The Insider: Meet Mindy
The Insider column introduces the people and places that make up Petunia Pickle Bottom. Click here for past episodes.
Meet Mindy Ehret – Design & Development Do-It-All
What does Design & Development involve at Petunia? I work with design staff to develop new silhouettes and products for the Petunia line as well as working on redesigns of existing ones. I oversee the design process from the original concept and prototypes on to production-ready products. This includes working with our factories in Asia and traveling over there every 3-4 months to work on development and production.
Were you always interested in design? Yes, I’ve always been creative. When I was younger I was very resourceful and made a lot with found items. I used to make roses for my mom out of Kleenex and dolls with clothespins and tissue paper dresses…
Have you had the chance to design anything for yourself? I did make my own wedding dress which I loved!
Is there anything you’d still love to have the chance to design? Actually one of my favorite things to design is costumes. I have been fortunate to have been able to costume two short films. My ideal project would be to costume a period piece between 1920-1990. I really like the 20th century because then you are able to build a character with a mix of vintage pieces and new design.
So the design part of the job is definitely up your alley. What about the traveling part? You must be racking up those frequent flyer miles with all those trips overseas. I really enjoy traveling to Asia. I like spending time with our factories and working hands on with our team over there. It is a lot of fun to be able to see firsthand the construction of our products and use creative problem solving on the factory floor.
Anywhere else you’d love to visit? I have always had a fascination with Russia because of their whimsical and colorful architecture. I remember when I was little a neighbor traveled there and I was in awe of her photographs. Something about them just stuck with me. I really hope to make it there someday.
As a member of the design team, you must know the PPB product line inside and out. Have a particular favorite? 
The India Ink Touring Tote. I love this bag not only as an everyday purse but also as a travel bag. When I travel for work, I have found this to be the perfect bag for carrying around all of my daily items and the changing pad pocket is perfect for holding my passport, extra money and any documents that I want to keep secure. Then to top it off it is Glazed which allows for it to be wipe-able when the person next to you spills coffee on you in the crowded subway…
Even though PPB’s bags are “technically” diaper bags, we always hear from women that the fabrics and silhouettes make them easy to pass off as out-on-the-town bags and the pockets and compartments make them ideal for keeping everything organized.
So let’s get some other Mindy must-haves…
Must-have fashion accessory? I have a necklace that I purchased in Hong Kong that is a carved red cinnabar medallion with a pagoda and flowers carved into it. It is a great companion to so many different outfits that it is definitely my favorite accessory right now.
Must-have décor accessory? Inke Heiland Wallpaper Menagerie sold at Romp. These are super cute wall decals that are hand cut from vintage and reprinted retro wallpaper. I really like the use of retro designs and bright colors as an accent for a room.
And something you’re never without? My digital Camera and Moleskine sketchbook. I am always taking pictures of inspiring things… everything from unique seam constructions to cool colors to a fun pattern to an awesome plant for our backyard. I use the camera and notebook to gather ideas for every aspect of my life… home decorating ideas, personal sewing/craft projects and then of course work. You never know where you will find inspiration.
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