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

Hi Devan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I decided to pursue a creative career because although I tried many times, I just never felt comfortable fitting into the typical box of most other jobs. I found that by creating my own path I could work within parameters that helped me find balance and live up to my potential.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My company, Dmarxx Design handcrafts leather bags and is currently working to become a “Sober Friendly” business. I currently hand sew all of our bags and would love to one day employ people in the recovery community to also sew the bags. people who may not be able to attain jobs due to some extenuating circumstances brought upon during their active addiction. I believe my current success in my designing and creating career is a direct result of me getting clean and sober 6.5 years ago. Prior to that, Dmarxx Design was more of just a fancy hobby, never able to get off the ground or able to follow through on the next steps to grow, primarily the back end business portions. The signature bag style “Canteen Clutch” now comes in 3 sizes and multiple colors, textures while keeping to a traditional fashion calendar and collection rollout schedule. I also now share my experience in sobriety through the creative outlet of our social media and how it pertains and influences our business. Also, the collection themes each season are inspired by real life struggles in my personal life, the creation of the bags help me express myself and heal from whatever I may be going through while sharing it with others in hope it could help them too! The bags are a conduit for connection, the opposite of addiction.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love where I live by the water, just outside of NYC in East Norwalk CT! Its a cute coastal little town that is stunning in the spring and summer. Walkable to shops, restaraunts, and most importantly the beach and harbors! So much fun to explore in the beautiful new england weather. I would also suggest then jumping on the train and spend a couple days in the Manhattan and Brooklyn to be inspired by the big energy of the big city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a Shoutout to my Recovery Community! And all those who play a part in supporting my Recovery from drugs and alcohol, which allows me to go after my goals and dreams as a designer and business woman.

Website: www.dmarxxdesign.com

Instagram: @dmarxxdesign

Facebook: Dmarxx Design

Other: Dmarxx is owner Devan Markiewicz Instagram

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