We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharlena Bernard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharlena, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The SOUS SUS brand was established in 2004. The name SOUS SUS derived from my foundation in dance. In the language of ballet “sous-sus” means to rise up onto the pointes of your toes, while placing one foot in front of the other. With the same spirit, I want people to feel elevated when wearing my brand. I want them to understand that life is truly about moving in an upward direction, while placing one foot in front of the other.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
God gave me a strong vision of SOUS SUS and I ran with it. I was fortunate enough to have met a handbag designer through my sister and she was kind enough to extend a few contacts and from those contacts, I was able to continue expanding my network.

During my college days, I studied Communications & Marketing, but was always itching for a creative outlet. Handbag design became just that. It was a way to express myself. The concept of having a vision in mind and bringing it to life has always intrigued me. It’s SOUL- SATISFYING.

It hasn’t been an easy journey, but the key is to keep your vision alive!! Keep pushing forward NO MATTER WHAT!! Try to plant at least one seed a day.

I want people to know that SOUS SUS is made for those that dare to be different. She is a trailblazer. She is a Boss in her own right. She doesn’t need to be validated……she validates herself.

My upcoming collection “Clutch It” by
SOUS SUS is a line I’m super excited about. The collection consist of an array of clutches in leather, denim, floral prints & funky prints, which will allow the wearer to go from the movies to the red carpet.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We would be by the ocean, getting a massage and drinking Champaign😊

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Special thanks to everyone who has supported the SOUS SUS brand by sharing a post, telling a friend, buying a bag and sending encouraging words. I appreciate each and everyone of you from the bottom of my heart.

Website: SOUSSUS.com

Instagram: soussusofficial

Facebook: soussusofficial

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.