The Denise Stefanie Handbag Design

Famous singer, songwriter, and producer, Denise Stefanie wrote a moving song, "All In,” supporting the Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation. This foundation raises awareness of and advances research for this and other autoimmune diseases.

I was very touched by a request from the Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation and Race for RP. They asked me to design an exclusive handbag to be given to Denise Stefanie in appreciation of her support of the Relapsing Polychondritis Foundation. I was honored and delighted to become involved.

The various handbag design elements and colors coordinate with the “All In” album cover, including the Race for RP-themed ribbon on the inside of the bag. I also incorporated touches of Nashville fashion to acknowledge the site where Denise had recently debuted this new single: the Music City Grand Prix in Nashville. From there I was granted artistic freedom to complete the gift. This uniquely designed handbag was presented to Denise Stefanie just prior to her powerful performance of “All In,” at the Race for RP event during the race at the @RoadAmerica track in Wisconsin on September 11, 2021. What an exciting moment this was!

For this custom design, I chose luxury materials, exotic leathers, and quality hardware. It was important that the design elements be bold—but balanced. Chic—but intentional. The composition must tell a story of strength and passion. The balance between functionality and beauty in each detail was of primary focus. From the glamorous white leather exterior with a vibrant pink Brazilian cowhide border, to the white Greek key-embossed leather lining, and the message hidden behind a magnetic clasp pocket, every detail mattered. The unique materials and construction of the purse—the details in the dust cover—it would surely be a showstopper! My goal was that the harmony of the design would not just “wow,” but exceed expectations.

The deadline was tight, but I was fueled by inspiration. With the “All In” powerful anthem playing in the background, much prayer, a few tears, and sheer determination and focus, the design took shape exactly as I had envisioned.

The foundation was deeply touched by the handbag design and in a note of appreciation wrote, “Julie, thank you for all the time and energy you put into creating this perfectly colored and unique Race for RP purse for Denise Stefanie. You really went ‘All in’ on this design. So grateful for your artistic vision and talent, and even more excited for Denise to receive and enjoy her special gift. Denise has been and continues to be a driving force in the acceleration of our cause.”