In the heart of Amsterdam, where vibrant culture meets serene canals, lives an inspiring entrepreneur who has turned her passion into a thriving business. We caught up with Britt to learn about her journey from a beach town in the Netherlands to running her own brand, Nott Bags. From daily routines to insider tips on Amsterdam, and the origin story of her creative venture, this conversation reveals the essence of blending passion with profession. Britt, let’s chat…
Firstly, before the business chat – you live in The Netherlands right? Have you always lived there? What does a day in the life look like for you? Is Nott your full time gig?
Yes, I was born in the Netherlands in a beach town in the north of the country. After I moved to Amsterdam to study and left for Barcelona for some time. Better weather and the warm Latin culture made me stay for a bit longer. Now back in Amsterdam for a couple of years already. A happy and fun place to live.
A typical day for me can vary a lot! I love change and space for unexpected events. Not an early bird that’s for sure. I try to wake up around 7.30, get a shower, some breakfast and hot tea. Going outside first would be great, but I have to say I usually get to business first. Checking mails, making a short to do list. At the moment I am still involved in the production and getting help from amazing girls. So some crocheting is definitely part of my daily routine. I try to divide my time in blocks: production, mails, social media, finances, packing and sending. A typical small business trying to grow the brand. Which I really love. And if I can fit in some sports then I’m a very happy girl.
Currently I also work two days for a Dutch NGO, so next to my full time gig NOTTie I go to the office involve myself with some numbers and good people that make me stay until I can’t combine it any longer. Let’s see where life takes us! 🙏🏼🙆♀️
For anyone who might have The Netherlands on their hit list – give us some local insiders tips on where to eat, drink and shop.
Oh yes, great questions, asking the right person. It all the depends how you feel and what kind of night or day your looking for.. Easy, chill and delicious: BLOEM eten en drinken for lunch or dinner during summer. Bio and healthy food in the most beautiful ‘hidden’ spot in Amsterdam. Or The Cottage in East. Unfortunately more known by outsiders, but makes sense. Love the triple ginger cake and TIP! add some custard to it ;).
For a night out: Cafe de Klepel, you can order a menu, get some delicious cheese and wine. Very cute, highly recommend. Other places: CENC, NELA, café parry - wine bar in the centre with small plates to share and the olive cake with blue cheese 🤤. UMENO an authentic Japanse place is on my list to try + got tipped Até a more high end dining experience for small groups. Anyways so much to discover - also make a stop in Amsterdam Noord. A lot of nice options, especially during summer.
Back to Nott - Can you tell us a bit about the origin story of Nott Bags? What inspired you to start this brand.
How things start! Always fun when looking back! I was working as a projectmanager, but to me it was not very satisfying. I have always loved to be creative, but never found the outlet where to put this energy. When I saw a very nice bag from the brand Mr Mittens, I thought why not try to make it myself. With some YouTube video’s I learned how to crochet and fell in love the therapeutic techniques. Working with my hands is just so calming to me. I decided it was time for change and quit my job, set up a website and Instagram account and start building a brand that represents my vision on life and style.
As the owner of Nott Bags, what has been the most rewarding part of running this business for you personally?
The most rewarding part to me is freedom and space to fill my time the way I want to be. I feel very lucky to be in such position and am aware of the fact that circumstances have to do with big life choices, but I also believe that if you really want some thing to work, you go for it and hold on until it’s going in a direction that makes you happy. Besides the freedom it gives, I also love to see someone wear their NOTTie, mix it with their own style and feel good. It brings some colour and fun. The satin collection has a more luxurious feel while the denim is sturdy and edgy. I can relate to both and hope others have the same when seeing our products.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own fashion or accessory brand?
If it’s something that’s been on your mind for a while; make sure you do! Regretting and ‘what ifs’ would be a big waste. First make sure to have the funds and time to commit to your brand. Someone once told me: ‘Just don’t run out of money and have fun along the way.’ That always stuck to me. Commitment and funds its as simple as that. Next to those important factors you have to find the right people, aks for help (still learning) and take some risks.
Which piece from your range is personally your most worn?
This is a difficult question, it changes over time that’s for sure! The NOTT V crossbody bag I wear a lot during the days. While the classic NOTTie to me is more a going out piece or for when I’m on holidays (small to pack ;))
I think my all time favourite is the denim NOTT shoulder bag with white stripes. If I had to pick one, that would be my go to piece. It’s unique, fits any outfit and gives cool vibes. Or the NOTTie mini in lipstick pink. ATM very in love with the phone straps. Short cords and crossbody available!
You see I sometimes get stuck making choices.. not recommended for business owners! Learning point number #2. 😄
Before we go, we few rapid fire questions:
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Death row meal: It would be pasta, for sure! Serve me a handmade pasta with truffle and parmesan cheese or a cacio e pepe with an Italian red wine 🍷and rocket tomato salad with the best olive oil you can find. For dessert a chocolate lava cake or affogato. I can go now.
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#1 Bucket List Destination: I want to come your way! Australia next!
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Favourite holiday you’ve ever had: Lapland, a region in Scandinavia. We were in Finland, in the snow, scooters, husky sledding and warm chocolate. It’s the one that popped to my mind when reading the question. Also loved South Korea or tropical destinations.
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Can’t live without: My family and friends - spending time with them makes me most alive.
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Quote to live by: If you don’t try, you don’t know.
We appreciate the time Britt and adore Nott Bags! You can shop Nott Bags on Kinga Csilla now.