We recently had the chance to connect with Chau Sáenz and have shared our conversation below.
Chau, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Most mornings, my day doesn’t start with me—it starts with getting my son ready for school. Packing his backpack with snacks, lunch, and water, then making breakfast for the family all comes before I even get to make my own iced matcha or eat something myself. Only after that can I focus on my own health and set the tone for the day.
Every day looks different. Sometimes I can dive straight into work and have long, uninterrupted hours before school pickup—that feels “productive” in the traditional sense. But the truth is, more often than not, my days are a mix of bits of work and managing the household. And instead of seeing that as falling short, I’ve been learning to see it as a win.
Because being able to balance both—doing a little work, keeping the house running, taking care of myself, and being there for my family—is the reality of productivity in this season of life.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Chau Sáenz, and I’m the founder and designer behind Chau Sáenz Luxury Handbags. I create limited-edition, artisan-made handbags that combine timeless design with intentional details—like extra-long straps for inclusivity and craftsmanship built to last. Each piece tells a story, not just of luxury, but of resilience, artistry, and heritage.
What makes my brand unique is that it’s deeply personal. I trained under a Hermès artisan and at a leatherworks school in San Francisco, so every bag carries forward that tradition of excellence. But I also design from the perspective of a modern woman, mom, and creative—someone who wants style without compromise and values pieces that can accompany her through all stages of life.
Right now, I’m working on growing the brand through curated pop-up experiences in unique spaces, collaborations with other creatives, and an upcoming limited-edition collection. My goal is to connect with women not just as customers, but as part of a community that values artistry, individuality, and story-driven design.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a girl just trying to feel comfortable in my own skin. I was balancing the weight of expectations—my own, and those shaped by my immigrant upbringing—while still trying to figure out what I truly wanted. It wasn’t until my late 20s that I began to step into myself as a woman. Becoming a mom gave me a fresh perspective on the world, and starting my company showed me the incredible support that exists when you step out with courage.
All of these experiences together have given me an inner strength and clarity to pursue my passion wholeheartedly. I know I’ll reach the people who believe in me and my work. The rest—the doubts, the noise—may distract you at times, but they can also serve as motivation to keep going.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: You don’t need to have it all figured out right now. Trust that every step—whether it feels like progress or not—is shaping you into the woman you’re meant to be. Give yourself grace, because the things that make you feel different or unsure today will one day become your strengths.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is family, integrity, and creating something meaningful. They know I care deeply about showing up for the people I love, building connections that are genuine, and putting my heart into the work I do. They’d probably also add that I’m passionate about storytelling—whether it’s through my handbags, my writing, or the way I share life experiences—because for me, it’s all about leaving something lasting and real.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
What I would regret most is not taking the chance to fully pursue my vision—as a mom, a woman, and a creative. I don’t want to look back and wonder what could have happened if I had played it safe. I would regret not sharing my story, not creating the pieces I feel called to make, and not showing my son that it’s possible to chase your dreams with courage. For me, the bigger risk is in not trying at all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://chausaenz.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chausaenz_official/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chausaenzofficial
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Chausaenzofficial
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