
It takes a lot of time and energy to create something new. And with a young family it can feel overwhelming. I have to be patient with myself and allow myself time to be a mom first, entrepreneur second.
Where do you see your shop in the future?
I hope to see Logan + Lenora become a mainstream brand that moms love and respect, and go to for everyday bags to help organize and simplify mommyhood.
Tell us your favorite product or your most favorite thing you've created?
I love our Waterproof Wristlet Clutch, and now with the little gold tassel. It just makes me happy, and I carry one all the time.
Do you have any advice for future mom-entrepreneurs?
Follow your dreams, and if you have an idea try it out! But remember it’s a learning process, and it’s good for your ideas and designs to evolve as you begin executing. It may end up looking very different than you originally thought. And, it all takes time.
What are some of YOUR favorite shops/products, besides your own?
I love Urban Oreganics, Marley's Monsters, Mama and Little, The Blueberry Hill, EZPZ, June and January, Sloomb, Fawn Design and Briar Handmade - just to name a few. :)
Thanks Rachel, loved having you! :)
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