Four Inane Questions with Meeks Me Smile Studio’s Shawanna Meeks

Photo Courtesy of Shawanna Meeks

Designer Shawanna Meeks doesn’t just make bespoke handbags—she crafts little declarations of joy. Think of them as wearable mood lifters, stitched with purpose, peppered with personality, and fully capable of carrying your entire life (plus snacks).

At Meeks Me Smile Studio, Meeks wants to make you an accessory that makes a statement; an eye-catching, head-turning statement that doubles as a conversation piece.  “My design process is hands-on and heart-led,” she tells us. “Whether it’s your first bag or your fifth, I hope you always feel like it was made just for you.”

What started over a decade ago as a love affair with a sewing machine has turned into a colorful, functional fashion line that proves purses and clutches can be both practical and playful. Each piece is designed, redesigned, and re-redesigned until it hits that sweet spot of structure, sass, and “Where’d you get that?”

Photo Courtesy of Shawanna Meeks

As Meeks is quick to point out, your bag should do more than hold your stuff; it should hold its own.

We caught up with the maker mogul to have her tackle our litany of lame-o questions. We also learned the difference between a satchel, a shoulder bag, and a bucket bag. Bless.

The Pitch: You can choose any celeb to leave your outgoing voicemail message. Who are you choosin’? 

Shawanna Meeks: So, can it be a Disney character? I love Disney’s Hercules, so Meg from Hercules, because I need someone who can deliver sarcasm, confidence, and ‘don’t waste my time’ energy all in one line.

If not, I would choose Tracee Ellis Ross. Her voice has that perfect blend of class, fun, and “don’t play with me.” I know my callers would hang up feeling inspired and smiling.

What song makes you instantly change the channel when it comes on? 

Jax’s “Victoria’s Secret”. Duh. We’ve already exposed that. We get the message, and we’ve moved on.

If you were a precious gem, what precious gem would you be?

I’d be an opal (my birthstone). It’s multi-dimensional, unexpected, and full of color depending on the light. And, just like me, opals are rare and elegant.

Name an appetizer you could eat every day for the rest of your life. 

Spinach and artichoke dip! No question; creamy, cheesy, toasty, and perfect with chips or bread. It’s like a hug for your taste buds. I’d happily build an entire lifestyle around it.