I began 1154 LILL with a dream of doing something independent, something creative, something that truly felt “right”. I was unsatisfied with aspects of my corporate design job and, going back to skills I had learned earlier, found a creative outlet in the satisfying motions of selecting fabric, working a sewing machine and figuring designs that ended up as handbags. My favorite activity quickly became the hunt for textures, patterns and colors that spoke to me and I couldn’t wait to see how different fabrics would work together as a handbag. I realized that I loved the thrill of creating, and I wanted to share this experience with others by creating a unique and original business.

Since that realization, development of 1154 LILL has progressed at an amazing rate. In late 1998, the vision was nothing more than pages of sketches, business ideas and nights and weekends spent at my sewing machine. Sharing my aspirations with friends and family led to the confidence to pursue my dreams and transform 1154 LILL into a full time career. I was ecstatic to be able to do so the Fall of 1999.

Soon, handbag appointments, parties and open houses were helping to spread the word about this new “design your own handbag” concept around Chicago and beyond. It became apparent that the story of 1154 LILL had only just begun. I enlisted additional support from my friend Robin Newberry whose advice, ideas and personal passion added a new dimension to what 1154 LILL would become.

The next few years went quickly as 1154 LILL moved severa times before finding homes in its current Chicago retail boutique and its current Chicago design and administrative headquarterswhere we manufacture each unique LILL Bag one at a time. Fueled by the reaction and encouragement of our amazing customers, I am happy to say that we have continued to grow, opening Boston, Kansas City and Phildelphia, adding a nationwide handbag party program called "LILL on Location " and enhancing our website with dynamic customization features!

Through the years we have been lucky enough to have been joined by some amazingly talented and caring individuals. A visionary team of marketing, web, design, production, sales associates and more work tirelessly to ensure that each LILL Bag is ready to delight our customers. I am proud to say the 1154 LILL STUDIO of today is a place where creative minds converge to produce not only an interesting product but an interesting experience.

I take great pride in our original custom concept, our unequaled customer service, our ever changing selection of exquisite fabrics and the superior quality of our hand tailored bags. All of us at 1154 LILL STUDIO look forward to meeting you soon!     

Jennifer Velarde