VF x Victoire, the contemporary handbag line I launched and distributed through Free People, originated from a serendipitous conversation that my friend Maggie had with a fashion investor at a book signing I invited her to. I had left the main room for the restroom, and while socializing, Maggie met the fashion investor with whom she discussed my leather business. Upon rejoining her in the “room full of opportunities”, the gentleman was so impressed by what she’d shared about my expertise, I was invited to an all-expense paid trip to India to generate new business and launch my second line of artisan leather bags. Thank God I chose Maggie to join me that evening.