Meet Anna the inspiration for the Anna Bag

Apr 18, 2017

When and how did you meet Bec and Adam? What was your first impression?

I met Bec at a trade show in Sydney in February 2015. We bonded quickly over our love for all things small business and the fact that we were from Perth. We discussed the joys and challenges of dragging our business from Perth to Sydney and how tired we were. Lots of coffees were drunk and we vowed to catch up when we returned to Perth. I was excited to learn that Bec didn’t live too far away from my house so we could continue our coffee addiction in Perth! My first impression of Bec was that she was fun, a master in all things laser cutting and a true cheerleader for small businesses. (Sorry Adam, I can’t remember when I first met you – somewhere along the lines when we were back in Perth! I imagine that my first impression of Adam would have been that he is quiet, but has a wicked sense of humour).

Did you know they were making a bag they would name after you?

I knew a bag was being made, but I had no idea that it was going to be named after me! Being a friend of Bec and Adam I am privileged to hear about business ideas over brunch dates. I knew a bag was being designed and I loved it way back in its prototype stage. I guess my reaction to how cool the bag was back then may have led to the bag being named after me.

What do you put in your bag?

The essentials, my wallet (which is more like small card holder), my iphone, sunscreen (because I burn way too quickly for a brunette), Bal D’Afrique by Byredo parfum, bright red lipstick, hairpins and my earrings.

Where does it your bag go with you?

Everywhere, it’s my go-to bag! I get so many compliments on it and I get a huge kick out of saying it’s the“Anna bag”. I take it to the coffee shop, out to markets on the weekend, to wineries and everywhere in between.

You had the unique opportunity of testing the design before it was released, can you remember your first impression? How has it gone over time? What features do you love?

I remember distinctively seeing the prototype for the first time and thinking: “I hope Bec finishes that soon because I want one NOW!” I was impatient to get my hands on my very own bag. Luckily for me, Bec is quick at designing her works and it was only a few weeks later that I received my very own bag. The bag is very robust and has lasted despite my rough behaviour. It has fallen out of cars, thrown onto floors and has been opened countless times. The leather is strong and has softened over time also.

My favourite feature on the bag is the wooden panel on the front. It’s a beautiful accent and brings a sophisticated earthy-ness to the bag. I love that the wood is bendy, it’s a little confusing at first to work out how the wood is bendy (it’s a bit magical), which I think what makes it so unique.

We think your pretty awesome, tell us what are your top 5 things to do on the weekend?

Coffee dates with my husband in the Swan Valley
Catching up with friends over a bottle of wine and chocolate
Exploring local markets to see the latest handmade goodies
Gardening and growing vegetables in my backyard.
Practicing my Italian language with my Italian friend living in Italy.

Anna is the owner and head designer of One Happy Leaf. One Happy Leaf is passionate about making beautiful jewellery where fashion + sustainability can coexist. Anna designs + makes jewellery that’s an eco-friendly alternative to mainstream jewellery. Her jewellery pieces remind the wearer that our connection to nature matters. One Happy Leaf is on a mission to make the world a greener place. For every order placed, a tree is planted on your behalf.