Nino Mdinaradze: The Inspiring Tale of a Creative Artisan and the Global Aspirations of the “SAKO” Handbag Brand

Born on December 10, 1983, in Kutaisi, Georgia, Nino Mdinaradze’s life story is an inspiring narrative of resilience, creativity, and unyielding determination. Losing her father at the tender age of two, Nino was raised by her devoted mother, who dedicated her entire existence to nurturing her daughter. “My mother is everything to me,” Nino reflects, crediting her mother’s unwavering support for shaping her journey.

A graduate of the 40th School in Kutaisi and later Akaki Tsereteli State University, Nino pursued studies in information technology and English. However, her heart belonged to art, a passion that ignited during childhood art classes. She vividly recalls lessons in embroidery, sewing, and knitting, where her creativity often led to repurposing household linens for her dolls’ clothes—much to her mother’s dismay.

During her university years, embroidery became a personal sanctuary. Initially creating pieces for herself, she later felt the urge to share her artistry with others. This vision culminated in the formation of an association for Georgian embroiderers, where artists collaborated and showcased their work. “Each exhibition felt like a celebration of heritage,” Nino recalls, as interest in their craft grew with every event.

However, the global pandemic brought unforeseen challenges, compelling Nino to emigrate to America, leaving behind her homeland and family. She began a new chapter as a nanny for two beloved children, whom she now affectionately calls her “second family.” In this supportive environment, her creativity found a new outlet.

In the quiet evenings, Nino started decorating clothes with crystals, gradually channeling her longing for her children into crafting. One day, while working with beads and thread, inspiration struck, and within two days, she completed her first handmade bag. “Their reaction was priceless,” she recalls, referring to the approval of her host family. Encouraged, she named her burgeoning brand “SAKO”—a word meaning “bag” in Esperanto, which also coincidentally represents the initials of her children, Sandro and Ako.

What began as a heartfelt hobby soon transformed into a thriving venture. Orders multiplied as her unique designs gained attention. Each bag reflected a blend of tradition and contemporary elegance, crafted with painstaking attention to detail. To showcase her work, she launched an Instagram page, SAKOHANDMADES, where she shares her creative process and finished pieces.

Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country, Nino remains resolute in her dreams. She envisions opening a boutique workshop, where her bags can be crafted in a serene setting and displayed for customers to admire. Her ultimate goal? To see SAKO handbags gracing the arms of models on prestigious fashion runways.

“SAKO is more than a brand—it’s a reflection of my journey, my roots, and my love for my children,” Nino emphasizes. While her heart is deeply tied to her homeland, she is grateful for the opportunities America offers, calling it “a land where dreams take flight.”

As her craft evolves, so does her ambition. Each new design is a testament to her perseverance, creativity, and commitment to excellence. With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, Nino continues to stitch her legacy, proving that even the most challenging circumstances can give rise to extraordinary achievements.

Her story is not just about creating handbags; it’s about weaving together dreams, love, and a deep-rooted passion for art. “One day, my children will see what their mother has created, and I hope they’ll be proud,” Nino says with heartfelt conviction.