Born in Petersburg, Virginia, I have always had a love and passion for making things. At the age of nine, I was introduced to a needle and thread. From pillows to doll clothes, I was always creating something with the help of my mother, who was a school teacher. While attending Hampton University, I created a hand-stitched clothing line, but it wasn’t until a few years later after receiving a sewing machine for Christmas, that my first handbag was fashioned.
After completing my undergraduate studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, I packed my bags and moved to Philadelphia. In 2005, while out fabric shopping, I was inspired by a funky print and decided to make a small bag out of it. After receiving several compliments, I made ten more bags and ended up selling them all in one weekend. It was then I had my “Ah hah” moment. I stepped out on faith and Nneka Hurley Handbags was born.
Fast forward, one score and a handbag launch later, my creations can be spotted on the arms of celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Eve, Keyshia Cole, and Vivica Fox, to name a few. I describe my collections as arm candy for the trendsetting woman, the fashionista at heart. I design my handbags for women who appreciate being unique, fashionable, and a bit edgy. Funky prints, bold hardware, and oversized styles can all be found in my line. My true joy comes from the excitement, pride, and satisfaction expressed from the women who carry my bags. A note of inspiration comes in each bag which I feel adds a special touch and offers my customers a small piece of the faith that has kept me going.
Today, I reside in New Jersey where I’m close to one of the fashion capitals of the world, New York. With a growing customer base, I’m excited about what the future holds and I look forward to extending my line to leather goods, diaper bags, travel luggage, and home décor. Most recently, I have changed the line name to Nneka Saran (which is my middle name) Handbags by Nneka Hurley.
I want to thank everyone who has supported me and I hope you will continue to do so in the future! Remember this is the year to make IT happen!! Write the vision, make it plain! Dream BIG, work hard and let God handle the rest! "Faith without works is dead"!(James 2:20) GOD BLESS
Hey soror! Hailing all the way from Gulfport, Mississippi. In this pic are 2 more of your customers, sorors Nicole and Kia. Kia referred us to you so she thought she would stand in the middle and show the purses off!!! :-) We LOVE your bags...when is the new line coming out? -Cyla
Hi Nneka. I met you at the Circle of Sistes in NY and loved all of your bags. I'm interested in purchasing a bag for myself. How would I go about purchasing one of your fabulous bags.
