Budding Black-Owned Handbag Brand Grows Sales Beyond $350K

CHARLOTTE, NC — Mr. Sylvia is the name that many call him; however, designer Gregory Sylvia is not a single designer at all. Founded by husband and wife duo, Gregory Sylvia is the brain child of Gregory and Terri “Sylvia” Pope. The Popes officially started sales in 2012 and has experienced a steady growth ever since. After a year and a half, company sales surpassed $350K and the couple has been busy implementing new growth strategies to continue the incline, Gregory and Terri “Sylvia” started their brand as a means to fill a gap that they noticed in the marketplace. After noticing a lack of presence of African Americans producers in the leather goods industry they felt that it could be a place where they could be successful and make an impact. Soon after, the couple went to work on their brand- developing a vision, establishing a brand name, drafting logos, designing products, etc.

The Gregory Sylvia brand focus has been the mid to high end handbag and accessories market with current sales exclusively online.

For the company, there are now plans to embed their brand further and into more markets. In addition to continued expansion initiatives for online growth, the company is also looking to expand its sales channels with offline sales to retail stores and boutiques. As stated by Gregory, “From our start we saw the lack of black-owned producers in this arena and we wanted to bring some diversity… and not just diversity, but excellence along with the diversity.” Terri adds “We also saw us doing this together as a means to encourage people to follow their dreams and bring marriage and family to the forefront.”

Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Gregory Sylvia is a designer brand of leather goods and accessories namely handbags and wallets. Officially starting sales in 2012, Gregory Sylvia products are now featured on the official Gregory Sylvia website as well as 2 e-tail websites. Furthermore, the company has been featured in several blogs and digital lifestyle magazines. The company is dedicated to providing beautifully designed pieces that uphold high standards of quality craftsmanship while providing excellent customer service. For additional information about Gregory Sylvia, call 980-272-8770 or visit www.GregorySylvia.com. •