I absolutely love everything August California Bags represent: adventure, wanderlust, dreams, travel, and excitement. You either have the travel bug or you don’t. I was just talking to my parents about that very thing this weekend. Where my dad would be comfortable staying around places he is familiar with, my mother and I have a bug that has us wanting to see more. I often times worry this bug will never be satisfied. It is such the overwhelming feeling of all there is left to see, but really, I get more excited than anything. I just want to explore the world and learn all I can about cultures, art, photography, landscapes, and beauty. This same yearning to see and learn was within Charles and Jenna Jackson.

In the spring of 2011 Jenna and Charles, the founders of August California, packed up their San Francisco apartment and prepared for a year long journey around the world. The next twelve months would take them to the top of Africa in Tanzania, to the bottom of the Americas in Patagonia, to the cities of eastern and western Europe, and upon the rivers of Asia in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It was in these very locations where they sought out bags and accessories that would exude the old world luxury of Europe, and withstand the demanding elements of all travel.

Since arriving back in California, they have taken their inspirations from each trip and crafted it into a beautiful bag perfect for any traveler. Each piece comes from a memory during their yearlong adventure and is made by local artisans in California; all with the understanding of what is demanded from a life on the go. This very story and thought behind each bag is why I love them so much!

It is only fitting that without even looking I would choose the bag that was  inspired by their time spent in Paris’s Marsais District and their weekly trips to the market. I can’t tell you enough how beautiful these bags are and how perfect they are for anyone taking an upcoming trip! The straps are just perfect for easy carry and the material is absolutely stunning. You feel like you are carrying something really unique – like a souvenir from your latest exotic trip!  Best part? They also make bags for men so now you can have the perfect gift for that perfect travel companion.

I hope you check out August California and become as inspired as I have while reading their tales about their adventures around the world!