Nicole Kelner Designs Founder, Nicole Kelner

HC: What gave you the idea of creating a Smart Purse and how did you go about making your dream a reality?

Nicole: I used to always leave my purse everywhere around campus and would still have my phone in my pocket. I just wanted a purse I could use my phone through because I knew I would never lose it since I am always checking it for the time. But, I could not find one to buy. This led me to teach me how to sew and create my own purse out of need; I never was planning on starting a business at the time. I kept evolving the purse and eventually decided to open an Etsy shop spontaneously in March 2012 and since then my business has been growing and evolving.

HC: What do you think makes your purse different from all the other purses out there and how do you think they will impact girls’ everyday lives?

Nicole: My purse allows you to text, touch and even take calls without ever having to take your phone out. I have designed a special protective plastic pocket to slip your smart phone into and added padding to protect it from all different situations. With my Smart Purse, you never have to worry about scratches from keys, sand at the beach, water damage from rain, or cracks from dropping. I feel that this design adds a new level convenience that busy girls today need and it can simplify their life while making a fashion statement.

HC: What is one thing you attribute for your success in your design line? And what tools (material or people) helped you build your line?

Nicole: I am lucky enough to be surrounded by an incredible support system. My parents have believed in me throughout the entire journey and my friends have been excited to see my company grow. I recently was selected to be part of the Accelerator Program through Innoblue, a club on-campus for entrepreneurs, which has also helped me tremendously.

HC: What are your aspirations for your company, your product and yourself?

Nicole: I hope to be a millionaire my 30! With this money, I want to donate thousands of dollars to THON. In addition, I would love to see my company be well-known as a brand for wearable tech accessories and expand into clothing as well. As for my products, I want them to be in retail stores nationally and internationally and be featured all around the world!

HC: What advice would you give to aspiring designers and young entrepreneurs like yourself?

Nicole: I would tell them to not be afraid to fail. I used to be a complete perfectionist and terrified to fail or be rejected, but after learning to embrace failure I have never been so liberated. It is a challenge, but failure is how you learn and grow. After accepting the prospect failure, you can do anything. 

To check out Nicole’s Smart Purses, or customize one for yourself, visit www.nicolekelnerdesigns.com !