This past Sunday, I was invited to attend the Julie Bee’s pop-up shopping event here in Washington, D.C. Julie Bee’s is a handcrafted women’s footwear company based in Atlanta, Georgia known for their sustainable leather and Made in America pride. At the shopping event, I had the opportunity to interview the founder of Julie Bee’s, Julie Brown, and gather some insight into her American-based shoe company.

Julie Bee’s was founded in Atlanta in 2012. After living in D.C. for several years and experiencing political life on and off the Hill, Julie took the leap and started a footwear company designed for the working woman — for the woman who juggles work, family and friends, but still wants to look fashionable. She wanted to create the “12 hour shoe, not the 2 hour shoe.”

One important principle for Julie is American made — she loves the American dream and what it stands for and believes that to be one of Julie Bee’s company pillars. Julie Bee’s are made using Italian leather that has been dyed with vegetable dye, instead of other chemical dyes, which makes the shoes very high in quality. Some shoes even include special vintage pieces that give your shoe true originality.

As with any business, Julie says the biggest obstacle has been her naysayers and those who have questioned her experience. But, it is through the help of her loyal team that they are able to combat the pessimists and persevere. The group of people she has hired are selfless, which she has marked as one of her greatest achievements with Julie Bee’s.

Julie Bee’s can be purchased online or in their offices in Atlanta, but don’t look for them in department stores anytime soon. Julie believes that the online store allows them to be in charge of the branding experience with the customer, which is a top priority.

After trying on a few styles, I decided on the Atlanta ballet flats {I know, shocking I picked leopard!} Although the Westchester pumps were so comfy {my mom bought those!} I just couldn’t pass up the leopard {and I have a ton of black heels!}. Both shoes were so incredibly comfortable, you can see how the leather will mold to your foot as you wear them. Look for a post soon on how I styled these comfortable flats; they are in route to my house as I type 🙂

Looking forward, Julie discussed some spring 2015 trends and what we can expect from Julie Bee’s in the future. Be on the lookout for high-heel sandals with lots of straps with yellows and blues being the primary color focus. I am so excited to see what Julie Bee’s has planned for spring and beyond!

P.S. A special offer for A Blonde’s Moment followers: Julie Bee’s has given me two discount codes to use on your purchase of a pair of shoes for the first two people who email me that they are interested! Head over to My Julie Bee’s and have a look at some wonderful styles that are sure to impress!  

If you find a pair of shoes you must have and are interested in the discount, please email me at: rachel@ablondesmoment.com. Hurry before my two codes are gone!