Annie's Story

I n 2003, I was pondering what to do with six formal gowns that my mom gave to me. I couldn't wear them (my mom is tiny) and I had grabbed them thinking I'd use them for linings on sewing projects. Except I fell in love with handbags.

My first bag was a half-circle in green brocade with a bamboo handle. It's chic, and I call it my "why, thank you bag" because I get so many compliments on it. These aren't any old formals, either. I have to thank Grandma Aimee (*smooch*, in heaven) for sewing them and my mom for saving them for forty years!

As I pondered, two people asked me if I could sew bags for them. And a few more. Finally, I decided that time had come. I whipped up a logo, a site and started on my way.

Annies Formals is about taking a dress you paid a two hundred bucks for, that you wore because you were friends with the bride (who else would wear an ugly dress and still cry happy tears?), and having a custom, hand-crafted chic accessory.

One that will forever remind you of the time when you stood by your friend, no matter what the dress, and cried as she walked down the aisle with what's-his-face. If my bridesmaids are out there....I'm truly sorry. Let me sew you a bag! --Ann