Sseko Fall Collection 2020

Travel “Beyond” with Sseko

At Sseko, we’re doing what we can to help you look Beyond the current crisis and witness women make the world a better place

I am excited to announce the launch of the Sseko Fall “Beyond” Collection launching today. at 11am PST.

Bring on darker shades, luxurious layers and all the patterned prints. The Fall 2020 'Beyond' Collection has a gorgeous array of versatile apparel pieces, stunning bags, handcrafted statement jewelry, and eye-catching footwear– You’re sure to find everything you need to complete your perfect fall wardrobe.

Because of the current climate, it is just Beyond incredible that Sseko was able to launch a collection this Fall. COVID-19 has hit the fashion industry hard and we all have seen stores closing and big, chain companies are cancelling orders. Fashion industry workers are not getting paid for work they’ve already done. The workers who are most vulnerable are now even more so.

Sseko believes in a larger mission. We believe that it’s not always about the bottom line, but by building a business together, and being true to all of the employees, we create a model that works and supports everyone. At Sseko, many of our pieces are being made by women employed by Sseko, those that are not Sseko employees are part of the Fair Trade Movement. It is because of this collective ambition and commitment, our family isn’t just surviving - we’re thriving.

Our CEOs, Ben and Liz Bohannan are launching the collection LIVE on Facebook at 5pm PST. Let them explain just how much work went into launching this Collection during COVID and how Sseko is helping to keep the women who create these beautiful products in Uganda, Ethiopia and India safe and employed during this global pandemic.

Something Sseko cannot predict is how quickly the items will sell out. Keeping our Sisters safe overseas during the pandemic means lower inventory and slower shipping. If there is something from the new collection you can’t live without, I would encourage you to click that “Purchase” button quickly!

If that “can’t live without” item is a struggle financially, you can schedule a Facebook Trunk Show with me and I’m sure your friends would love to get together on a Zoom party with a little wine and their credit cards. You could earn those big ticket wish list items quickly. Contact me for details ….

In the meantime, I will be getting ready to click my own “Purchase” button for the things I can’t live without and provide a little support to my Sseko Sisters globally.

A few things to point out:

• “Like a Girl” black tee is back with limited quantities in sizes 2-20.

• The new “Say Yes to Adventure” tee is our latest t-shirt in a beautiful wine color.

• The Kawa print is back by popular demand in gorgeous bags, clothing and accessories.

• We’re introducing the short black kaftan for those extra COVID pounds to wear for all your holiday gatherings, but also to show off those gorgeous legs! Add a little heel or sandals and your favorite bling and you’re ready for anything.

Watch my IG posts for items I purchased today …

Introducing The Fall 2020 Beyond Collection. Somewhere beyond our wildest imaginations, our darkest doubts, our insecurities, our wounds, and our naysayers. Beyond me and you, there is us. And we are better together. We can't get there by going over or under, only through.

What are you carrying this summer?

Well, hello summer …

time to break out my Sseko jute summer tote

Sseko’s Summer Capsule launched and I have been loving the items I pre-ordered. A favorite is this Jute Ring Handle Tote. I’m all about stripes this year - I can’t get enough! The size of this is awesome and it has enough room to fit all my essentials (including my MacBook!) I was pretty surprised!!

As many of you already know, Sseko employs 61 full-time workers in Uganda. Our Sseko Scholars complete a nine-month employment program that enables them to continue on to college. After your purchase, you can read about their dreams and ambitions and get an update on Sseko graduates! In addition to our university-bound class, we employ women from all walks of life. Moms, daughters, designers, and cooks all working together to make the world a little brighter. Meet the women of Sseko Designs! My beautiful bag was made by Binika … from beginning to end … she created this beautiful piece.

$79.99

This Jute Ring Handle Tote is perfect for all your summer essentials. The jute and cotton are locally sourced from our partners in India and are handcrafted with sustainability in mind.

• 13" (H) x 16" (W) x 5" (D)

• Cotton, Jute & Wood Lined with Internal Pockets and Top Zipper Closure 4 1⁄2" Inner Ring Diameter

• Made in India

What’s in your Summer Bag?

Due to the COVID-craziness, I’ve been working remotely. On the days I go into a courtroom to support my judge directly, I am toting my necessities from home. Additionally, when I’m moving my remote office to other locations, it’s nice to be able to carry them all in style. You could say this is my “Apple Picking Basket” (MacBook, iPad Pro, iPhone, AirPods … lol)

• Sseko Zippered Wallet

• MacBook

• iPad Pro

• iPhone

• Airpods

• Sseko Zippered Medium Moon bag (lipstick, chapstick, apple cords, pen, hand sanitizer, business cards, etc)

When our Stay-at-Home order relaxes and we return to regular outings my bag contents will take a turn …

• iPhone

• Sunscreen

• water bottle

• Sseko Zippered Wallet

• Airpods

• iPad Pro (downloaded books in the sunshine)

• Readers (for reading books … because blind!)

