Kondra Bags Finds New Life in Michigan, Supporting Artisans Back Home
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – For Maksym and Alla Kondratenko, life in Ukraine was filled with success and stability. As entrepreneurs, they built a thriving handbag business while raising their two young children. But when war broke out with Russia, everything changed.
Their warehouse was bombed, and after months of living in a war zone, the couple made the difficult decision to flee to the United States. Now, after two years of settling into Ann Arbor, they are relaunching their beloved fashion brand, Kondra Bags.
From Ukraine to Ann Arbor: A Journey of Resilience
While selling their handbags in person, Alla Kondratenko often gets asked about the name Kondra Bags.
“Our last name is Kondratenko,” she explains.
The business remains deeply connected to Ukraine, with many of their original artisans still crafting the handbags overseas.
“We have friends in Ukraine who are still making these bags,” said Maksym Kondratenko. “We want to keep this business going here while also supporting them back home.”
Growing Support from the Ann Arbor Community
The couple started by launching a website and shipping products from their home. Thanks to local volunteers and loyal customers, Kondra Bags has now expanded into brick-and-mortar stores across the area.
Mara Davidson, a women’s fashion buyer for Bivouac, was particularly moved by their story.
“I actually immigrated to the U.S. from Romania when I was four years old,” she shared. “I understand the resilience and hard work it takes for immigrant parents to build a better future for their children. Their journey really resonated with me, and I wanted to help bring their products into our store.”
Pop-Up Success Sparks Growth
Local retailer Found in Kerrytown, in partnership with Jewish Family Services, hosted a pop-up event for Kondra Bags. The turnout exceeded expectations, with over 100 handbags sold in a single weekend.
Mary Cambruzzi, the store’s owner, recalled a memorable moment:
“On the second day, Maksym was already on the phone with his friends in Ukraine, placing another order. It was incredible to see how many lives were being impacted by this business.”
A Quality Product with a Meaningful Story
Beyond their inspiring journey, Davidson and Cambruzzi were also impressed by the handbags themselves.
“The materials are absolutely stunning,” Davidson noted. “The craftsmanship, the colors—everything is beautifully designed with so much attention to detail.”
With a steady flow of inventory and strong community support, Alla and Maksym hope to see Kondra Bags regain the success it once had in Ukraine—this time, from their new home in Michigan.
Source: CBS News
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