When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! And this is exactly what Susan John, owner and creative head of A Sunny Disposition (ASD) did. An architect by profession, Susan loved her job but quit when she got married and moved to the U.S.
Once there, the visa she held didn’t allow her to work. She volunteered at a library, participated in other activities to keep herself occupied and learned to sew. She was soon making trendy bags for herself and when she realised she had too many, she packed them up and took them to a tiny fair where they were nearly sold out.
It was then that she understood there was appreciation for her creations. This was four years ago.
Today, Susan’s enterprise is flourishing. She has a studio of her own and is a well-known face among crafters in the country.
“After getting married and moving to America, my life took another turn. We moved back to India and we soon had a baby. Initially I wanted an outlet for my creativity. Now this is what propels me. Each day I am excited to get to my studio and create. The feeling is like no other,” she says.
As her clients would vouch, the USP of Susan’s work is that each piece is made to order, with a lot of love and care, and of course attention to detail.
Priced between Rs. 350 and Rs. 3,000, Susan says: “I am very selective about the kind of bags I make. I make bags that challenge me creatively and products that I personally would use/wear.” From wallets with extra slots for a phone and a hook for keys, to diaper bags, sleeves for one’s electronic gadgets, and clutches for parties, Susan’s collection is an ode to indulgence. She has even introduced a new line of products- jewellery rolls, cosmetic pouches, bigger bags, and if you have a kid along with you while you travel, little kits that include a notepad and crayons all held together by an elastic cord!
Given that she loves what she does, Susan says: “I haven't really got to a point where I think it's difficult. Each problem is a challenge and each goof up an experience.” That said, she does feel that “sensitising the whole ‘handmade’ movement is a challenge but I am finding a whole lot of people now who appreciate and buy handmade products. Marketing and advertising your brand and letting people know of you while at the same time making enough time to do what you love is painstaking.”
Looking ahead, the entrepreneur states: “I love the organic pace at which ASD is growing and don't have any lofty plans for its future. But to always love what I am doing and hope that is reflected on the products will be my goal.”
This column features those who choose to veer off the beaten track.
