Born in Petersburg, Virginia, Nneka Saran Hurley has always had a love and passion for making things. At the age of nine, she was introduced to a needle and thread. From pillows to doll clothes, she was always creating something with the help of her mother, who was a school teacher. While attending Hampton University, Nneka created a hand-stitched clothing line, but it wasn’t until a few years later after receiving a sewing machine for Christmas, that her first handbag was fashioned.
After completing her undergraduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, she packed her bags and moved to Philadelphia, Pa. In 2005, while out fabric shopping, Nneka was inspired by a funky print and decided to make a small bag out of it. After receiving several compliments, she made ten more bags and ended up selling them all in one weekend. It was then she had her “Ah hah” moment. She stepped out on faith and her handbag line was born.
Fast forward, one score and a handbag launch later, Nneka’s creations can be spotted on the arms of celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Eve, Keyshia Cole, and Vivica Fox, to name a few. Nneka describes her collections as arm candy for the trendsetting woman, the fashionista at heart. She designs her handbags for women who appreciate being unique, fashionable, and a bit edgy. Funky prints, bold hardware, and oversized styles can all be found in her line. Her true joy comes from the excitement, pride, and satisfaction expressed from the women who carry her bags. The note of inspiration she places in each bag adds that special touch and offers her customers a small piece of the faith that has kept her going. Most recently, Nneka has changed the name of her line to Nneka Saran Handbags.
Today, Nneka resides in New Jersey where she is close to one of the fashion capitals of the world. With a growing customer base, this recent F.I.T. student looks forward to extending her line to leather goods, diaper bags, travel luggage, and home décor.
Born in Petersburg, Virginia, Nneka Saran Hurley has always had a love and passion for making things. At the age of nine, she was introduced to a needle and thread. From pillows to doll clothes, she was always creating something with the help of her mother, who was a school teacher. While attending Hampton University, Nneka created a hand-stitched clothing line, but it wasn’t until a few years later after receiving a sewing machine for Christmas, that her first handbag was fashioned.