Cheryl Brooks, the multi-talented designer and illustrator behind the popular brand of Nilaja greeting cards, presents her handbags in a classic urban style that puts a spin on the arts & crafts industry.
The company name Nilaja means "to bring joy" in the Yoruban language of Nigeria. Everywhere that Cheryl goes, girls and women of all races, creed, and color inquire about the new millennium "bling" bag that she is carrying. Her first client was Cassandra Mc Cree-Walker of HBO's, "The Wire." She liked Cheryl's Nilaja bag so much that she had Cheryl put her belongings in a zip lock bag and sell her the one that she made for herself. Recently, Cheryl has added actress/comedian/producer, Kym Whitley to the list of women who possess the Nilaja bag. These bags have a silk or rayon lining, and are embellished with quality rhinestones and Swarovski Crystals. The handbags are also reversible. In the sunlight, these bags shimmer from a distant. She also adds a touch of her own artwork. The purse handles are made with a variety of handles such as glass beads, acrylic beads and bamboo, and jewelry converted into purse handles. Cheryl has also created several purses decorated with beads artistically shaped into “girly” designs like butterflies, daisies and dragonflies. Brooks also makes with a variety of trinkets, so long as she can find a way to attach them. Cheryl also makes a messenger bag for men and plans to present an array of bags including garment bags, duffel bags and backpacks.
Each Nilaja creation is custom designed; no two pair of jeans are alike. This is the same concept behind her greeting cards. Cheryl will also customize a bag with your
