We love all of the amazing independent designers out there. In order to find out more about just what makes all of these creative types tick, we present to you an ongoing segment called Indie Designer Interviews.

Today we'd like to introduce you to custom handbag and accessory designer Theresa M. Goodwin of Sakura Urban Studio. We love her leather poppy wristlets, pouches, necklaces and bracelets, not to mention all of her other fabulous designs!

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. I am a self-taught seamstress that designs handbags and accessories out of fabric and leather. I love creating unique, one of a kind pieces that are unique to every person who carries them. Custom orders are some of my favorites. Being able to create something that really speaks to someone always puts a smile on my face. It's like they have a connection to your work, as do I as the designer.

How did you get started as a designer? I have always considered myself a creative person. I have been drawing and painting ever since I was in elementary school. In May of 2005, I wandered into a studio that had custom made handbags. They looked so rich and vibrant in color. I knew right then and there that I wanted to create something like that. I went home that evening dreaming about what I could create and could barely sleep. The next day (okay, morning), I went and bought my very first sewing machine, fabric yard, and a "How To" book and went to work. I sewed all day and had my first handbag made by 9 p.m. that evening. It wasn't perfect and definitely needed some work, but darn it, I made it and had accomplished the impossible. I was so proud. I have been hooked ever since. I opened my Etsy shop a few months later and then opened up my first boutique selling my work and work of other artists. I have been creating and perfecting ever since.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Don't think that just because you don't have the experience or have never touched something that you cannot do it. I am living proof that you can begin at any point in your life and be successful. No one taught me what I do. I taught myself with a book that cost five dollars. Don't be discouraged either. There have been many days and nights spent in tears because I just couldn't get it right. But it does work out. Eventually. And you will be successful. Just keep learning and perfecting your craft.

What inspires your work? I get my inspiration from everywhere! I am fortunate enough to live in the city, so I see all kinds of people and things. I love fabrics. I love texture. I love the way leather smells when you unroll it. Being in the city really energizes me to do something. I usually sit at Starbucks in the morning to drink coffee and just let my mind wander. Things always come to me. Fabrics inspire me. Anytime I get new fabrics, I always think "what can I make with that?" My mind races and I get to work immediately.

Who are your favorite designers? This is such a tough question for me. I can honestly say that I do not really have much of a favorite. If I had to choose, I would say Lotta Jansdotter inspired me in the beginning and was a favorite designer. But really, Etsy is my favorite. There are so many creative people on there that are so good at what they do that I have probably 100 favorites on there.

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? My fashion must have, I must say, is my black poppy wristlet that I created myself. Really. I'm not just saying that. I love it and carry it everywhere I go. Also, in the summer, I always have a Deep Steep Tangerine moisture stick with me. It's the best. Completely organic and smells delicious. You can use it anywhere too, not just on your lips!

Where can people find your work? You may find my work at Sakura Urban Studio in Indianapolis, Indiana. My shop website is www.sakuraurban.com. I also sell online at Etsy. My Etsy shop is www.tmstudiodesigns.etsy.com.

Anything else? I would encourage people to buy handmade items. You not only support an artist, but it honestly does help the environment when things don't have to be shipped overseas with energy and fuel. There are also many talented artists out there who create beautiful, one of a kind pieces that can be yours and yours only. Be different and be your own style.