"It's a place that handbag lovers like myself can go for hard-to-find designs and colors to add to their wardrobe," Valentine said. "Our mission is to help women add color and character to their wardrobes through accessorizing with a beautiful handbag or clutch."

Though Valentine had always wanted to start a business, she wasn't sure what kind.

"I definitely wanted to do something that I was interested in and passionate about," she said. "I believe you must be vested in your business, meaning it shouldn't be all about making money but something you absolutely love to do."

Candy Coated Bags was born due to the fact that Valentine's personal handbag collection is very unique and colorful. Purchasing handbags is like retail therapy for her, and she loves finding interesting pieces that make people take notice.

"Friends and family would always ask to borrow my purses to go with whatever outfit because they knew I would have the right one to match," she said. "I started hosting parties for [my] family to showcase, sell my finds and make extra money. It was such a hit [that] I decided to turn my passion and hobby into a business."

These fashionable and affordable handbags are acquired from wholesalers, consignment shops and local boutiques. And starting Fall 2010, the company will begin offering vintage items.

In addition to selling handbags and clutches, Candy Coated Bags also offers retail therapy for women looking to throw all of her cares into a fabulous, colorful or one of a kind handbag.

"I stress color because I believe in color therapy in which certain colors can affect our moods, emotions and possibly even our health," Valentine said. "When my customers buy one of my handbags, I send with it a little information about color and the many different benefits of adding color to their wardrobes."

When carrying a candy coated bag, Valentine wants to delight the taste of women and satisfy their wallets at the same time.

"I want women to feel confident, empowered and ready to take on the day's issues when they carry one of my handbags," she said. "I want them to know they can buy quality and fashionable handbags and not sacrifice a paycheck to do so." 

To purchase a handbag or clutch, visit the website, www.candycoatedbags.com. For more information, contact Valentine at (716) 228.5272 or via email at candycoatedbags@gmail.com.

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