When I got an email from Megs a few weeks ago inviting me to an event with Tory Burch (yes, THE Tory Burch) I immediately accepted. Now, I had no idea what to expect, as I’ve never been to such an intimate event, let alone a “Blogger Breakfast,” as fellow bloggers affectionately referred to the genre of event. But I was nevertheless excited, especially since I had just purchased a pair of Tory Burch Wedges and I now had the perfect place to wear them.

When I got to the event at the TB boutique in the Meatpacking District, it was awesome to chat with other bloggers, and I also bonded with the TB Marketing intern over how much we adored the Nashe Messenger Bag. We’re both really into versatility at the moment, and you can wear this as a large clutch, a folded-over minimessenger, or an unfolded large messenger. If you’re as much a fan as we are, you can pick it up via ShopBop$395.

The highlight of the event came when Tory Burch arrived (wearing the Nashe Messenger bag, can you believe it!?) and hobnobbed with all of us bloggers. She pointed out her favorite pieces from the Summer and Pre-Fall collections, and shared her inspirations and plans for the future. Luckily for us, she has plans to focus on her handbag line next! She also mentioned a handbag that was in the works that sounded quite intriguing: a faux lizard skin clutch block-printed with a batik pattern. She said that her biggest challenge was how to incorporate prints, which are such a large part of the line, into handbags, but this lizard bag just goes to show how much innovation is possible. I’m excited to see where this develops…

As for Tory’s fave pieces from the collection, which I’m sure you are curious about, she pinpointed three bags that she loved. The first was the navy-trimmed canvas Initial Tote (we’ll update you once it becomes available online), which is embossed with her father’s family emblem, which has been remodeled as a new emblem for her line.

The next was this nautical-inspired Bright Stitched Tote and matching Stitched Clutch, which she said she loves using for travel- the clutch carrying essentials like wallet and passport. Finally, she likes the Scarab Resin Clutch (it’s not available yet, but it’s similar to the Hadley Resin Clutch). The downside to this clutch is that it’s pretty heavy for a clutch, but in its defense, it’s not an unexpected heft because it does look heavy with all those beetles on the front (which I mistook for golden eggs… no comment).

Lastly, Tory talked about her inspirations and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that she draws inspiration from her travels. Usually, each collection is inspired by a particular trip- for example, her Summer collection draws from her trip to Dubai, and her Pre-Fall collection from a visit to Venice. I love to travel, so this in particular hit home for me- but it was, admittedly, pretty cool (okay, super exciting) when Tory complimented my charm bracelet, where I add different charms for different places I travel. So if you travel or not, Tory Burch is a great way to add some worldliness to your wardrobe. And I can’t wait to see how she incorporates some of that global worldview into her handbag line.

Psssst! More exclusive Tory Burch images to come… stay tuned!

Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to the lovely and gracious Jackie Cawthra of Belen Echandia. Commonly referred to as BE, this brand has a huge following over at the Purse Forum. It comes as no surprise since Jackie is as involved in her line and her supporters as just about any designer I’ve met. Jackie’s constant attention to detail, dedication to her brand, and most admirable, dedication and attention to her supporters has made the brand what it is today. As you read through the interview, I am sure you will see what I mean.

Before you get started, one amazing teaser: starting tomorrow, you can help us design a one-of-a-kind Belen Echandia handbag. That’s right we’re teaming up with Belen Echandia to bring you an exclusive Purse Blog/Purse Forum handbag! AMAZING!!!

Click here to read the interview!

I found myself a little envious of Andrew’s style. He had great jeans, a great button down and of course a fabulous Linea Pelle belt. My favorite part of his look – it seemed effortless. But you know, it is the perfect kind of effortless – everything comes together for a relaxed, approachable and fashionable look. The more I thought about it, I started to realize I shouldn’t have been surprised. I can see that a similar approach is used when crafting all those gorgeous Linea Pelle bags! As the interview began to wrap up I felt like we had more than just a love for Linea Pelle handbags in common. Next time I’m in LA, I’m definitely going to have to stick around longer and hit up a happy hour with the LP crew!
Shop Linea Pelle

What comes to your mind when you think of LA? Celebs? Hot clubs? Posh restaurants? Fashion? Beach? No matter what you think of, what you should add to your list of LA-isms is emerging designers. As I already mentioned, toward the end of last year I had a chance to meet with some amazing LA based designers. And you know what, each one has their own sense of LA, their own sense of fashion yet all seem very LA to me. I was really looking forward to the interview I had scheduled with CC Skye.

