Imagine moving to a new state at the age of eight and through the adjustment, discovering a love for artistic expression that would ignite an adventurous spirit within you. That's exactly what happened to Antoine Manning, Founder of Homage Year, a thriving handbag and accessory design company. Antoine's journey from his early love of Japanese comics to his successful career in fashion is not your typical story. In our enlightening conversation, he gives us an inside look at his artistic endeavors and the resilience of experiencing loss at a young age, that it took to chase his dreams, despite the odds. Antoine's first bag sample was more than just a product; it was a testament to patience, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep understanding of how to navigate the fashion industry. From selecting the perfect materials to mastering the art of pricing and promotion, Antoine gives us a masterclass in launching a product. But it wasn't all smooth sailing. With unflinching honesty, he shares the challenges he faced, the support he received from his family, and the strategic moves he made to ensure the success of his brand. What truly sets Antoine apart is his ability to infuse his work with love and memory. The evolution of his brand and the artistic process behind his bag designs are as vibrant and full of life as the man himself. Antoine's intention behind his color choices, his collaboration with Nordstrom, and the creation of the mini mini bag and exclusive black bag reveal a unique perspective on fashion. But it's the dates on his brand's social media and the way he incorporates the memory of those who have passed away into his designs that reflect the depth of his artistic vision. Join us for this compelling conversation and discover how Antoine's story is not just about creating beautiful accessories; it's about living a life full of courage, creativity, and love. Follow Antoine Manning: https://www.instagram.com/manningantoine/  https://www.instagram.com/homageyear/ Shop Handbag Designer 101 Merch: https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/category/all-products Book a handbag session with Emily: https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/ Hire Emily to be a guest speaker at your event: https://www.emilyblumenthal.com/speaking Subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HandbagDesigner101-IHDA Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handbagdesigner/ Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@handbagdesigner Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/handbagdesigner