With all the recent talk about tariffs and international production, manufacturing is top of mind for many brands—and for me, it always has been.
At Betta Bag, every piece is fully sourced and manufactured in Italy. And I’m not just talking about attaching a zipper or stitching on a label. From the hardware to the leather, every element is thoughtfully crafted in Italy from start to finish.
So, why Italy?
Sure, Made in Italy sounds luxurious—and it often is. But for me, it’s about more than just optics. Before I get into why I chose this path, I want to be real about the challenges.
Let’s face it: retail is a volume game. Most brands manufacture in places like China because it’s simply cheaper. From a numbers standpoint, it makes sense—low production costs and high margins. Even some of the most iconic luxury brands outsource part of their process to Asia.
And for the average consumer? It’s nearly impossible to tell the difference between a bag stitched in China and one stitched in Italy. The machinery? Comparable. The final product? Hard to tell—especially when viral dupes like the “Walmart Birkin” are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing.
So why not follow the same route?
The short answer: values.
Yes, margins matter. I’m running a business. But Betta Bag was built on something deeper—pride and purpose.
My grandparents immigrated to the U.S. from Italy. While they worked hard to assimilate, they never let go of where they came from. They passed down their values, traditions, and an immense pride in their heritage. Honoring that legacy through Italian craftsmanship isn’t just symbolic—it’s personal.
Sustainability matters, too.
By working closely with my manufacturers, I have full transparency through every stage of the process. I know where our leather is sourced—from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG). I know the working conditions. I know that the artisans are being paid fairly and treated with respect.
I’m proud to be Italian made—and to bring that legacy to life in every stitch.
In a world where mass production often overshadows craftsmanship, choosing to support small businesses like mine helps keep traditional artistry alive. It allows brands with a mission—not just a margin—to grow. And it ensures that the people behind the products, from artisans to entrepreneurs, are seen, valued, and supported.
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