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About Janet Gray Designs
Janet Gray launched Janet Gray Designs LLC
six years ago from the spare bedroom of her home in Richmond, Virginia.
She sewed window treatments and soft furnishings for local customers.
She learned by experience, and describes her beginnings as an “intense
internship in the real world.” In 2002, shortly after relocating to the
Cleveland area, she expanded into designing and sewing fabric handbags
to sell at a local market. The success of this new venture led to large
demand, and she soon was so busy that she couldn’t keep up with the
work. “I was regularly sewing until 2:30 in the morning, and knew
something had to change. I probably wanted to quit at least a 100
times.” She confides. “So many people encouraged me. That kept me
going.” Her husband and friends supported her passion to create, and in
the summer of 2006, she expanded into manufacturing and distribution of
her own line of genuine leather and fabric handbags, travel totes and
accessories.
Her new line reflects her personality and values in every detail. You
can see the quality in every aspect of the bags, from the materials used
to the efficient pocket system. The genuine leather trim adds durability
as well as beauty. Janet designs every detail of her collections, from
the fabrics to the key chain that adorns the larger pieces. Her
collections have an updated classic style, which makes each piece a
great addition to any woman’s wardrobe. The unique styles appeal to all
ages. The travel totes are very roomy and can be used as an athletic
bag, overnight bag or even a diaper bag for the mom who desires style as
she carries around her little one’s gear. She has also added the Unibag
to her collections, which can double as a makeup bag or wrist bag.
In every way, Janet plans on using her business to benefit others. She
works with charities and donates her time to mission work. “My business
is a gift from God. The support I received from the people in my life
had a huge positive impact on me, and I want to give that same positive
impact to others,” she says. She desires to support other women who are
struggling to be all that they can be for themselves and their families.
“Encouragement is something we all need, no matter where we are in life
or what we believe.” This desire is reflected in the symbol for her
company, which is the water lily. She explains, “The water lily
struggles through murky waters to bloom above the surface. Not only does
it bloom, but it’s strong and beautiful. Women can be that way,
especially when we support and encourage each other. I’m living proof.”
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