Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Wexstaff.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Lauren. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
After graduating college with a fine arts degree and a business degree, I really didn’t have any sort of direction as to where I was going to go next. I pursued degrees in areas that I am passionate about, but I didn’t know how to work with both. I continued working in retail, hoping that I would figure out how to build something for myself. On my days off, I would make clothing items, jewelry, or accessories for myself as a creative outlet.
My next project was making a simple leather tote bag and I quickly became obsessed with the process of working with leather. It was very different than what I already knew about sewing, but I decided to give it a try. When I had finished the bag, I rushed over to a friend to show her. The first thing she said was, ” You could sell these”. I was in disbelief. I never saw myself designing accessories, selling them and building a business out of it. But after a few months of thoughtful prayer and planning, I began selling at markets on the side for a few years. I built a website, started adding more products, and was receiving opportunities to grow my business. But I knew that if I wanted to take Archive Goods to the next level, then I would have to go all in and quit my job. When I did, I was able to invest more time into honing in my skills and craft, and this year I finally opened a retail shop and studio!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
When I started the business, I had to take on another side job in order to keep pursuing my goals. I knew that I had to invest in my skills, tools, and resources to be able to provide the best possible product to people and that required more money. Thankfully I did not have to do that for long and I was able to quit.
Once I had acquired the proper tools, I had to learn them. It was a huge learning curve for me because sewing with leather is very different than sewing fabric. I had to make many prototypes before I would get a design right and at the time, there wasn’t a lot of information or how-to’s on the internet on designing and making a leather bag in depth. I had purchased many books and as many resources as possible to help me learn how to refine my craft so that I could design different type of bags.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Archive Goods story. Tell us more about the business.
Archive Goods is a women’s leather goods brand. I am the founder and designer. I specialize in making women’s handbags and small goods. I am most proud of the craftsmanship and design that goes into every piece. What sets me apart from other leather goods brands is simplicity and functionality of my designs.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
More than luck. I think it is – being intentional – that has greatly affected the growth of my business. I had to set goals, meet those goals and put my words into action. I had to believe in myself and walk in faith knowing that this is exactly where I am supposed to be. Sure, there were unforeseen circumstances that weren’t the best, but I knew that there was room for more if I could push through it.
Pricing:
- Day Bag – $298
- Mini Backpack – $178
- Classic Crossbody – $168
Contact Info:
- Address: 242 South Main Street, Boerne, Texas 78006
- Website: www.archivegoodstx.com
- Email: [email protected]
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