Close Window

Jennarong

" Sawasdee Krab! I'm Jennarong Hangsakul, and I'm the youngest of 10 children. We grew up in a warm family environment of Chinese origin. We're a close-knit family, but when my father passed away everything changed. I was 15 years old at the time and I became very sad. It also put a strain on our financial situation, which meant I had to work in some way.

"My father remains a big inspiration in my life. He was a dressmaker and he taught me everything he knew. The idea of designing bags came from observing my girl friends and how much they loved them.

"I don't have formal training in design, in fact I graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration. At first I had a full time job and I would make the bags during my spare time. As orders increased, I had to cut down to a part-time job, and as demand for my designs grew, I realized I'd much rather be dedicated full time to my bags and quit my job in administration. It was a challenge for me, but I went ahead anyway and I am glad I did.

"I rely on my father's teachings and my own experience when I make a bag. I check magazines and the Internet to stay current with trends and styles so my designs remain modern.

"In Thailand, we adhere to traditional values, which I'm proud to follow. As such, when I became 25 years old I ordained as a priest as tradition dictates, upon request of my parents. I lead an easy-going life, I do not adhere to a materialistic lifestyle and I always strive to do my best. That is why I ensure that every bag is made with the best materials and with the highest of quality in order to procure customer satisfaction.

"I feel very proud to have a career doing what I love to do. One of my main interests is saving the environment, so I work with natural materials only, whereas once I used to include plastic. As demand for my bags has risen, I am able to offer work to others in my community who specialize in weaving, crochet and embroidery. They are expert in traditional styles and patterns, which I love to integrate into my more contemporary designs. To me it means that through my work I contribute to preserving the environment as well as Thai traditional artistry. I also contribute to local economies by buying the materials at different villages.

"To Novica customers I'd like to say I hope you are satisfied with my designs, and I welcome any comments you might have. I hope you too are doing something towards saving the planet."