The idea of this Inspiration Lab was to create an open-studio gathering where our BK community can meet our creative partner 1.61 Soft Goods who is behind our Essential leather inserts for Traveler's Notebook, BK leather charms, Napkin Sketchbook, Origami Leather Basket... and more!
Added (and huge) bonus: Diana and Wes of 1.61 Soft Goods offered to emboss our logo marks and favorite inspirational quotes on everyone's Traveler's Notebook as well as other selected leather items using the embossing machine they use in their workshop!
This event has been "in dreaming" for a year or so in my head... and "in making" for several months. Collaboration with our BK team and Diana and Wes to pull all the details together have been an incredible experience for us. Many meeting when we tested our samples and brainstormed on the "menu" of offering happened between their workshop and our studio.
The day was filled with great moments. Frido was the designated "design counselor" for everyone who wanted to emboss on their leather items. Diana and Wes got to meet everyone who attended the event. I loved that Diana and Wes were trusted to leave the embossing marks on many beautifully worn-in Traveler's Notebook. It's such a permanent mark on the leather and I totally understand that it requires significant amount of faith in process. Eunice and I were in charge of making everyone comfortable and also helping at the check out register.
To watch our lovely BK community come together physically in our studio was probably my biggest highlight. We are so used to connecting virtually... but NOTHING beats the real relationship we build by sharing the time, space and passion together.
Thank you Diana and Wes for sharing your talent. For our BK team for continuous support in making the event amazing... and THANK YOU, our amazing guests, in making this great gathering happen. I so appreciate you coming out on Saturday (in a heatwave) and sharing your love for Traveler's Notebook with us.
I captured a short clip of Diana and Wes getting ready in our studio on IG. Here is the link! Also #baumkuchenstudio and #bkinspirationlab bring up some images from our attendees and their "embossed" Traveler's Notebook!
Our next-up Inspiration Lab is with Amy Tangerine on July 31st! I hope you will be able to join this special gathering with her. I am definitely looking forward to embracing the ongoing analogue journey:)
xoxo
-wakako
