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Go Forth Goods – Gunnar Duffle, Nuts and Bolts

 

June 13, 2018

GO FORTH GOODS – Gunnar Leather Duffle Bag

…be faithful down to the last stitch, give back, and make a difference.

I’m loving this bag!  By far, this is the biggest leather bag I’ve reviewed and my first true travel bag.  We went camping a few weeks ago and I cannot believe the capacity of this bag.  For a 3 day, 2 night stay, we fit clothes in there for hubby, kiddo and myself.   My husband absolutely adores this bag as it fits well with his tall frame (6’3”) and he’s a huge fan of backpack mode.  I wanted to do this Nuts and Bolts video first so you can appreciate the size and features of this bag.

Stay tuned for my full review as I take it with me on a family road trip up the coast in the next few weeks!  I’ll show you exactly what fits in this bag and how to pack it smart.

If you don’t know Go Forth Goods, get to know them.  They’re not just a bag company, they’re American crafters, good to the last stitch so you know it’s guaranteed for life. If that doesn’t move you, how about this?  They’re giving back 10% to support nonprofits.  Yup, I applaud their commitment to the community and their commitment to American made.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Go Forth Goods Gunnar Duffle Unboxing:  https://goo.gl/wjnVQv
  • Top 3 Travel Bags and Accessories: https://goo.gl/ULoN8z
  • LocTote Original:  https://goo.gl/xZDGa4
  • LocTote Sport vs. Original:  https://goo.gl/fCvLkw

__________________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

__________________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

__________________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

 

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LM Leather Goods – Wentworth Purse Tote Review

Check for it here:  Wentworth Purse Tote

May 10, 2018

LM LEATHER GOODS – Wentworth Purse Tote Review

This bag was unequivocally worth the wait!  It’s simple, but elegant; right sized, but roomy.  It’s your everyday, everything bag.  It fits my laptop and its cord so it can be a work bag; it’s not too big so it can be a lunch bag; it’s squishy and lightweight enough that it’s a great weekend purse.

About the maker…

Three (3) generations deep still making their products in Indiana. Originally a guitar strap maker, their selection has expanded to include a modest selection of women’s bags, men’s bags and leather accessories.   I have their Field Notes case and the leather on that thing is insane…I actually invent reasons to pull it out and write stuff, weird I know.  Tyler, please make a women’s bag (maybe a 10 X 10 size) out of the same leather that your Field Notes is in.  That would be amazing!

About Version 2.0…

This bag is one of the more versatile bags I own!  I have only one wish and that’s swing the pocket and key fob to the other side of the bag.  I realize this means the front of the bag will show the stitching, but I think they can expand the pocket and hide the stitching under the bag handles where they’re affixed to the bag.  No biggie though and don’t let this stop you from buying this beauty. I’m just picky about my pockets!

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • LM Leather Goods Vendue Classic Clutch, Unboxing:  https://goo.gl/cn8ZHb
  • LM Leather Goods Vendue Classic Clutch, Review:  https://goo.gl/LaugG5
  • LM Leather Goods Wentworth Purse Tote, Unboxing:  https://goo.gl/uMpdYv
  • Saddleback Small Tote Review: https://goo.gl/wof77f

_______________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

  • My Amazon Shop:  https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • LM Leather Goods Wentworth Purse Tote:  https://goo.gl/BHaab7
  • LM Leather Goods Vendue Classic Clutch:  https://goo.gl/7NU1Ys
  • Saddleback Small Tote: https://goo.gl/NmsuWb

_______________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

_______________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

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Sandast Battle: James vs. James Petit

 

 

 

May 5, 2018

SANDAST BATTLE – James vs. James Petit

The number one question that I get for the James tote line is – Which bag should I get?  It’s a TOUGH call.  The original is just a sexy, hold everything bag that can be office, weekend getaway, EDC, etc.  The recently released Petit is a sleek, small, sophisticated not-so-little tote.  Frankly, together, they make the the best weekend getaway combo.  Tuck all your clothes and such into the original and bring the Petit with you for a nice dinner, wine tasting and lounging….but, if you must pick, hopefully watching the side by side comparison of these two bags, helps you decide!

About Sandast…

Meeting with Chris Pak was a highlight for me in my search for American crafters.  There’s a genuine spirit, pride and craftsmanship that shines through in each bag.  I’ve had people stop me to ask about my bags.  They’re beautiful, sure, but they’re also superbly crafted and tough.  Chris is doing his thing in a small space out of downtown LA. Check them out when you’re in town…hopefully on Wednesday when they’re doing tastings.  Liquor and leather – – I’m in!