I had been following her designs for quite some time and couldn’t wait to meet the designer behind the amazing and cutting edge accessory and handbag brand. I knew the interview would go well because the office was just a 5 minute drive from my hotel in Santa Monica (GORGEOUS!!!). Although navigating through the LA traffic was becoming no big deal, the short drive put my mind at ease.

Any worry I previously had was instantly forgotten about when Jalda opened the door, reached out her hand and welcomed me into her office. As we introduced ourselves and began chatting, I could help but find my eyes wondering around her office/showroom. The space was just like Jalda – fabulous and fresh. Light beamed through the windows and caused the handbags to sparkle. Jalda poured both of us a cappuccino and we got started.

Shop Jalda Handbags

Do you have a Valentine this year, if so, who? Yes, my husband of just over a year, Ben McMills.

What did you get your Valentine? Every year I get myself some fun lingerie but its for him too.

What’s your favorite Valentine’s day memory from childhood? In 6th grade a had an enormous crush on this boy in my class, and was suuuuper excited when he gave me a valentine’s day card and asked me to ‘go steady’!

What non-object gift would be the best Valentine’s Day gift? A romantic weekend away to somewhere WARM w/ my hubby.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Dunno! hope to be surprised!

The best Bryna Nicole bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why? The fuschia or red patent Rosemont clutches from my holiday 08 and fall 08 collections.

Valentine’s Day: Hallmark Holiday or Real deal? In my opinion, any time that makes us stop and take a moment to thank and appreciate those who bring us love and joy in our lives is a worthy event. Therefore whether Valentine’s Day has it’s origins from a saint or from a retailer is meaningless to me. What matters is that it reminds me take one day a year to shower with appreciation and love those who give me their love the other 364 days of the year.

What gift would you love for Valentine’s Day this year? If I could have a Valentine’s wish, I would ask for a little cash windfall to take my husband and kids on a fun family vacation.

Your most memorable Valentine’s Day? I was a really nerdy kid in junior and senior high school and never dated. Beginning in seventh grade, my Dad always had flowers delivered to school for me on Valentine’s Day. It always made me feel so loved and special. My husband, Joe, now does that for our daughters. I love that family tradition.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Micah (13), Reilly (11) and I will accompany our hot date, Daddy Joe, out to dinner here in Charleston to our favorite pizza place, Monza. This year it will be a simple night as I leave early the next day for LA for Oscars week!

The best Mary Norton bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why? The Mollie Orchid Clutch—the flower that will last a lifetime

Is Valentine’s Day celebrated in Colombia, if so how is it similar/different from the US? Valentine’s Day in Colombia is on September 16 and it is actually called the day of Love and Friendship (Dia de Amor y Amistad).

What would be the most romantic Valentine’s Day, from start to finish, for you? Most romantic would definitely be in Marrakesh at the Amanjena Hotel, spending the day getting lost through the streets of the souk and ending with dinner at Le Yacout restaurant.

What is the best Valentine’s Day gift you have received? Best Valentine’s gift I ever received is definitely a Buccellati diamond cuff.

Are you a romantic? I am a romantic…

Your favorite romantic meal? Favorite romantic meal depends with who?

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: I like to be surprised for Valentines day plans.

The best Nancy Gonzalez bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: Best Nancy Gonzalez bag for a Valentine’s day gift is a small, soft, pouch clutch in colorful crocodile skin. It’s like candy but much better

In – what I believe to be – the final episode of this year’s Spreading The Love segment, the two gentlemen from Lambertson Truex, namely Richard and John, took a minute to share their thoughts on this year’s V-Day. Enjoy!

Your best Valentine’s Day memory: In grade school, the entire class would exchange cards…I think it is so sweet.

Your worst Valentine’s Day memory: Receiving a box a chocolate that was the shape of a heart. If I see a heart shaped box coming my way….I run!

Do you buy Valentine’s Day cards or hand-make them? As a kid, I always made. To this day, I hand-make. It is so much more personal.

What is the craziest thing you have seen happen on Valentine’s Day: An entire restaurant of people just staring into each other’s eyes….it was a little surreal.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: This year, we are going to Palm Beach for a little sun and relaxation!

The best Lambertson Truex bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: Any gift is special….as long as it is not chocolate!

The pictured Lambertson Truex Nikki Clutch in Coral Snakeskin ($1895) is available through Lambertson Truex boutiques – call 1.888.800.0970 for store info.

Do you have any Valentine’s Day traditions? Usually I celebrate with my husband. He always has a beautiful giant bouquet of flowers for me to wake up to, followed by breakfast in bed, and finished with a lovely late lunch date with a glass of champagne to celebrate!

If you could celebrate Valentine’s Day in any city, where would it be and why? Paris – of course! – It is the city of love and has the perfect romantic back drop.

