Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen (Cisarik) Benkendorfer.
Hi Kathleen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
The business idea started from always having the urge to learn how to sew. Back in 2018, I started watching YouTube videos of how to sew, where I stumbled upon a video about how to sew a handbag…and that’s where it clicked. I started sewing handbags for all my friends, family and mutual friends until I realized this could expand from a hobby to a business. That’s when I started looking for manufacturers in the U.S. and found an incredible woman-owned, small business in Texas that specialized in handbag construction. From there we launched our first collection and continued to launch new color ways, as well as design new products. We participated in countless markets all over Texas and are currently venturing into the Wholesale space, selling our uniquely designed handbags to retailers at Dallas Market.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have been many obstacles along the way, but I am thankful for those challenges because those difficulties have not only grown my business, but myself as a person. One of the biggest challenges is communicating with suppliers regarding fabric, hardware and the countless pieces and materials involved in creating a high-end handbag. There will always be a bump in the road whether it’s receiving the incorrect colorway of fabric or delays in shipping and production.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I created a handbag brand based off my initial designs I sewed behind the sewing machine. I design wallets, clutches, wristlets, crossbody bags, stadium-approved bags, totes and more. We stand apart from other brands because our products are manufactured locally in Texas, produced in limited quantities, specializing in originality. Our handbags are made of beautiful vegan leathers with fun and colorful brocade interiors, different from every other handbag brand on the market.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My family, friends and husband have played a vital role in the success of the business. They are always here for me cheering me on to keep pushing myself and the brand, KMC, to be the best it can be. Whether setting up for a market or selling handbags, my family and friends are constantly promoting KMC and helping me in anyway they can! I definitely would not be where I am today without such an incredible support system!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://KMChandbags.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kmchandbags/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmchandbags
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-cisarik-benkendorfer-859063161/
Image Credits
Photographed by Ellie Bush
