16. Turning point

Inspired, I ran to the meeting with Geppetto to show him my ideal concept…and that’s where a shock was waiting for me: he told me that his production was unable to create my bag. I could not believe it. How could this be? My soul danced with him...

Geppetto added, “Your design is unusual. I want to help you find your factory. Rely on my experience and contacts here. I know the best manufacturers.” Since I had no idea what to do next, Geppetto seems the perfect guide to this world.

So we began visiting different factories in the south of Italy. On our trips, Geppetto shared how the industry worked. The best factories worked hush-hush. They did not take part in exhibitions, because their clients took part in those exhibitions. They didn’t advertise themselves, so the only way to discover them was through recommendation; they didn’t have any identifying signs on their buildings and almost always, they didn’t speak English. I saw how indispensable Geppetto’s help was. What would I do without him?