The perfect bottle of wine for Valentine’s Day… A wonderful Brunello di Montalcino.

The most romantic restaurant for Valentine’s Day is… La Grenouille on the Upper East Side for its fantastic french food, delicious fine wine, and enchanting atmosphere. They also add the most beautiful flowers to complement valentines day colors of pinks and reds and deep purples.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: For the first part of the day, I will be working on adding the final touches to my collection for our FW09 ready to wear presentation that takes place on the 18th of February, followed by a charming date at La Grenouille with my husband.

The best Devi Kroell bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: Option 1: Small Envelope in Raspberry not only is the pink toned color perfect for valentines day, and it is also the perfect sized bag to carry on such a romantic evening with your admirer.

Since you’ve told us before how much you love the beach, have you ever spent a Valentine’s Day on the beach, if so, tell us about it. Yes, good idea! Beach Valentine’s Day! Why haven’t I done that yet? Picnics are the best on the beach- great idea… I’ll forward my boyfriend this article! Even if you’re in cold weather, a surprise picnic on the floor of your house or apartment is super fun too!

What was your favorite Valentine’s Day gift ever? The best vals day gift I have ever received was the very 1st vals day I spent with my current boyfriend of 4 years.. We decided to stay in and he had cooked me lobster with champagne and caviar- my 3 faves.. Then he presented me with a small red basket containing all these little scrolls which he had tied himself with little red ribbons.. In opening one of the scrolls, I discovered that each one contained a memory about the past 6 mos of our relationship.. I was told to open one per day until they all were opened– it took a few months to get thru them all! They were all funny, yet romantic and so thoughtful to say the least.. I think all guys should do that one at least once.

If you didn’t have a significant other, would you spend Valentine’s Day with your friends or alone?If I were single this vals day, I’d probably go to yoga and then dinner with my BFF. We have always find ourselves in the most romantic places together, so this would be no different!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? This year it’s all up to my boyfriend to plan..! I am always the planner in the relationship from my own birthday to every vacation, but this time I’m leaving it up to him..! I told him to be romantic and creative and to surprise me! Everything’s always better when its a surprise!

What is the best CC Skye gift for Valentine’s Day? Why? I think the best CC SKYE valentines day gift this year is our nameplate script LOVE knuckle ring.. Its actually really easy to wear and makes everyone smile.. It may not be a big rock, Girls, but it has the same message, and its more creative!

Happy Valentine’s Day! No matter what your plans are, make sure you spend time with the ones you love. Today we have a few more designers who have taken time to answer Valentine’s Day questions for us. Part owner and Creative Director, Toni Hacker of Hayden Harnett has brilliant answers. This really comes as no surprise, Hayden Harnett is after all brilliant brand!

What is your most memorable Valentine’s Day? The year that Ben whisked me away to Iceland…seriously life changing trip. He knows that I love volcanoes, thermal vents, tiny ponies, and exposed continental plates more than anything.

If you could be anywhere for Valentine’s Day where would it be? Back in the Hotel Borg in Iceland with Ben or at Machu Picchu.

Is dessert a must after a Valentine’s dinner? Not if amour is calling.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Ben and I are going to “Elixir of Love”, an opera presented by the Opera Company of Brooklyn. The opera is staged inside a private residence in Gramercy Park…should be unusual and romantic.

What is the best Hayden Harnett gift for Valentine’s Day? Why? For a guy: our Maldives weekender with a sexy note that a romantic adventure is in store. For the ladies: our Ramone studded cuff in ruby is very romantic in a cool girl way…even comes in a gift box

What is your most memorable Valentine’s Day? The most memorable Valentines day we both can remember is our pre-children days. We took our husbands Chris and Page on an ultra lavish trip to Bali. Where we had candle lit dinners on the shore, Couple massage after a few bottles of wine (which we highly recommend), long days at Kuta beach and we top it off with a romantic stay in the Ubud rainforest.

Valentine’s Day, over-rated, over-hyped, or exactly as it should be and why? We both feel that Valentine’s Day is exactly as it should be as girls NEED to be spoiled by their honey’s!!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Laura and I have dates with the new “loves” of our lives…sheila’s little Joelle ( 3 month) and laura’s little Hawkens (3 months)!!! Our husbands both have special days planned to spoil us!! As it is much needed…..we will keep you posted with the details!!!

What is the best Treesje gift for Valentine’s Day? Why? The best gift for Valentine’s day is the Asher in Fushia and the Hendrix in black shine…. These are laura and I favorite bags of the season. We love the texture of this ultra luxe shined lamb skin. Another bonus of these bags are that they are a perfect combination of casual and edgy bag that can be worn from day to night.

From Be Inthavong, Co-Founder/Designer Be & D

Valentine’s Day, worth the hype or overrated? I think Valentine’s day should be viewed like any other holiday. Do we really need a designated day out of the year to remind us to love our parents, to exchange gifts, to be thankful, and to love? I think any designated day to anything wonderful is worth it!

Your favorite part about Valentine’s Day as a child: I loved buying Valentine’s day cards and passing them out in class. But when I was younger, I had just moved to America and spoke no word of English. I would pass out birthday cards and get well cards to my classmates for Valentine’s Day! I was glad the teacher didn’t call me out on it!

Your favorite part about Valentine’s Day as an adult: I’m such a hopeless romantic sucker. I love to make plans to go out and celebrate. I love dressing up, having dinner at a nice place, having drinks at a cozy bar, and all the romantic things I could think of.

The most romantic Valentine’s Day you have seen, heard about, been a part of: Last Valentine, I came home to my Special Valentine who stayed up all night blowing up tons of balloons and flooded the apartment with them. And then dinner was prepared waiting for us on the rooftop of the apartment. I felt like I was in a chick flick that I was watching! It was amazing!!!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: Honestly, I don’t know! It’s so hard to plan something romantic when you are with one of the most thoughtful and romantic person on earth! I may need help:)

The best Be&D bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: Our glam chic Garbo Shoulder Portfolio Bag!! It can be carried as an oversized clutch or a shoulder bag. It’s offered at a great price for our hand-hammered studed piece that says, “Valentine’s Day Rocking Roll Sexy”.

From Steve Dumain (”D”), Co-Founder/Designer Be & D

Valentine’s Day, worth the hype or overrated? Valentine’s day to me is like fruit cake at a holiday dinner. Whether I like it or not – someone’s gonna be eating it. Sooooo overrated:) but I love to celebrate the history of love whenever I can.

Your favorite part about Valentine’s Day as a child: My Mom made chocolates for both valentines day and Easter. She used to make Dolly Parton chocolate lollipops – and the bosoms were chocolate covered cherries.

Your favorite part about Valentine’s Day as an adult: Sweet tart little heart candies with nice notes on em’!

The most romantic Valentine’s Day you have seen, heard about, been a part of:
Well – since I’m not loony about Valentine’s day – I’ll give you a little list of what I think are some of the most romantic movies of all times. Breakfast at Tiffany’s – you’ll know why; Casablanca – ouch, cry your eyes out; Grease – just see those moves – and for my mom, one of her favorite romantic crying movies of all time was a little secret film called Somewhere in Time, from 1980 – staring Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour. I have to admit – I remember tearing up and hiding it.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year: Chocolate, chocolate, and wine.

The best Be&D bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: I’m not gonna lie, Pink is NOT my favorite color (though I love the right kind of fuchsia or hot pink) – so I would say our new Black Garbo satchel – with gold studs. It’s super soft lambskin and calf, sexy with attitude.

Being from France, are there different traditions when it comes to Valentine’s Day there than here? Valentine’s Day is, universally, about “l’amour” – spending time with the person you love. Traditions are the same in France, and with the French in America! One tradition my husband and I have is to wake up together and have breakfast in bed – we like croissants and fresh-squeezed orange juice, sometimes a mimosa! We also make that day our own; we turn off our Blackberries and just make the day about us.

Do you treat yourself to something special on Valentine’s Day? It’s always nice to indulge on Valentine’s Day! Sometimes my girlfriends and I will go out for lunch or spa treatments, anything that is relaxing and stress-free. I like wine or chocolate, too – even a little makes me feel spoiled.

What is the best way to be pampered on Valentine’s Day? Spa services are the best way. Getting a massage, a manicure or pedicure and a facial are all great ways to relax during the day and get ready for a fun, sexy date at night. Beauty treatments make you feel alluring and glamorous, the way a slinky cocktail dress, soft leather bag, or sky-high stilettos do. That’s the best way to feel for a romantic night out. Or in!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Ask my husband! (Giggles.) Actually, since Valentine’s is on a weekend this year, we’re booking a hotel and spa package, complete with a couples’ massage, dinner, champagne and some rose petals on the bed. We’re both incredibly busy working and it will be great to enjoy that weekend together.

What is the best Gustto gift for Valentine’s Day, why? The gift of her dreams will be a bag that is gorgeous and classic, like Gustto’s Large Parina or Setela in fuchsia, from the Fabulous Classics Collection. Something timeless and beautiful is the best gift, because it’s a surprise that the woman receiving it will wear every day and be reminded of that amazing moment.

