I was lucky enough to escape the cold in July for a whirlwind visit to Delhi, a city swimming with colour and alive with inspiration.
My first International tradeshow was an eye opening display of India's incredible craftmanship, I came away with lots of business cards and met a kind American girl come Indian native who not only charged my iphone and revived me with some sweet Marsala tea but we are now developing Lanamara's first jewellery collection together.
Catching up with my suppliers is always a highlight, it's so inspiring to see what they are creating with new techniques and materials and I always come away wanting to design more beautiful bags for you!
The samples are coming together and we can't wait to share our new leather collection for SS23 with you in the coming weeks.
I had the opportunity to visit the atelier of Indian couture label Patine and it was the most amazing experience to witness the delicate and expert craftmanship of these talented artisans.
I wished my mum could have been with me as we always bond over beautiful textiles and to see them made from start to finish was incredible.
The sight of cows wandering down busy highways is something that I'm still getting used to!
I have to admit I was incredibly anxious about taking this trip on my own, and after being turned away at the airport when I arrived at Melbourne Airport as I didn't have the correct travel Visa, I almost didn't go.
But I'm so glad I embraced my fears and pushed myself to get on a plane the next day.
I hope to return many more times and to share all its beauty, artisans, culture, craftmanship and kindness through Lanamara.
With love, Marika xx