Three years ago, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Northern Florida chapter began a fundraiser specifically for women.
The Bag Ladies Luncheon focused on increasing the awareness of services for cancer patients and a silent auction of designer handbags to raise money for the self-funded organization.
On Tuesday, May 20, the event will feature a speaker for the first time.
And not coincidentally, it will be entrepreneur and former Ponte Vedra Beach resident Susan Handley, whose Beijo bags have been included in past auctions.
For Handley, founder and CEO of Beijo Inc., the chance to share her inspirational story at a nonprofit event couldn't have come at a better time.
The company this single mom started six years ago with a loan from her parents is expecting $30 million to $35 million in retail sales this year.
Gucci NecklaceDimmable LED Down Light K1004H - 1x10W She's appeared on QVC and has entered a licensing agreement with Department 56 Lenox Group to have a signature line of handbags available in smaller, privately owned stores.
The business model of operating the company as a wholesaler to the more than 2,500 independent sales consultants, who buy the handbags and sell them at home parties, has grown to a point that Handley has become dedicated to philanthropic efforts. Causes the company supports include the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (Handley's mom is a breast cancer survivor), Dress for Success and Mom's Closet.
While she won't quit her day job of heading up the company and designing its wares, Handley will be putting more time toward giving back.
"Yes, they're great handbags but there's something greater going on here," Handley said. That greater force is illustrated by the company's 2008 Beijo Spring Launch Tour, during which teams of sales consultants raised $15,000 in three hours for several charities benefiting children, women and cancer patients.
When Handley comes to Jacksonville this month, she'll speak of growing her company from Ponte Vedra Beach to its Los Angeles headquarters with the knowledge her words can help raise money to help people fight cancer.
Even though she felt helpless when her mom was sick, Handley knows she can contribute now.
embroidered patches "Every little bit can help," she said. "If sharing my story can help raise money for [the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society], then I'm there."
, (904) 359-4640IF YOU GOWHAT: The third annual Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Bag Ladies Luncheon.WHEN: May 20, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.WHERE: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront hotel downtown.TICKETS: Individual tickets are $75 and a table for eight is $600. Call 332-6414.
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