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Sandast Interview, Part I:  https://goo.gl/gspRks
  • Sandast James Petit, Nuts & Bolts:  https://goo.gl/4xdGRn
  • Sandast James Petit (+ Surprise) Unboxing: https://goo.gl/Jxrpwq
  • Top 3 Travel Bags & Accessories:  https://goo.gl/LtQNzn
  • She Travels Playlist:  https://goo.gl/M4qSmK

_______________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

_______________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

_______________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

 

Posted on

Go Forth Goods – Gunnar Duffle, Unboxing

 

 

 

April 23, 2018

GO FORTH GOODS – Gunnar Leather Duffle Bag

“…be faithful down to the last stitch, to give back, and make a difference.”

I’m inspired by the Go Forth Goods – to inspire others to do good. I’m glad to shine a light on their positivity, their American made commitment and their choice to give back to the community.  10% of all their profits go to support their chosen charity. They’re a small team of five in Georgia, getting it done, handmade and guaranteed for life.

As you know, I’ve searched long and hard for the right military style duffle bag to review. This one caught my eye for a few reasons and I can’t wait to test drive it. Road trip, anyone?

On the mechanics of this bag…everything metal is solid brass, there’s a double handle top carry, a zipper option and a backpack option.   There’s just a pride of craftsmanship that shines through on this bag. This is the first bag Nathan created.  After seeing it first hand, I understand why Go Forth Goods took flight.  Watch Nathan talk about his baby here.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Top 3 Travel Bags and Accessories: https://goo.gl/ULoN8z
  • LocTote Original:  https://goo.gl/xZDGa4
  • LocTote Sport vs. Original:  https://goo.gl/fCvLkw

__________________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

__________________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

__________________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

 

 

Posted on

Sandast James Tote Original – Nuts & Bolts

 

 

SANDAST –  James Tote Original , Nuts & Bolts

 

It’s here…the bestselling Sandast tote – the James Original!  This is easily one of the most versatile bags I’ve owned:  its work appropriate, weekend appropriate, a diaper bag, a getaway bag, an overnight bag, a sexy carry on and just an all-around bad ass.  If you’re wondering if this bag is for you, hopefully these detailed measurements help you decide.  If you have any questions about what fits, please comment below.  Stay tuned for the bag battle (James vs. James Petit) and the full review of this beauty!

Thanks for watching!

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Sandast Interview, Part I:  https://goo.gl/gspRks
  • Sandast James Petit, Nuts & Bolts:  https://goo.gl/4xdGRn
  • Sandast James Petit (+ Surprise) Unboxing: https://goo.gl/Jxrpwq
  • Top 3 Travel Bags & Accessories:  https://goo.gl/LtQNzn
  • She Travels Playlist:  https://goo.gl/M4qSmK

_______________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

_______________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

_______________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on

SANDAST – James Petite, Nuts & Bolts

 

 

SANDAST –  James Petit , Nuts & Bolts

This bag is beautiful, absolutely stunning.  I’ve been having a ball cruising around with the bag.  It just hits all the marks for a comfortable, sophisticated carry.  I’ve gotten lots of questions about the measurements and the features so I made this video to address those questions.  Hope you get a better sense of the bag after watching!  Stay tuned for the full review.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Sandast Interview, Behind the Scenes:  https://goo.gl/MoC1xs *Watch my simple wallet get engraved”
  • Sandast Interview, Part I:  https://goo.gl/gspRks
  • Arista Winery Interview:  https://goo.gl/eSQiNL
  • Top 3 Travel Bags & Accessories:  https://goo.gl/LtQNzn
  • She Travels Playlist:  https://goo.gl/M4qSmK

__________________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

__________________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

__________________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

 

 

Posted on

Duvall Leatherwork – Small Shoulder Bag: Nuts and Bolts

 

DUVALL LEATHERWORK

Small Leather Shoulder Bag, Red Brown

I get a LOT of questions about bag measurements.  What can I say?  We are a detail oriented bunch.  We don’t just want to know IF there’s a pocket, we want to know if it’s an open pocket, divided pocket, hanging pocket, anchored pocket….well, here you go!  Here’s the nuts and bolts of the Duvall Leatherwork Small Shoulder Bag.  Please note the measurements are approximate!  A few comments about how I measure below.  Stay tuned for the full review coming soon!

