SHARE

Westchester Mom, Daughter Duo Get 'Carried Away' With Tote Business

MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. -- What started as a night out on the town with high heels has turned into a budding business for a Northern Westchester mother and daughter.

Cindy Massari, left, of Katonah, with daughter Laura Massari of Mount Kisco, have teamed together for a book, as well as a tote business.

Cindy Massari, left, of Katonah, with daughter Laura Massari of Mount Kisco, have teamed together for a book, as well as a tote business.

Photo Credit: Submitted
The Flip Flop Bitch bag.

The Flip Flop Bitch bag.

Photo Credit: Submitted

Laura Massari, of Mount Kisco and her mom, Cindy Massari of Katonah, started a tote bag line called The Flip Flop Bitch four years ago after an evening when Cindy -- thinking ahead -- brought along a sparkly tote she had made so she could substitute her high heels for more comfortable shoes once the night had ended and she was headed back to her car.

Switching her shoes on the way to a NYC parking lot and dropping them into her sophisticated looking bag made the transition for her feet (and the ride back home) a lot smoother.

A friend who at that point was walking barefoot on Manhattan's sidewalks, saw Cindy doing this and said jealously, "What are you, a flip flop bitch?' And Cindy replied, 'That's exactly what I am!'"

And so, the name of the business was born. The hobo style bag, which comes in a matching wristlet,  has since been profiled on "The Today Show," and "Rachael Ray." It comes in sparkly versions for parties and vegan leather totes for everyday use.

"Most totes aren't dress or work appropriate," explained Laura. "And most are vinyl or canvas materials. Ours is a whole new genre; plus they're super lightweight."

The two have been so successful that they recently co-authored a book called "Passionistas: Tips, Tales & Tweetables from Women Pursuing Their Dreams." The book is available locally at Little Joe's Books in Katonah.

Laura, a financial advisor, was recently profiled in Daily Voice for her pet portraiture business; her greeting cards are also sold at Little Joe's. Go HERE for earlier story.

Added Laura: "It's been a wild ride so far and we're loving every minute of it!"

to follow Daily Voice Somers and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE