ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Nancy Anderson

Tell us a little bit about your shoppe. 

Before I started venturing online with my website and Etsy and later selling wholesale to shops, for many years I sold my handbags primarily at fairs and home shows. I loved this, and still do when I am able to, because it gives me the opportunity to hear customers’ comments about the different pieces as well as their thoughts about different fabric combinations that I might never have thought of. I always take fabric swatches to these events and let customers design their own bags if they so choose which is always fun. At home shows, it is a blast to watch guests spread out swatches all over the floor and tables to see what they can come up with and to assist each other with their selections. Without a doubt, some of my best designs have come from the inspiration of my customers! Creativity is non-stop and the ideas are limitless – this is the main reason I love doing what I do.

What is your favorite product from your shoppe and why? 

This is difficult for me but, since it is nearing summer time, I will have to say one of my favorite products is my new Extra Large Floral Beach Bag which I specially created for a friend who recently re-located to a coastal community down south. I love the colors in this bag and because it is a little bigger than most totes and lined with canvas, it is very durable and has so many uses besides just being a beach bag. It’s also perfect for the gym, traveling, shopping – you name it!

When you’re not handcrafting such gorgeous totes and accessories, what are your hobbies? 
My primary extra-curricular activity is tennis which I do several days a week. I learned to play when I was ten, played on the the high school team and then didn’t touch a racquet for almost twenty years. One day about ten years ago I was sitting watching people on the tennis courts while my son was playing on the nearby playground. Their coach came and sat down next to me, we started talking and when we were done he asked if I wanted to play for the team! Having not played in so long I was reluctant but I went ahead and did it and have played competitively year-around ever since. It has not only been a wonderful social outlet but great exercise and a whole lot of fun.

Besides tennis, I love to read, walk my two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, occasionally play the piano, walk on the beach, and spend time with my husband of 28 years, my daughter, 24, and son, 20.

What do you like best about The Artisan Group? 

I can honestly say that the decision to join The Artisan Group has boosted my business to new heights and I am incredibly honored and fortunate to be associated with such a respected, supportive and inspiring group of talented artists. My little shop has suddenly jumped into the big leagues and has grown exponentially as a result of the huge exposure it has received not only from the celebrity gifting and participating in the GBK Golden Globe and Oscars events but also from the business knowledge and resources that the members freely share with one another.

Valerie is an awesome leader who works tirelessly to make sure we all shine and grow both as individual business owners as well as a group. I love the unsurpassed integrity, organization and professionalism of The Artisan Group and the marketing opportunities are nothing short of amazing. Without a doubt, this group rocks!

Nancy recently participated as a display participant in a luxury celebrity gift lounge on February 24-25, 2012 at The W Hotel in Hollywood, California, in honor of the The 2012 Academy Awards Nominees and Presenters.