POCKETS – I measure the exterior of the pocket and then subtract ½” to account for the fact that the actual pocket is slightly smaller on the interior.  The height of the zippered pocket is measured only up to the height of the zipper, but in theory, you could put something in there a bit taller because the zipper is not at the very top.

KEY FOB – This is measured from AFTER the rivet where it’s affixed to the bag since that is the portion that is moveable.

Need I say more?

How ‘bout just one more thing?

Proudly crafted in Kingston, Pennsylvania. Cheers to American Crafters!

 

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Duvall Leatherwork Small Shoulder Bag Review:  COMING SOON!
  • Duvall Leatherwork Small  Shoulder Bag Unboxing:  https://goo.gl/ZATFxp
  • Hand and Hide Large Tote Review: https://goo.gl/1iJAdZ
  •      For 10% off, enter SONIASENTME
  • Saddleback Small Tote:  https://goo.gl/xv3VYa
  • Love 41 Simple Tote:  https://goo.gl/Fr8BGm

__________________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

__________________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

__________________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  Some links above are affiliate links.

Posted on

Sandast Interviews – 4 Part Series + Wine Intro

 

SANDAST INTERVIEW – Wine Teaser

If you’re not having fun, you’re doing something wrong!  What a fun afternoon sitting down with Mr. Sandast himself – – wine, chocolate, cheese, coffee and leather, all my favorite things!  You know it’s going to be a good interview when you can’t stop laughing long enough to even get started. It’s gonna take a while to edit this goodness, but here’s a bit of silliness to tide you over.

 

 

SANDAST INTERVIEW I – Honey, we gotta sell the house…

I love that life is this hilarious mix of going for broke, failing, succeeding and then starting all over again.  Where would you be if you never quit that job, moved to that new city or went back to school?  In Chris’ case, would Sandast exist if he never sold his house?

I feel like the highlight reel of your life is those times that you pushed your chips to the center and went all in.  It’s not all the successes, but the times you went for it. It’s an honor to share the true story of Sandast, not just the legacy of their product, but their trials and their struggles before the rebirth.  I hope you enjoy watching his story as much I did.

SANDAST INTERVIEW II – He who wishes to the move the mountain…

Life is overwhelming.  Thinking about the steps it would take to be where we want to be is enough to make your head spin so I love the idea that Chris has a mantra that gets him through the minutiae.  It’s simple, but perfect and he engraved it on his bag as a permanent reminder.

This is life.  Complicated and overwhelming, but simple and beautiful in this weird way.  It’s not the big steps he took.  It’s not that Blake Lively commissioned a bag (she did). It’s not the Johnny Depp loves Sandast (he does).  It’s that Chris comes to the studio day in and day out and life has a way of working out for people that work for it.

SANDAST INTERVIEW III – From that point on, I never looked back…

Chris is a painter.  His artwork is displayed prominently as the backdrop of his humble studio and sales floor.  As you enter, there is a painting on the left that is this brilliant mix of red and yellows.  In the years before, it was a somber mix of grays that gradually gave way to what you see today.  Chris painted over it. Then he painted over it.  Then he painted over it.  To me, this mural is his phoenix rising…we are all changing, struggling, doing over and beginning again.  Some people stop at the gray.  It’s easy to do. Life is this impossible mix of struggles some days, but I see his spirit and I’m inspired.

If you’re in the gray, keep going.  Add just a little bit of red.  Commit to doing the same tomorrow.  Be just a little better than you were.  Life is a process.

SANDAST INTERVIEW IV – We’re just getting started…

Truer words were never spoken.  I look forward to the evolution of Sandast. He’s got his feet under him and he’s off to the races.

It’s beautiful to see something come together in the way that Sandast has after years of struggle and self-doubt and the thoughts that plague us.  The Sandast legacy is a testimony to hard work and persevering when you aren’t sure of the outcome.  Chris, you’re an inspiration.  After the success of Sandast, you’re still you; you’re still relatable and you’re funny as all get out.  Thanks for an afternoon of laughs and time well spent.  I’ll drink to that.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Arista Winery Interview:  https://goo.gl/eSQiNL
  • Day in the Life of Colonel Littleton: https://goo.gl/EL26J9
  • Top 3 Travel Bags & Accessories:  https://goo.gl/LtQNzn
  • She Travels Playlist:  https://goo.gl/M4qSmK

_______________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

  • Sandast:  https://www.sandast.com/shop/

_______________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

_______________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is not a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

