Meet Jocelyn Shaw | Creative Designer and Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jocelyn Shaw and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jocelyn, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
My idea came up unexpectedly while on vacation. I was walking on the beach and saw a handbag that inspired me. So I thought I can create something that would be more than just a handbag but rather a portable piece of art. I always made bold fashion statements through clothes, accessories, shoes, etc.
My style is classy, sophisticated , and a bit understated.

I wanted to create something that was unique and served a purpose.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a creative mind with love of fashion and vibrant colors, I wanted to create a brand, a product, that honored the importance of my life and incorporate the four core values I live by: Family, Passion, Mom, and Sister. These portable pieces of art personified by vision and is dedicated to my late sister who never saw the end product but would be so proud and honored.

I hit a rough patch trying to find the materials and distributor since the materials used are only indigenous in the Philippines. I was able to locate a factory outside of Manila and it was a difficult trek since there were no paved roads. There wasn’t an abundance of crop available and had to wait a few months. The materials I used are sustainable organic palm leaves known as the Buntal which are then woven and dyed, all handmade and unique in design with no two patterns alike.

There was also a language barrier and the wifi connection was a challenge to communicate back and forth with. After months of negotiation, the product was complete. Shipment was delayed but the end product was well worth the wait.

What sets me apart is these handbags are portable pieces of art, more like an accessory with practicality.

As a brand, I’m most proud that by outsourcing the bags from my home country, I’m giving back to the community by providing work and talent into the production.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
San Diego is very diverse and offers a variety of neighborhood from ecclectic to formal. My most favorite spots are anything along Little Italy with the endless arrays of mama and papa shops, bars, and of course the restaurants.
Cross the street over to the Kettner Exchange on the rooftop deck and nosh on some appetizers and enjoy the people watching and end it with watching the sunset across the bay.

Another favorite hotspot would be a stroll on La Jolla shores and enjoy the sounds of the waves. A hidden gem that most tourists don’t know about and probably the most spectacular beach is Windansea. I’d finish off the evening by having dinner at Duke’s and pair it with it’s famous Mai Tai. Must head out to the patio because the view from the infinity deck is breathtaking.

To escape the hustle and bustle of metro San Diego, I’d relax and head over to Del Mar. My go to place is Pacifica Del Mar. You know this place is doing something right since it’s been a hotspot for over 40 years. It offers the best views sitting atop a hillside with obstructing views of the Pacific Ocean. This place can break the bank so I’d suggest going for happy hour and ordering the blackened fish taco paired with a skinny margarita.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate my shoutout to my late sister Jackie Martinez, my inspiration and my best friend,

Instagram: @tristengagehandbags