Madelyn Rich grew up in a family of tall women. According to Madelyn: “We had difficulty finding fashionable pieces that looked good on us, so it was not surprising all of us sewed. I began knitting and sewing when I was about 10 years old. I always made simple, classic pieces so I could create crazy, funky hats, scarves, and handbags. I found I could just change the accessories without having to make a whole new outfit. Dramatic colors, striking patterns and alluring textures always made me happy. I traveled around the world; and accumulated yards and fabrics in playful prints and skeins of yarn in jaunty colors, in wonderful wool, silks and cottons. I love designing pieces that are multi-functional - a handbag that converts to large tote, a reversible tote or a clutch that has two completely different looks.”
When she retired, Madelyn turned her passion for accessory design into a business: Accents by Madelyn. She was enthusiastic to share her work across the city and Accents by Madelyn began to pop up at street and craft fairs throughout New York City, but she did not have an online presence.
Madelyn scheduled an appointment at the Local Development Corporation of East New York, a member of the NYC Small Business Technology Coalition, where a business counselor worked with her to develop a website for Accents by Madelyn. Her website is now live and selling her unique hand-crafted accessories and gifts online!
The NYC Small Business Technology Coalition is a public-private partnership between the NYC Department of Small Business Services, Citi Community Development, and community development organizations across New York City committed to connecting entrepreneurs from low-to-moderate income communities access and adopt technology.