BY SARAH K. TOHL
It started with one special bag – a “multi-colored beaded bag,” which led to many avenues of business for Anita Davis, creator and owner of Got Purseonality. With this unique find, Davis received a number of compliments that ultimately sparked the inspiration for her company.
“I purchased about six or seven more of the same bag, wholesale, and sold these out of my home mainly to friends, and friends of friends,” says Davis. “From there I grew.”
Got Purseonality owner, Anita Davis. Photo: Sarah K. Tohl
For nearly three years Davis was building on the success of her idea. And when her home became crowded by her larger selection of stylish bags, Davis was ready to expand her business.
B. Makowsky “Taipei Large Hobo” ($278). “Studded bags are very ‘in’,” says Davis.
Now, eight years later, Davis has found success in an industrial complex in Westlake Village, where two rooms are filled with an array of bags and accessories; mainly bags. Currently, such items range from well-known labels like Francesco Biasia, Hype, and Isabella Fiore, to up-and-coming brands such as Big Buddha, JPK Paris 75, and Tano Handbags. Additional labels include B. Makowsky, Linea Pelle, Forty-Nine Square Miles, and many more.
Big Buddha “Mia” bag ($85) “Anything floral is big right now,” says Davis.
The prices are extremely reasonable as Davis sells below the usual tripled retail markup, and she only offers products marketed by dependable companies.
“I only deal with companies that if there’s a problem, they will fix it,” says Davis. “I like to service my clients as best as I can.”
Immeasurable is one of Tano's hottest new bags. Featuring Tano's Italian crunch leather, a large zipper pocket inside, and great side detail ($189).
Got Purseonality is typically open seven days a week – that is when Davis is not too busy preparing for one of her many purse parties. These are a big deal, according to Davis, who books at least one every week or two. Her purse parties may consist of a mimosa brunch, or an evening of wine and cheese, accompanied by shopping, for anyone that wishes to organize one of these gatherings. Best of all, Davis has an eye for fashion and knows what looks good for women of all ages.
Available in an array of colors, this JPK Bucket Handbag is lined and made of canvas with beautiful hardware ($165).
“When clients come in I’m very honest with them,” says Davis. “That’s what they like. If something doesn’t work, I will tell them.”
Tano’s “Forward-Thinking” bag is very popular this season, and quite practical with two pocket compartments in the front and a large zipper compartment on the back. ($235)
Not only does Davis have a strong sense of style, she is an admirable businesswoman.
“I do this all by myself,” says Davis.
And when she is not at the store, or shipping out orders to regions as far as Australia for online purchases, Davis can be spotted at outside events of various sorts. These include purse parties for members of E! Entertainment and the “Dr. Phil Show,” in addition to big charity events, such as the recent Women’s Conference hosted by Maria Shriver.
Cebu small evening clutch ($30).
As of now, Davis is focusing on the success of her website, www.gotpurseonality.com, as well as prepping for numerous purse parties scheduled for this holiday season.
Accessories and jewelry are also part of the inventory. Photo: Sarah K. Tohl
Sarah K. Tohl is a life-long Valley resident. She graduated Pitzer College in 2009 with a special major that combined the fields of writing and media studies, titled: “Verbal and Visual Languages.”
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