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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
In all the years I have hosted this program, I have learned that ideas for new businesses often come when you least expect it. Michelle Romero discovered this very thing when the idea for her business came because of a spill.
About three years ago, Michelle had a handbag she really liked. One day she spilled something on it and was distressed that she would have to transfer the contents of her purse and replace it with a new bag. The thought occurred to Michelle that it would be so convenient and fun if handbags had a cover that could be removed and washed.
She disassembled her bag to make a prototype of a brand new bag with a removable shell. She showed the bag to her friend Annette Cavaness, who loved the concept. The two friends developed a business plan and later contacted a patent lawyer and a sourcing agent who helped them find a factory in China to begin producing the bags, which led to the creation of Miche Bag.
Miche Bag has a handbag with an entire line of 34 different styles of interchangeable shells customers can choose to put on their bag with either short or long handles. Michelle says shells store easily and can be changed to match someone's outfit, mood or the season. This year Annette and Michelle will be launching two new products, a Mini-Miche and a large Miche Bag.
Before developing the Miche Bag, Michelle tells me she had no business experience or background. However, her passion for creativity and interior design helped in the development of her business. Annette's experience as an accessories buyer has also brought new insight to the business.
The Miche Bag concept has really taken off as the first kiosks opened up in the Fashion Place and University malls last summer. Additional kiosks are located in California, Nevada and Mississippi. Michelle says they anticipate opening an additional 150 locations across the country this year.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
