Kimberly Sweeney and her partner Lillian Kafka started making their wearable, fashionable hip purses, “Bustle Packs” two years ago in 2010.  Inspired by a handmade hip bag Kim had bought on Etsy, Lillian suggested making their own.  A unique product was born from their original patterns, and they are finding the bags to be in quite high demand!  The cute ruffles make them almost like a clothing accessory with a secret extra benefit of being a purse. The funky up-cycled fabrics give them a ton of personality, and are great for the environment, too.

Kimberly has been working with clothes since her mother gave her a sewing machine as a young girl.  The gift opened a pathway of creativity that Kim has continued ever since, whether it’s sewing, painting, or crafting.  Lillian also grew up in a crafty household and is most fulfilled when she is making things with her own hands.  Both girls find their inspiration comes to them naturally without ever having to force the process.  Lillian’s ideas come from the emotional response she has to colors or texture.  Kim derives her inspiration from music, the outdoors, and meeting people.  The positive response they’ve had from their customers keeps them motivated, and with new people every day wanting bustle packs “we can’t give up now!” says Lillian.  Kim can’t wait to have this creative venture be her full time job, though she works as a baker now making a different type of sweet product to put smiles on customer’s faces.  Both girls just aren’t happy unless they are producing!  Kim’s ultimate goal is to have her own shop where she can sell her bags as well as arts and crafts from other artists.  .

I got a bustle pack of my very own while Kim was vending at our Mad Tea Party this last weekend in June, and I didn’t take it off for three days!  The convenience of not having a purse on your shoulder while dancing and running around at a festival, show, or hike, is a sigh of relief that every girl should feel.  They also give you a little extra shimmy while you’re dancing to the music.  By the time the show was over, every girl there wanted one and gave Kim some custom orders.  How can you resist something so cute and functional all at once?  Just whatever you do, don’t call them fanny packs!

Lillian is currently selling her bustle packs in Denver, while Kimberly’s home base is in Fredericksburg, Virginia .  They will both be traveling this summer to craft shows and festivals spreading their crafty love all over the country.  You can run into them at a show or order one from the convenience of your own home by going to http://bustlepacks.com/order-a-bustle-pack/find-a-store-near-you/ or their etsy shop at www. etsy.com/shop/bustlepacks.  Follow their Twitter @BustlePacks to find where they’ll be next!