Connect
To Top

Meet Cindy Gellersen of AtelierCG in Burbank

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Gellersen.

Cindy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I had worked in the fashion industry for about 7 years. In 2009 I started my first handbag company with my ex-husband. We got separated in 2015.

That year was an extreme rollercoaster, more like a downhill crash, without breaks. I was experiencing serious health issues, including a stroke, and I even spent a couple of days in a psychiatric health ward.

My time was thus limited with my kids. My kids are my life and drive to move forward.

During the time at the Psychiatric Hospital I kept writing ” stay strong, don’t let them tame you.” I now have a tattoo on my wrist, “stay strong” and the slogan “don’t let them tame you” represents my company AtelierCG, which I started in the beginning of 2016.

With the simple promise and goal that if I could support myself through my designs, I would take my kids to Disneyland 🙂 They actually chose Universal Studios instead, but mission accomplished 🙂

I now have the pleasure to work with retail partners across the US, Australia, England and Sweden. Got the opportunity to create a custom collection for Cavalia Odyseo and I am proud to be part of Breeders Cup.

I am currently working on my Fall/Winter Collection as well expanding the brand with an Equestrian inspired Home Decor Line. Stay tuned 🙂

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
LOL, it is probably the hardest thing I have ever done, but also the most rewarding 🙂

Being your own boss is amazing, but kicking yourself in the butt isn’t always that easy.

I would consider myself a bit shy. So, the most difficult part for me was picking up the phone, talking to strangers and get them excited about my collection.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about AtelierCG – what should we know?
AtelierCG is a Los Angeles based, luxury accessories brand. Inspired by my love of horses. The natural pallet of colors found in equestrian tack form the foundation for a collection that perfectly combines beautiful craftsman ship and style. From leather pouches to tote bags, jewelry and home decor all items are handcrafted in the USA with the highest quality of skills and using the finest materials combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

My handbags are made with original English reins as shoulder straps and finished with the same stich technic found in saddles and bridals. The Signature Bracelet Bandit is designed out of curb chain found in bridals and hand braided with leather. The Tobiano bangle features the slogan “don’t let them tame you” engraved on top of the bar. The Tobiano Signature ring with the same slogan engraved in the inside of the ring. As a little reminder to keep moving forward.

The Throw Pillows are made out of a cotton linen blend with custom print and goes down insert and are the perfect accent for your home or office.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I am sooo proud and thankful for my kids. They are playing a huge part in supporting my decisions and help me keep moving forward 🙂 They are my drive!

I am super thankful to my friend and amazing Photographer, Shelli Wright, of www.shelliwrightphotoworks.com. She is the one who puts the magic touch on all my pictures.

I couldn’t have done it without her. Shelli and her Fiancé Chris Breedesen have always supported me in any way possible and have featured my brand in their magazine, Bisous (www.bisousmagazine.com)

As well as my Model and Face of the brand Ali Stepka. I love her attitude and energy. She is just truly an amazing human and friend! Love this lady to pieces.

I am thankful to all my ambassadors for keeping up their good work and promoting my brand and of course, all my amazing clients. Who appreciate and love what I am creating 🙂

Contact Info:


Image Credit:
Shelli Wrigth Photoworks

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in

  • Portraits of the Valley

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesFebruary 10, 2025
  • Portraits of Hollywood

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesFebruary 10, 2025
  • LA’s Most Inspiring Stories

    Every neighborhood in LA has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates...

    Local StoriesFebruary 10, 2025
  • Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know

    Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a...

    Local StoriesFebruary 10, 2025
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Services Spotlights

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Experiences to Consider

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 15, 2024
  • VoyageLA Gift Guide: Products from the Community

    Our goal as a publication is to encourage more folks to spend their dollars with small businesses, artists and creatives.  Our...

    Local StoriesDecember 14, 2024
  • Portraits of LA

    It’s more important to understand someone than to judge them. We think the first step to understanding someone is asking them...

    Local StoriesNovember 18, 2024
  • Podcast: Your Journey As An Actress

    We’re so lucky to have a great guest with us today to discuss your journey as an actress and so much...

    Partner SeriesOctober 22, 2024