Austin, TX — Texas designers, Julie Thayer and Beth Younger, introduced the first ever collection of their handbag label, JulieBeth, with an exclusive event Thursday, September 27, 2007 at The Belmont in Austin, TX. The event was an inside look into the first offerings from these best-friend designers and also marked the first opportunity to purchase from their collection online at www.julie-beth.com.

“We are so excited to be introducing our brand in Austin,” said Younger.

“Austin really reflects the style and originality we wanted for our bags.”

In addition, a portion of the profits from the first weeks in business will benefit Dress for Success Austin (DFSA), an organization that donates business suits and accessories to low-income women seeking employment.

“We love what Dress for Success Austin does to empower women and we want to support that,” states Younger.

JulieBeth officially came into existence this past January when the designers traveled to New York City. There they selected the finest quality leathers to be used by the best American craftsmen in making their handbags. Both designers collaborate on every detail but share differing viewpoints on style.

“We both have to agree to a concept before we move forward,” says Thayer. “If we are both not behind a concept 100%, then we shelve it for later. We are different people with different tastes, but that’s what makes it so much fun.”

The designers credit the inspiration for their first collection to their Texas roots and a 2005 vacation together through Yellowstone and Teton National Park, Glacier National Park in Montana and the Black Hills of South Dakota.