• Sseko Zippered Medium Moon bag (for all small catch all things)

• Keys to our vacation home

• Sunglasses

What would you carry in your new Sseko Jute bag?

Paper Bead artistry

Single strand paper bead bracelet in rainbow

Looking for a fun summer everyday bracelet? This lovely goes just perfectly with my Mexican bracelets for everyday.

$19.99

The colors of our Single Strand Bracelet in Rainbow are bright, celebratory, and joyful. The mix of yellows, teals, and pinks create a modern twist on a classic Ugandan paper bead. This handcrafted statement piece will brighten any outfit in all the best ways. 

• Paper Beads + Elastic

• 2 1⁄2" Inner Diameter

• Made in Uganda

… and if you think this is cool, you should check out the earrings and necklace! The earrings are now a new favorite everyday piece for me. Delicate and trendy.

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Enjoy our beautiful summer day wherever you are. Stay healthy, follow all the COVID Stay at Home requirements and I hope to see you again very soon.

Love,

Gabby

Who made your bag?

Meet Aidah (āidäh)

Aidah is from Kampala and joined us on August 23rd, 2018. Since then, she has been thriving in our sewing department making our Market Totes and apparel. Aidah first heard about Sseko through Joyce, who is another Veteran on our team. When she is not at the workshop, she loves to dance to Gospel music and spending time caring for young children in her community. Her dream is to live in a beautiful house of her own someday with a family.

A friend asked about my circle purse the other day. She asked if it was a Dooney … happily I said “no, it’s better! A lovely young woman in Uganda made my purse and I am supporting her efforts to live a live of purpose, safety and security.” Each item made for Sseko helps women in West Africa attend university or earn a living wage for their families. We protect our ladies from harm and sickness and give them options. Does your Dooney do that?

FYI: She ordered the Oiled Black Vintage Satchel that same day. ;-)

A Sorjourner’s journey - Launch your journey August 1st

Sseko Designs Fall/Winter 2019

A Sorjourner’s Collection

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Introducing Sseko Designs

Fall/Winter 2019 Collection

For The FW19 Sojourner’s Collection, we traveled the world in search of the most stunning materials and the most beautiful stories. We even journeyed all the way to Italy to capture it all in the most magical golden hour light in the hills of Tuscany. This collection is a celebration of travel. We designed incredibly versatile pieces out of travel-friendly materials that can take you across the world, from season to season and from day to night. From the coziest multiway sweater that transforms from a cardigan to a chic cowl neck tunic to the stunning woven Cena textile you’ll find on bags as well as our first ever coat, we can’t wait for you to experience the richness and versatility of this collection for yourself.

And while no one loves a globe-trotting adventure more than we do, The Sojourner’s Collection is not only a celebration of travel but also a celebration of your journey within. We were born into the world with a sense of curiosity. We asked questions without shame and were delighted by new discoveries. We took joy in small delights and felt deeply, without fear of what others would think. Perhaps the real journey is less about striving to become but more about the journey back home to yourself. We refuse to be labeled or named. Instead, we live fully into every corner of ourselves, embracing the complexity and nuance. We are dreamers and doers. Women of peace and passion. We care about style and stories. We love others by loving ourselves and bring one another into community by doing the hard work of understanding that we belong.

This collection is meant to encourage and inspire you on perhaps the greatest and most courageous adventure of all: The journey within, to know yourself and then courageously share that light with the world. Out of darkness and into sisterhood because the journey is made better together.

The Sojourner Collection

Color Theory

Oiled Olive

The smooth and sophisticated olive leather will elevate your wardrobe with a unique but seasonless neutral. Olive has long been the symbol of peace. This season we are celebrating the ability to be at peace with oneself: embracing a deep acceptance of who you are, so that you can be an agent of acceptance to others.

Pebbled Amore

The bold and stunning Pebbled Amore will add a flash of classic and oh-so-statement color to your wardrobe this season. The richness and depth of this color makes it a perfect choice for Fall and is bright and bold enough to transition right into the warmer months. A courageous willingness to stand up for what is good and true and right and to not apologize for dreaming big for you and your sisters everywhere.

Cena

We have 3 new prints this season and one of them is this beautiful Cena fabric, hand woven by our artisans. My Cena market tote will be arriving tomorrow but this coat is absolutely beautiful. It is soft and supple and I’ve seen photos of Sseko sisters pushing up the sleeves, so it’s not stiff. This is perfect for our Seattle weather. Worn as a blazer in the office or over a sweater for outer wear. Sseko Designs and our sisters in Uganda have hit our latest fabrics and designs out of the ballpark!

Beginner’s Pluck

There's no lack of people out there telling you to find your passion and dream big. But why does it seem like when we try, we so often end up more lost and overwhelmed than when we started?

Liz Forkin Bohannon wants you to rethink everything you've been told about finding your passion and following your dreams. Why? Hate to break it to you, but you're likely never going to "find your passion." Because your passion and purpose are something you build--actively--day by day. In her signature tell-it-like-it-is fashion, Liz shares 14 actionable principles that will teach you how to do just that. With total transparency, Liz shares hilarious and heartbreaking stories of her journey of screwups and successes that illustrate the mindsets and principles that will give you a jolt of energy, inspiration, and direction toward your True North. By embracing your Inner Beginner, dreaming small, choosing curiosity over criticism, and so much more, Liz's story and the principles of Beginner's Pluck will have you on your way to building a life of purpose, passion, and lasting impact.

Liz inspires me and is really hilarous! Like that unfiltered best friend who leads you on exciting adventures and who is living that large life that I’ve always dreamed of. Liz’ book will be for sale starting August 1st in my Sseko Boutique page. Pick one up for your next lazy afternoon reading …I’ll have mine for my Cabo vacation!

THE SSEKO FELLOWS PROGRAM

USING FASHION TO CREATE OPPORTUNITY & COMMUNITY FOR WOMEN GLOBALLY.

As a Sseko Fellow, you become a representative of Sseko in your community. By sharing the Sseko story with your community and selling Sseko products through trunk shows as well as online, you’ll become an integral part of creating educational opportunity for academically gifted women in Uganda. From the in’s and out’s of impact entrepreneurship, to running an actual small business, to marketing and product development, as a Sseko Fellow, you’ll have the opportunity to learn it all. Oh! And you’ll also make money, earn free and discounted products and have a chance to participate in things like trips to Uganda and annual Sseko Fellow gatherings.

The Sseko Guarantee: Create an impact, find community, and make a profit in your first year

or we will buy back your starter kit.*

“My Sojourner Prebook pieces will be arriving tomorrow ... watch for the unboxing photos by Friday!”

— Gabby Jacobsen

Sseko Birthday - EPIC DAY 4

It’s an Epic day!

Get ready for bags, purses, wallets and travel bags!

This is the day you’ve all been waiting for … it’s the day for bags and totes! Beautiful handmade leather products from artisan women in Uganda and Ethiopia. These aren’t even items going permanently away with the upcoming season, but standard pieces of our regular line AND our best sellers!

Please note these will go on sale TONIGHT at midnight and run 24-hours. At 12:01am Monday morning, the sale will be over and the next one begins.

So rumor has it the Sheba, Convertible Tote, Cross body bags, Eden Backpack, Carryall Travel Bag, Saddle Crossbody … and many many more! I mean really, the Carryall is regularly $349 … tomorrow it could be 35% off a huge leather weekend bag! And let me tell you, my husband LOVES his weekender. It’s like walking through the airport like one of those uber-trendy jetsetters.

If you picked up the Sheba in black during the holiday sale, then perhaps you want to grab the Sheba in Oiled Cognac? It’s such a great time to buy yourself a little something new.

All of Sseko Designs are from small batch production and intentional practices. These sales don’t come along often, and for good reason. Sseko Designs is bringing good jobs and safety to women and their families.

Grab the deals while you can!

It's a GREAT month for a sale ... apparently!

Time’s Running Out

On 2 of the best sales of 2019

I wouldn’t normally hit this 2 for 1 on my social media … but I’ve been pretty busy and so here it goes.

Both Sseko & Chloe + Isabel are having sales!!

Two of the loves of my life have been put on the back burner for awhile, but that doesn’t make them any less amazing.

Chloe + Isabel is having it’s Semi-Annual sale until Saturday, January 12th. Up to 75% off some of some gorgeous styles from the last few years. These are not pieces that are going out of stock, but clearing out warehouse space for new spring styles.

I’ve always said that C+I is home to some of the most gorgeous designs backed by amazing quality and lifetime warranty. I still wear mine daily … you can be assured that each piece is heirloom quality and you won’t be sorry (especially at 75% off!)

Sseko is the latest love of my life and the Sseko Ssisterhood grabbed my attention with it’s story and handmade goods. I never leave home without a Sseko purse - and am holding my breath for all the new beautiful spring collection pieces I’ve pre-ordered. But, the Fall/Winter pieces are calling my name! I can’t believe there are so many gorgeous designs left in our warehouse - because with Sseko - often times when inventory is gone - it’s gone!

