About Me

Living The Dream in Bluffton: Where Craftsmanship Meets Purpose

Hi, I’m Wanda Modarelli—artisan, designer, and founder of Living The Dream in Bluffton. My journey into leatherwork didn’t begin in a studio; it began during one of the hardest seasons of my life.

In 2019, shortly after retiring from local government and moving to the Hill Country of Texas with my husband, we received devastating news: he was dying of cancer. As his caregiver, I found solace in crafting with leather—learning, shaping, and stitching by hand. It became more than a hobby; it became healing.

It was my late husband who encouraged me to turn that spark into something more. Together, we came up with the name Living The Dream in Bluffton—a reminder that even through loss, we can build something beautiful.

Today, I create handcrafted leather bags—each one designed with care and built to last. My specialty is concealed carry handbags for women who value both safety and style. Every bag is made by hand, with a focus on functionality, elegance, and enduring craftsmanship.

And while my journey began in loss, it continues in love. I’ve since remarried and am blessed to have a wonderfully supportive husband who now stands beside me, helping to keep this dream alive. Whether it’s working shows, assisting in the studio, or encouraging new ideas, he’s a true partner in every sense.

When you carry one of my bags, you're not just carrying leather—you’re carrying a story of resilience, purpose, and passion.

Welcome to Living The Dream in Bluffton. I'm so glad you're here.