Living in Europe, is there something extra special about Valentine’s Day folks here in the states might not be able to experience? An impromptu trip to Paris!

What is the most extravagant Valentine’s Day gift/activity have you ever heard of (be it a personal story, one from a friend or even one you’ve heard about)? Last year an anonymous wealthy businessman pledged to buy his wife two suborbital spaceflights on Virgin Galactic. I don’t know if it was actually true, but if it were it would be the most extravagant, fascinating and exciting Valentine’s Day gift I have ever heard of!

Which is more romantic, Valentine’s Day or an anniversary, why? Although I love being spoiled for both Valentine’s Day and on anniversaries, I actually prefer to be spoiled on any other day of the year “just because”. We are renovating an apartment in Stockholm at the moment and despite running two companies Magnus has spent every spare moment in the last two weeks getting it ready for when I arrive. I find that kind of gesture incredibly romantic, much more so than flowers or chocolates.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? I have absolutely no idea. My fiance is very romantic so every Valentine’s Day is a surprise.

What is the best Belen Echandia gift for Valentine’s Day, why? The best BE gift for Valentine’s Day would be a unique bespoke handbag with a personalized loving message. Which girl doesn’t want the opportunity to customize her own handbag and carry her boyfriend’s loving thoughts around with her all day?

What was your most memorable Valentine’s Day? My husband likes to say that everyday should be Valentine’s Day, not just 1 day of the year. Last year we celebrated with our then 3 year old daughter, who surprised me with a red long stem rose.

What was the best gift you’ve received on Valentine’s Day? Malcolm Betts hammered gold and diamond band, hubby and I went and picked them out for each other at Barney’s.

Chocolate or jewelry? Both:)

Do you have big plans or will you be low key for Valentine’s Day? Low key, always!

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? Just had a baby boy two months ago, we will all hang out together and then if my husband and I are lucky enough to get some time alone this year – relax.

What is the best Botkier bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why? We are all about the sexy day bag. I love our Violet Runway Hobo coming out in February. There is a key charm attached that is a ‘botkier hotel key’…need I say more?

Do you look forward to or dread Valentine’s Day, why? I look forward to it because it is a day where you might possibly get a gift… or at least some chocolate.

What is your favorite Valentine’s Day splurge? Eating nonstop!

If/when you have a significant other, does Valentine’s Day seem more important? Umm hello, yes. Without one I find it a real bore… especially embarrassing having to mail valentines to yourself. Always awkward.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day this year? I’m assuming I’ll be whisked away to a private island where I’ll be spoon-fed chocolate pudding by a team of handsome man servants and massaged vigorously. (Or, maybe my man will take me to dinner.)

What is the best Bird gift for Valentine’s Day, why? A One Night Stand Bag, clearly… hello.

Love/Hate Valentine’s Day: Like- its fun and romantic but sometimes its too blown out of proportion!

Favorite movie to watch on Valentine’s Day: P.S. I love you

Best gift you have given on Valentine’s Day: A guitar to my fiance that me and some friends and family bought

Valentine’s Day plans: Hiding in a dark corner of our favorite restaurant and eating by candlelight

The best Rebecca Minkoff bag for a Valentine’s Day gift, why?: The Valentine’s Day Pouch Set, its a set of 3, is affordable and brightens up winter!

What is your least favorite thing about Valentines Day? I often think about the people who do not have a significant other, and how they would be spending the day. I do feel that it gives everyone the opportunity to reach out to everyone we love, not just our mate. I also do not like all of the commercialization that comes with the Holiday.

What is your dream Valentines Day like? My dream Valentines Day would involve spending a FULL day with my husband. I would plan a schedule of things that we love to do together and make sure we only have time for each other; turn off the outside world for a day!

What would you plan for Valentines Day on a budget?
- I would wake up a little early (usually I do not), place a love note on my husband’s pillow and exchange gifts as soon as we both wake up
- I would serve my husband breakfast in bed, which I typically never do
- Throughout the day I would send him messages of love
- I would buy a bottle of champagne, chocolate and strawberries, although I do not like chocolate so that would only be for him
- I would then cook him dinner at home and spend a romantic evening together

What will you do this year on Valentines Day? Luis and I will be spending the day as I mentioned before, spending the whole day together! We got married in November, so this will be our first official Valentines Day as husband and wife.

The best Adriana Castro Valentines Day Gift? One of the most romantic bags is the Annie Clutch. It is feminine, sexy, sleek and modern. It is also a timeless piece but yet a statement. It is the perfect combination of everything! Like love, it is slightly unpredictable it has a bit more edge than a basic black clutch; it has a style that most women love!