Seimone Loupé, the owner of Eclectic Totes LLC, launched her tote bag business in 2020. During all of the tragedies and restrictions during the pandemic, it was time for a change. It was necessary to bring a sense of liveliness to her world, even if it meant wearing totes and fabrics from other countries. The idea derived from desiring chic, multi-cultural bags for all occasions. To feel like one is on vacation within their own city, even if it means taking a simple walk on the beach or nearby park.
Eclectic Totes is the new wave of artistic and vibrant eco-friendly bags that are durable, affordable and classy. The Eclectic Line embodies unique bags from multiple countries around the globe. Each tote is handmade from regions which include Bali, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, London, India, Canada, Mexico, U.S.A. and more!
Eclectic’s unique African Collection line are handcrafted by Artisans from Kenya and Ghana. During the COVID-19 pandemic, over 42,000 layoffs have occurred in Ghana. Thousands of businesses have had challenges including a decrease in sales. Eclectic Totes donates 10% of all proceeds from our African Collection line to the Artisan Relief Fund. These funds are employed strictly to support Artisans with demonstrated need.
FWM: You had an epiphany during the pandemic and decided to launch, Eclectic Totes. Tell us why it was time for a change.
The pandemic was a complete shock to the system when it all began. Hearing the death tolls every morning, and learning friends and family were impacted put me in a state of extreme sadness and confusion. Aside from the pandemic, my spirit was crushed due to the constant police brutality, in which impacted the black community, which left me heart broken. During the mandatory lock down, I yearned to travel and spend time dinning with friends. I needed to figure out a way to break the monotony of my daily routine. I remember waking up one morning and feeling the urge to make a difference. Eclectic Totes was a vision that I had for a few years prior to 2020, and I felt it was time to create, bring light and peace to my spirit as well as to the public. Once the travel ban was lifted, I knew it would be time for women to travel and feel proud to wear bags that are unique and diverse. I wanted to hand select styles that would bring warmth and a sense of confidence for anyone that represented my brand. Being eclectic means you do not fit into one particular box, but instead draw upon various styles. It was time to introduce the world to Eclectic Totes.
FWM: Eclectic’s unique African Collection line are handcrafted by Artisans from Kenya and Ghana. Why is this so important to you?
It was important to me because I am of African descent, so I chose to pursue Africa first. During the COVID-19 pandemic, over 42,000 layoffs have occurred in Ghana. Thousands of businesses have had challenges including a decrease in sales. Eclectic Totes donates 10% of all proceeds from our African Collection line to the Artisan Relief Fund. These funds are employed strictly to support Artisans with demonstrated needs.
Diamond Leather Trimmed tote- New Arrival
FWM: Share your popular designs.
Currently our best sellers include the Embellished Colorful Spring tote, Diamond Leather trimmed bag, Gold Silver Medallion Jute Tote along with the Jute Round Black Scroll tote.
FWM: What lessons have you learned along the way?
The greatest obstacles for an online business are finding ways to drive traffic to your website, marketing, posting ads, and time management. It is imperative to find time to manage multiple social media platforms with content on a weekly basis. Some entrepreneurs try to run their business alone, but the truth is it takes a team to operate successfully. Asking for help makes you stronger as a business owner. Last but not least would be business funding in the beginning. We are at the 1 – 1/2-year mark and I can say it has been an expensive road to ensure you have shipping supplies, marketing materials, money for travel, and paying your employees. Although we are extremely successful during our pop-up shops, we are still attempting to grow our online presence.
FWM: Eclectic Totes offers the perfect combination of stylish totes and handmade jewelry, perfect for weddings and Summer outings. Please share a few chic combinations.
I adore our new gold plated Jade necklaces which would add a pop of color to our Jute Round Black Scroll totes. Jade is a mineral that has benefits that include grounding and moral integrity. Jute is a natural fiber, and the leaves include minerals and are extracted from the Jute plant (Corchorus Capsularis). The necklace and tote pair are beautiful and natural. Our Crystal Quartz gold bangle is majestic and is perfect to wear at a classy occasion. I would pair this bracelet with our embellished colorful spring tote which is light and durable.
FWM: Your brand is in Southern California and is drawing attention from Celebrities. What sets you apart?
Eclectic Totes are unique in style and are handmade in different regions from around the world. The artisans use natural fibers from the earth which is good for the environment and makes them eco-friendly. I hand select each item and have the totes shipped directly from the artisans. We work hand in hand and expect to have longstanding relationships.
FWM: Tell us about your latest elegant tote from India.
Our Eclectic Fringy colorful tote is large in size and is handmade. Each stitch is intricate and detailed with colors that include yellow, magenta, powder blue and gold. This bag definitely makes a statement and is perfect for a walk at the beach or your next spa day. The fringe and pompoms are fun and eclectic. The tote fits everything from beach towels, your favorite magazines, or even your laptop. The size is 15”x22”.
FWM: Share your vision for 2022. Do you plan on any collaborations?
Our team includes Los Angeles-based top artists, seamstresses, and designers and we are currently working on our 2022 Eclectic Totes Winter Collection. I would like anyone from all walks of life that love vibrant, eclectic fashion to wear my bags. It would also be a great honor to see my bags represented by humanitarians, entrepreneurs, female leaders of power, influencers and celebrities from across the world.
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I have purchased several items from Seimone from her Eclectic Totes line, including a beautiful natural woven blue handbag, a gorgeous winter scarf, and several quality pieces of jewelry. I always receive compliments on my items whenever I am out. Seimone is a pleasure to work with as she is very professional. My items were received quickly and packed with care. I will continue to support Eclectic Totes in the future for my unique items and gifts. Please support this entrepreneur, you won’t regret it.
I purchased several totes and jewelry for my family from the Eclectic Totes line. Eclectic Totes elegant packaging and thank you note put a special personal touch to the items. My family are now repeat customer’s. I look forward to seeing the upcoming collection. Eclectic Totes has customer for life.
I have several items from Eclectic Totes and each one brings an energy of light. I appreciate that Seimone is intentional and very creative when designing her unique items. There is something about wearing my Eclectic Totes items, it brings a sense of confidence and pride.
I purchased a bracelet & bag and received compliments on the items at work. I made another purchase for my coworker/friend as a birthday gift . All of my purchases were received in a timely manner. I will continue to shop with Eclectic Totes. I check the website weekly for new arrivals.
Eclectic Totes is one of my favorite brands. The first thing I noticed when browsing the products during the pop-up events is that the products are made from quality materials. Here in Los Angeles, we have a lot of variety in retail and after a while everything starts to look the same. This brand’s unique style gives me a sense of individuality. Each item is like a small treasure as unique as the woman who wears it. As a Ghanian American, I respect the owner’s commitment to give back to the community and the people who create these stunning works of art. I cannot wait to see the new winter collection.