Posted on

Beaudin – Convertible Backpack, Unboxing

 

BEAUDIN – Convertible Backpack, Unboxing

I’m loving this little backpack / tote!  It’s my go-to weekend bag for when I’m going to be out and about for a long time.  It’s really lightweight so I take it if I’m taking kiddo to the park, her swim lesson or going for a picnic.  I usually stuff it with my skinny wallet (essentials), fat wallet (non-essentials), sunglasses, keys, phone, phone charger, keys and I can even stuff my favorite hooded Columbia fleece in there. I keep my phone in the outer pocket and I love that the bag zips and the pocket closes so I don’t worry even when I’m carrying it in backpack mode.   Plus since it’s fully secure, I can toss it in the backseat without my stuff flying everywhere.  This is one of the few bags I have that closes securely so I’m really loving that zipper. Plus, the tassel detail on the zipper makes closing / opening very easy.

I wanted to know more about Beaudin so I asked one half of the mom/daughter duo to share more with me and here’s what I found:

  • Leather – USA made top grain.  I love that this bag is truly an American piece – – the leather, the design and the production are all American.
  • Cowhide – They use a premium cowhide with an acid wash finish. If you watch my video, you’ll see what this means.  It’s got this gorgeous shimmery light brown / gold and where the acid washes off the hair, this silver metallic shines through.  I love that the pocket is sort of this wild contrast, but the rest of the bag is a soft black.  It’s just enough interest without being over the top.
  • I also just wanted to know more about Beaudin – how they came to be, what drives them and the charities that they choose to support.  I feel good about supporting their mission and giving back to their commitment to be truly an American made product.  Here  is that detail in their own words:
We are a mother & daughter team who’s passions for freedom and fashion collided. What started as a business to create what we love has now become a way to show love. We do this by teaching others how to make beautiful things and a beautiful life. We put all we had into making products we would want to buy ourselves and began to grow. It came time that we could no longer be the only makers. We decided to follow our hearts and train and hire ladies who have overcome difficult situations. Every product represents freedom from adversity. While helping to provide freedom to those still enslaved. A portion of our sales goes to liberate those in sex slavery. Each Beaudin accessory is a PRODUCT with PURPOSE.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • LocTote FlackSak Backpack – https://goo.gl/T8ecwF
  • LocTote Sport Backpack, Unboxing – https://goo.gl/xt1YmU
  • Love 41 City Backpack – https://goo.gl/XTZUGq
  • Love 41 Wanderers Backpack – https://goo.gl/ZEMM5s

_______________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

_______________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

_______________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.

 

 

Posted on

Portland Leather Dakota Medium Crossbody

Check for it here:  Portland Leather Dakota Medium Crossbody

PORTLAND LEATHER GOODS – Dakota Medium Crossbody

This is my first experience with Portland Leather Goods and I have to say, I’m pretty impressed! The thickness of the leather and the quality of the construction are incredible.  I would never guess you could get this quality for this price.  This is the best value I’ve seen in full grain leather.  It’s also very thoughtfully packaged inside and out and, you know, I love me some good packaging.

This bag fulfills a hole in my weekend bag arsenal – – the elusive large small bag. I have plenty of small smalls and even medium smalls, but this is a legit large small that’s distinctly weekend (not professional).  I can’t wait to use it and do the full review.  I’ve already got a handful of 2.0 suggestions.  BTW, if you order this bag and you’re short, ask them to punch some extra holes in the strap.  It’s really long, even though I got the short strap.

Stay tuned for my full review!  I’ll take detailed bag measurements and show you what fits.

RELATED VIDEOS:

  • Beaudin Designs Convertible Backpack Unboxing:  https://goo.gl/Ktsrfu
  • Love 41 Large Duffle:  https://goo.gl/pG5wQa
  • Saddleback Small Tote Review: https://goo.gl/wof77f
  • LocTote Bag Battle:  https://goo.gl/Gi3kS3

__________________________________________________________________

BUY IT HERE:

__________________________________________________________________

  • MY AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/shop/SoniaShepherd
  • MY WEBSITE: https://www.justalittlereview.com
  • MY INSTAGRAM: @justalittlereviewforyou
  • MY CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/c/soniashepherd
  • MY FACEBOOK:  fb.me/justalittlereview

__________________________________________________________________

FTC Disclaimer – This is not a sponsored post.  All opinions are 100% my own.  Some links provided above are affiliate links.