Hello, dahlings . . . I’ve been expecting you. It’s time we got acquainted, don’t you think? Before you buy some of my gorgeous bags, you should know a little about me.

Because, of course, it’s ALL about ME.

I was born a poor little gator in the Everglades of south Florida. Mama always told me I was destined for bigger and better things. How right she was.

And so it was that I made my way to Gainesville and the University of Florida. As you might imagine, I became quite popular on that campus. I was president of my sorority, Eta Lamda Pi, and thrice elected BCOC (Big Croc on Campus). Truth be told, I’m pretty sure the whole Florida Gator nickname was in my honor. Why, they even named their football field “The Swamp” — need I say more? In fact, to this day, my kid brother Albert and his adorable wife Alberta entertain the crowds on game day as the team mascots. Sad to say, after all these years they still haven’t graduated. . .

On a personal note just between you and me, I met my life-long love on that fabulous campus. It was his toothy grin and handsome tail that caught my eye. Oh my yes – it was love at first sight! Unfortunately, for professional reasons, we’ve had to keep our love affair a secret for all these many years. But since you asked, I’ll give you a hint: you can find my beloved’s likeness on all manner of clothing bearing a certain brand name.

After graduating, I made my way to the Big Apple. (Any city named for food gets my attention.) But what a disaster that was! I launched my career as a runway model in the fashion district, but my healthy appetite seemed to frighten away most of those skinny little “appetizers” I worked with. But horrors upon horrors — the final straw was that tragic, unforgettable day when they introduced a line of . . . of . . . ALLIGATOR SHOES! The first pair I saw bore such a striking resemblance to my dear daddy, I literally fled the district then and there! All these years later, the memory still sends a shiver down my long, long spine.

But as the Good Book says, all things work together for good. Out of sheer boredom one day, I stitched up a sassy little bag in which to carry my extensive portfolio. When people began stopping me on the street, positively raving about my stunning creation, I knew I’d found my passion in life – and thus alli-bags was born! I've even included my signature pearl on the inside pocket of every alli-bag – girls just gotta have pearls!

The rest is history, dahling. And now YOU have an opportunity to be a part of my happy tail, er tale, of success. So snap to it! Grab that shopping cart and fill it up!

Because life without an alli-bag really bites!

Ta ta for now!