1982 Our History

IT ALL STARTED WITH A FRIENDSHIP...

Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller came upon a colorful idea while traveling together in 1982 (on a girls’ trip, of course!). Sitting in an airport during a long layover, Barb and Pat observed the need for more color and fun in women’s luggage. When they returned to Indiana, they each borrowed $250 and cut patterns on a family ping-pong table — quickly turning a simple idea into an iconic American brand that is loved and carried by millions of women today. Vera Bradley has since grown into an internationally recognized, iconic lifestyle brand providing beautiful solutions to its customers.

Vera Bradley is a leading designer of women’s handbags, backpacks, tote bags, luggage and travel items, fashion and home accessories and unique gifts. The brand’s innovative designs, unique patterns and brilliant colors inspire and connect women unlike any other brand in the global marketplace. Vera Bradley offers a multi-channel sales model as well as a focus on service and a high level of customer engagement. While our headquarters are in Fort Wayne, Indiana, we reach much further through our community support and supply chain initiatives.