Yesterday, I had a fantastic opportunity to discuss our Flag Bags on Trinidad & Tobago’s The Morning Brew. Being interviewed about my business, Frangipani Palm, was a surreal experience. As a kid, I loved to do fake interviews and flip my hair like this confident and courageous celebrity. Now, I do actual interviews and try not to throw up from being so nervous.
When I first started designing these island-shaped flag bags, it was more of a personal project. It all began after a trip to Guyana, where I was captivated by the beautiful leather bags shaped like the country. That vacation sparked an idea: what if I made my bag for Carnival, something sporty that can take a whine and flashy, so you know what it is? So, I created my first bag, shaped like an island, and what started as a personal gift to myself quickly caught the attention of others.
In the interview, I shared how that initial design led to the birth of Frangipani Palm, a brand my mom and I built together. Each bag we design is more than an accessory; it represents identity, culture, and pride. From the colorful flags of the Caribbean to requests for designs that stretch as far as Japan, our business has grown beyond what I initially imagined.
It felt great to explain the “why” behind what we do—each bag is as unique as the land it represents. It’s about celebrating our roots and offering something beautiful and meaningful for others to carry.
Being on TV was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but it was also a proud moment to share what we do with a broader audience. I’m excited about where Frangipani Palm will go from here, and I’m thankful for the continued support from our community.
If you missed the interview, you can watch it on YouTube!
https://youtu.be/CkrQDDNTU1g