ENTREPRENEURS TO ADMIRE
Name of Company: AtelierCG
Entrepreneur: Cindy G.

1) What inspired you to start your own business?

I had worked in the fashion industry for about 7 years. In 2009 I started my first handbag company with my ex-husband.

We got separated in 2015. That year was an extreme rollercoaster, more like a downhill crash, without breaks. I was experiencing serious health issues, including a stroke, and I even spent a weekend in a psychiatric health ward. My time was thus limited with my kids.

My kids are my life and my drive to move forward. During the time at the Psychiatric Hospital I kept writing “ stay strong, don’t let them tame you”
I now have a tattoo on my wrist , “stay strong” and the slogan “don’t let them tame you” is engraved in my jewelry and printed on my t-shirts.

By the end of 2015, my munchkins and I were together again.  In the beginning of 2016, I started a new company called AtelierCG with the simple promise and goal that if I could support myself through my designs, I would take the kids to Disneyland :) They actually chose Universal Studios instead, but mission accomplished! :)

I have the pleasure to work with stores across the US, Australia and England. Got the opportunity to create a custom collection for Cavalia Odyseo and I am proud to be part of Breeders Cup.

2) What is the best business advice you ever received that you would like to share (if applicable)?
I can tell you what kept me going, the Question “When do you think it is time to give up”? My reaction to that was, and still is, let me prove you wrong :) Giving up does not exist in my vocabulary. If you want something bad enough you will go the extra mile. Use any discouragement to your advantage and as a drive to prove that you will make it happen!

3) More about AtelierCG: 

AtelierCG is the start of a new beginning. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design. As my riding instructor always told me, and as I found has also helped me in life. If you fall off your horse you get back in the saddle. Inspired by the feeling of freedom when riding, you are not just controlling an object, it is a lifestyle. I truly hope that is what my clients feel when wearing ACG. My handbags are made with original English reins as shoulder straps and finished with the same stitch technique found in saddles and bridles.

The Signature bracelet Bandit is designed out of a curb chain found in bridles and hand braided with leather.

The newest additions are the Tobiano Bangle with a lock closure and the slogan “don’t let them tame you” engraved on the top bar, the Tobiano Signature Ring with the same slogan engraved in the inside of the ring and t-shirts with the screen print “ don’t let them tame you” will be available as made to order pieces. As a little reminder to keep moving forward.

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View a Glimpse of the AtelierCG Collection BELOW