Reader of the Week: Bridget Gillespie

Crafter of the cutest, most eco-friendly wallets you’ll ever stick your dough in

By Kirsten Kilponen
Published: May 11th, 2009 | 8:20am

We all may be strapped for cash these days, but we still need something put a couple bucks in, or at least a place to stick an I.D. or bus card. Furthermore, it would preferably be something that doesn’t cost too much and looks cute. Oh, and something eco-friendly would great, too. You’re probably thinking, “Where in the world could I find such a dream wallet?” The answer to that pertinent problem comes down to one person: Bridget Gillespie. That’s right, this 22-year-old gal from Elmhurst talks about what makes Blush Wallets the best, her wallet-making operations, and lets us in on her favorite flavor of ice-cream.

How were you inspired to start Blush Wallets?

I saw a similar design at a local boutique about 5 years ago that, in my opinion, was too expensive. So being the frugal gal that I am, I decided to go home and make it. Here we are almost six years later…

What makes your wallets better than all the other wallets out there?

Each one is 100% unique and handmade by yours truly. There are definitely no two same designs out there. My wallets are also made out of recyclable material; so not only will you look cool, you’ll be doing your part to be green also.

What are your operations like? Do you have people help you out, or are you a one woman show?

It’s all me, baby. If my A.D.D. doesn’t interfere, it takes me a solid three and a half hours to make one. The layout and design is the hardest part. I am so indecisive!

Do you have a day job? If so, what is it and what is it like?

Yes. Surprisingly, the wallet business isn’t so lucrative (yet). So to pay the bills and such I work as a receptionist part time at a salon in Glen Ellyn, IL called Salon Estēm. I also go to school full time at Columbia College Chicago.

What is your favorite flavor if ice cream and why?

Rainbow sherbet. It’s just so yummy.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grow up and who was your hero?

I always was imaginative and artistic, and knew that I would have a job related to that. I would spend hours picking out the outfits I was going to wear the rest of the week and have been painting/drawing/sketching since I could hold a crayon. I remember in fifth grade designing a line of Halloween costumes. I think I might still have the sketchbook. My hero was Shirley Temple.

Where are your favorite places to eat, have fun, and people watch in Elmhurst?

I try to get down to the city [Chicago] as often as possible. I love finding new re-sale boutiques and craft shops. Renegade Handmade on Division is a new favorite. As far as people watching, I do that just about everywhere, but I get crazy inspired by kids at my school. They’re super cool.

Any last words for our readers?

DIY is the new black.

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