Cathy Fladeland and Regina O’Connor of Elli and Friends had only been in the handbag business for a few months before they were thrust into the global spotlight. Their secret weapon was none other than the most talked about woman in politics, Sarah Palin.
“A friend of a friend of a friend” knew the Republican vice presidential nominee, so they sent her their A Night on the Town purse. The colorful bag with the green velvet trim clearly impressed Sarah, who began to coordinate it with her designer outfits during the campaign.
“She must have liked it and found it functional in her busy schedule,” Cathy Fladeland said.
Much has been made of Sarah Palin’s massive wardrobe budget, so it’s refreshing to note how affordable the Elli and Friends handbags are. The limited edition “works of art” purses retail for less than $100. Sarah’s beloved bag is no longer available, but the same style with different fabric costs just $58.75.
So what’s next for the girls from Elli and Friends? They’d love to see Michelle Obama or her daughters carrying their purses at Barack Obama’s inauguration!
“To see the kids walking into the White House with our bags would make our hearts sing,” Cathy Fladeland laughed. “Hey, if you don’t aim high, you’re not going to get anywhere.”
Elli and Friends bags are available from Only Nails Only Us in Wheaton and from the company’s website.