I actually can’t believe that the Eden Backpack is on sale! That baby is only $162! That’s incredible since it retails for $250! This is a HUGE fine leather backpack, pretty much good for any occasion. Made with so much love by artisans in Ethiopia. My favorite Sheba Purse is also on sale … the last time it was on sale I easily sold 5 of them! Everyone loves them - I carry mine daily.

Can we talk about the clothing for a bit - I never in a million years thought I’d wear a Kaftan but I have jumped in that pool with both feet! This is a beautiful dress that I have worn like crazy since I took a chance.

• Summer with sandals - check!

• Summer with wedges - check!

• Wedding - check!

• Swimsuit cover up - check!

• Lounging around the house - check!

• BBQ - check!

• Church - check!

• Movies - check!

• Shopping - check!

• Flight - check! (can you imagine showing up for your next flight ready for the upgrade to 1st class looking fully put together in a beautifully comfortable dress?)

So pretty much this dress can go anywhere. Now currently available in the Monet and the Dandelion prints on sale.

I want to talk about 1 more piece - the reversible longer blazer in black/dandelion print. It’s worth checking out and adding to your spring/summer/fall/winter wardrobe. Great for travel and I could easily see this being worn with shorts or skirts or pants or a dress for any occasion. Perfect for office or a night out with the girls … on sale now while supplies last!

Start Shopping Today!!

Big Birthday Sale - and Mystery Hostess

It's time for a big Birthday Sale!

... and earn Mystery Hostess credits!

What better time to be introduced to Sseko then during the biggest annual sale of the year! In honor of this event, I'm hosting a Mystery Hostess event and here's how you can earn entries into the Grand Prize giveaway!

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GRAND PRIZE:

ALL CREDITS FROM THE MYSTERY TRUNK SHOW UP TO $500!!

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A new group of favorite items will go on sale each morning - and I’ll make the announcement early in the morning. They will be at deep reductions AND will go quickly as our Spring/Summer inventory is fading away. You’ll want to do some pre-shopping to get items on your Wish List and set your budget. Then watch for my daily posts and check out (maybe on the train to work or while drinking your morning coffee). There will be 7 days of sales starting on July 12th. 

I’ll add another 1 pt to your entries if you email or text me your Wish List so I can keep an eye out for sale items - you may even get a text before the sale opens so you’ll be prepared!! (Hint hint)

Here’s how to win the whole kitten-caboodle :

1 pt - share, tag AND comment this Blog post to your own Facebook page

2 pts - during the above shared post, list your favorite Sseko product

3 pts - refer a friend who places any size order

4 pts - make a purchase of less than $50

5 pts - make a purchase of less than $100

6 pts - host a Facebook event (1 hour online) between July 12-18 with at least 3 purchases

7 pts - book a Home Trunk Show between July 12th - August 31st (credits will be awarded following your event, or 3 early purchases)

I have plans for a Grand Open House in August, but I will be hosting a quick Open House this Saturday morning, July 14th from 10am - noon, in my home. This will allow you to see, touch and try out products you've been seeing online. I will be able to provide additional information on products I do not have. RSVP is mandatory, please let me know by Friday at noon.

How about some mimosas and cupcakes to celebrate Sseko's birthday?

Grab a little girl time before your family activities ramp up for the weekend.

Riverfest is here!

It’s overwhelming to own a vacation home, and the past 3 weeks I’ve been more in Eastern Washington than on the West Side! My family (and my daughters friends) have been looking forward to the Riverfest celebration for months. Boating exhibitions, water skiing/wakeboarding competitions, vendors and lots of people celebrating the start of summer. My daughter has 5 friends joining her, my brother and sister-in-law are swinging by this afternoon on their way home from Idaho and more friends joining us on Saturday afternoon. So much fun and right in our element! We love lots of people around (glad we bought the extra beer!)

I reached Senior Fellow in my Sseko business last month and I’m happy to be a vendor on Saturday at the Riverfest event. What better way to introduce these beautiful sandals to people hanging out in the sunshine! I’ve spent the last 2 weeks bringing over my outdoor vendor supplies and I’m setting up tomorrow morning at 8am. Thankfully I have a awning and a small cooler for drinks. 

Now that all my graduations and parties are complete (with the exception of my older daughter’s 21st birthday on Tuesday) I can totally focus on my Sseko Story and start booking trunk shows. Are you ready for your friends to be introduced to these beautiful products? 

I will be gifting a Moon Clutch to anyone who books with me in July ... and for anyone who makes a purchase in July will be entered to win a $50 Sseko gift card! And because we have a little over a week left in June, I’ll raffle off a $25 Sseko gift card to use on whatever is on your wish list when you make a purchase.

I’m going to sign off for now and check back with you guys next week ... enjoying Crescent Bar life with my family and friends!!

Much love,

Gabby