Seeking to bridge the gap between sophistication and security, Offero Handbags, empower women with the luxury of knowing they have a beautifully exquisite and protected bag wherever life may take them.Check out our exclusive interview with Anna Marie Dobbins, lead designer of Offero Handbags.
You are known for such memorable roles in Foot-loose, The Vampire Diaries and most recently opposite Eric Roberts in the Lifetime thriller feature film, Stalked by My Doctor: Patient’s Revenge. And you have now added lead designer/entrepreneur to your resume with an all-new luxury handbag line, Offero Handbags. Where does the name Offero originate and what inspired you to start this journey?
Saint Christopher is the patron saint of travel and protection. His original name before becoming a saint was Offero. We chose to use Offero for our handbags offering protection for our customers as they travel near and far.
Why is it so important for you to create a fashionable, but practical handbag line with anti-theft features to bridge the gap between sophistication and security? Do you foresee the two being incorporated into more future fashion ideas?
Theft happens every day, all around the world and no-one ever thinks it will happen to them. We want to educate our customers while bringing awareness to protect yourself and your belongings. Our anti-theft handbags use the most desirable materials sourced in Italy and are all domestically made in the United States to ensure the highest level of artisanship matched with quality. We push boundaries and break down customary barriers to create an exquisite, secure handbag.
Most millennial’s like companies/ brands that give back. How do you feel Offero Handbags is reaching the millennial’s through your support of disaster relief efforts?
A percentage of all sells go towards filling our disaster relief bags with essential items to aide people directly affected by natural disasters. By purchasing a hand-bag and not only do you invest in yourself, you are making a difference in someone else’s life. We have already sent out our disaster relief bags to aide those who were affected by hurricane Michael.
What is your most popular handbag from the three different styles? Aside from the security what are your most popular features?
They are all so different and they are all selling equally fast. It depends on what you like in a handbag. If you are one to carry everything with you for the day, the MIAMI is the perfect tote bag. If light and carefree is your style, the LA clutch is the way to go. The Manhattan is the perfect everyday bag as it is easy transitional from day to night.
We are widely loved for our patent pending design feature of our chain belt that is incorporated into every bags design.
What has been your greatest challenge/ reward since starting Offero Handbags?
One challenge was selecting all the materials. We did not spare any expense. We integrated the top of the line slash proof material, RFID shielding fabric, Italian leathers and suede, and our custom combination lock.
The production of these bags brought on its own challenges. Since they are lined with Slash Proof material, they are not easily cut. Our New York manufacturer brought in top of the line blades to precisely cut our handbags to their perfect shape.
What sets Offero Handbags apart from other handbag lines offering similar security features?
We are the only one bringing you quality Italian Leathers, Italian Suede, and Water Resistant Leathers while integrating fashion with safety. One should never have to sacrifice fashion for safety.
Where do you see Offero Handbags in 3 to 5 years? Do you plan to expand your brand to include apparel/ footwear?
We have a lot of big plans for OFFERO, you will have to stay tuned!
Do you feel the arts and entrepreneurship are connect-ed? Has the transition from actress to entrepreneurship been an easy one because of your built in fan base?
Nothing is ever easy. Everything comes with hard work and persistency. You need to work hard to have people trust in not only you but your product. Offero has been in the works for 2 years. We overcame setbacks and struggles of our own. Rome was not built in a day and neither is any brand or company.
Complete this sentence…
When I am not acting or designing I like to spend time with loved ones or catch a good movie at the theater in my downtime.
The entire breathtaking collection launched October 15th, and is available for purchase online at offerohandbags.com