Relaxed and Refreshed-Straight from Miami

Early last night I arrived back in Toronto after 4 days in South beach Miami. Now, if you knew me you would know that South Beach is not my normal scene. I don't have blond hair, fake breasts, a closet full of designer clothes and the thought of a crazy packed night club makes me have a slight anxiety attack but there is something about that city that keeps me coming back. This was certainly not my first trip to Miami but it was my first trip all alone, sans the entourage. I left my computer at home and boarded a plane with nothing but a small selection of bathing suits, comfy clothes and my sketch book. The main purpose of this trip was to relax, de-clutter my often hyper active mind and work out some new ideas for the coming year at cha cha. I accomplished all those things (not to mention a little tan). Although I was slightly sad to say good bye to all the lovely staff who took care of my every need at the Ritz (highly recommend) I was happy to be home, back to my very lovely reality here in Toronto, motivated to start some new projects. A vacation alone sounds strange to some, and not even possible for many with kids, jobs, and a pile of other responsiblities but Im telling you, if you can swing it, try it. There is nothing wrong with taking a little time for yourself. For me it allowed me to see how clearly blessed I am. Thanks for the help Miami. Now.... back to the sewing machine.

This Months Handbag Winner Is......

Congratulations to Krista Daniels from Calgary Alberta. Your new bag is in the mail! To anyone who missed a chance to win "Ali" this month, you have one more month to enter. Check out the website for details, chachalifestyle.com

NEW WEBSITE

chachalifestyle.com

cha cha Newsletter

Just another day at the cha cha office

My favorite place in the cha cha neighborhood to take an afternoon break.

Patience

In the past I have given my bags names, names of great ladies, friends, family, random people who have inspired me. This time I am naming my newest addition after a skill. Patience. Lord knows patience is not something I was born with. In fact it is a skill that I have to work at every minute of everyday. Generally when I have an idea, or decide I want something, I want it NOW and will do what ever it takes till I get it or make it. I came up with the idea for this bag last night and to be honest, wanted to come into the studio at 1AM to make but decided it would turn out better if I asserted some PATIENCE, had a good nights sleep and started on it in the morning. I think in this case, patience helped me create a better bag. It's been just over a year that cha cha has been my full time job and I think my patience is growing, I haven't mastered the skill, but it's a work in progress. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.

Get them before they are gone!

♥♥♥ END OF SUMMER CLEAROUT♥♥♥ Sadly, summer is over. The summer dresses will be put away and soon strappy sandals will be traded in for flat, knee high leather boots. But on a positive note..... Fall clothes are fun and Fall handbags are even better. To make room for all the new bags I have been sewing I am clearing out a ton of bags. Everything in the cha cha samples shop has been drastically reduced to make room in the studio for cha cha's Fall line up. Get them while they can, these styles will not be going forward for Fall 2008. CHECK OUT THE DETAILS HERE!!

Entourage-Blueberry

BRAND NEW!!! click here for details.

Entourage Clutch-Blueberry

I love two things, clutches and blueberries. Usually these two loves don't cross paths but today they do. This blueberry coloured clutch will be great for Fall. I have been using clutches for years. I love them, they force me to carry less stuff. This slouchy medium clutch is so soft and comfortable. This leather feels great to hold and hangs great off your shoulder when you need a hands free day. It features, lots of room, three pockets, zipper closure and removable strap. CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

Happy Labour Day!

Everyday it seems like more and more companies are taking their business overseas. I know the bottom line is important to any business, no matter how big or small but on days like today I am proud that I have found a way to grow as a business, making every single bag and belt right here in Canada. I am quite fortunate to live in a city with so many resources close to me, almost all of my suppliers are within Toronto city limits. As cha cha grows I am able to further contribute to the success of my local suppliers. I know as a consumer price often dictates your choices, but just know that every time you buy local, no matter where you are in the world, you are helping your community grow stronger. I hope that as time goes on big businesses will again see the value in supporting the skilled and talented people right at their door steps. I thank each and every one of you who support cha cha in any way, by buying a bag, spreading the word, or just stopping by this site every now and then to see what I have been working on, I truly appreciate it. Happy Labour Day everyone!