Go Gucci in the Name of Education: Poway Business to Fundraise for Schools

Not all purses are created equal, but Powegian business owners Kathleen Jaramillo and Jill Lux don’t think that acquiring a collection has to break the bank. That’s why they opened The Designer Shack, where they sell overstock and display item designer handbags and jewelry at a discounted price.

More than just owners, Jaramillo and Lux love receiving a new batch of purses. The two often share satchels, and Lux’s current favorite is a hand-me-down camel Coach Signature gallery tote that can fit her iPad. Jaramillo’s is but a memory—a Brahmin Melbourne satchel that “got away.”

“I admired it for a week and it sold quickly before I could take it home,” she said. “I haven't seen another one like it since.”

The Shack usually operates online, but will be open to the public once a month starting at noon to 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday at 13075 Poway Rd. They’ll feature brands like Coach, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Brighton, Marc Jacobs and more at anywhere from 40 to 85 percent off.

Event fliers are available from local teachers, and parents of students can earn 10 percent of their total purchase for their classroom—something Jaramillo, a longtime Poway resident, says they’re doing to help counter budget cuts.

“We always like to help with local fundraisers,” she said.