I love an acronym: BOEWA is the Bureau of Exotic Waste Awareness.

Stemming from my use of fish skin in my Hermetica collection, I started making small goods and bags utilizing leathers sourced from invasive species or restaurant waste. Fashion needs an alternative to cruel farm-raised exotic leathers and I needed to learn what it takes to create ultra high quality leather-goods that last. To this day, I am still making changes, but I take great pride in the sourcing of my materials and supplies. I take my time while making things as every stitch, cut, and coat of edge paint, and have gone as far as to learn how to tan my own fish skin. Selling them at craft fairs and online has helped me to understand what customers are willing to pay and what niche my brand fills in the market.