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Inspiration in full bloom

Hope Garden: The Story Behind the Name

BY Kristy McClain, Marketing Coordinator

Fort Wayne, Indiana (June 1, 2009) — From Return to Happiness to Pinwheel Pink, Vera Bradley has designed a pattern with The Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer in mind for the last nine years. We sat down with Veronique Poudrier, Vera Bradley Senior Director of Design and Product Development, to find out more about the inspiration behind Hope Garden, the newest Foundation pattern for Spring 2009. We also learned the touching story behind the new Lisa B handbag.

Why do you think it's important for Vera Bradley to have a color that support breast cancer research?

It’s hope for a cure, a change. The majority of us have been impacted by breast cancer in some way. Whether we have had it ourselves or have known a family member or a friend who has suffered, this color gives inspiration and confidence that one day no lives will be impacted by this disease. It represents hope for the future.

What was your inspiration behind Hope Garden?

The inspiration came from Impressionist and Fauvist painters such as Monet and Matisse. Reference to these masters is an important print trend we will see continuing for several seasons. Brushstroke-like movements as well as multi-colored, floral patterns offer a free flowing, English garden style. In fact, we initially named this pattern, English Garden. When we decided to dedicate this pattern to the Foundation, it naturally became Hope Garden!

Why was this particular color chosen to support breast cancer research?

Wayne McGee, a close friend of Vera Bradley and CEO of McGee Group, which specializes in eyewear, lost his wife Jenny Lynn to breast cancer. When he saw the pattern, he was extremely inspired by its hope and beauty. He suggested this should be our new breast cancer awareness color and we couldn’t have agreed more.

Tell us about the story behind the Lisa B.

We receive many letters, but one from Kathie Barniak about her niece, Lisa Barniak, really touched our hearts. Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer following the birth of her daughter. She bravely fought the disease, regaining her health and giving birth to her second healthy child. But soon after, Lisa’s cancer returned. Sadly, she lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of 40.

Kathie’s poignant letter included stories of Lisa’s long days of cancer treatments that often ended with a much-needed stop by the hospital gift shop for some Vera Bradley products to brighten her day. Because Vera Bradley brought her so much happiness, we thought naming a bag in Lisa’s honor would make a fitting tribute. Through correspondence with Lisa’s family, our design team created a bag that suits her unique style. The Lisa B not only honors Lisa’s extraordinary life, but also recognizes countless women around the world who are fighting breast cancer.

What was your inspiration for the style of the Lisa B?

This is a Hobo style. Hobos have a broad appeal and have become a staple in our Signature line. We have designed many variations of this favorite everyday bag. The vertical zipper pockets and silver hardware make this one unique. Of course, practicality and function are always on our minds so you will find inside pockets and a shoulder strap length that is “just right.” The Lisa B is currently our best-selling new style.

What is your hope for women affected by breast cancer?

We want them to feel good, feel colorful, feel like spring is around the corner and feel empowered.

Hope Garden

10% of net proceeds from the sale of products in Hope Garden are donated to the Foundation and other breast cancer projects and services.

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