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AMIDAH Founders Lisa and  Jordanna Cantor on their Cruelty-Free Fashion Brand

[additional-authors]
February 19, 2019
Jordanna and Lisa Cantor the creators of AMIDAH. Images courtesy of Amidah official/ Josh Salcedo

Founded by Lisa and Jordanna Cantor, AMIDAH has been widely praised for producing an innovative vegan leather, cruelty-free, fair-trade-based bag. All in one, this bag is a waist-belt, a backpack, a cross-body, a shoulder and a clutch. It is 100 percent unique in its design and versatility, chic in appearance yet priced at just $95.

Many bloggers and influencers have praised AMIDAH – as founded in 2015 by the British mother and daughter duo. The brand is solidified in the belief that humans should not have to sacrifice anything in order to carry their belongings, hands-free. Also of note is that AMIDAH’s compact, convertible bag was designed in England; after all, as the saying goes, “think Yiddish, dress British.”

I had the pleasure of doing Q&A with both Lisa and Jordanna Cantor, and highlights from that interview are below.

Jewish Journal: I’ve heard AMIDAH be called “the smartest bag of 2019.” How would you describe your offerings to someone who hasn’t yet seen them?

Lisa Cantor: Our AMIDAH bag offers itself as a unique, multifunctional, must-have staple accessory. With the ability to convert into a belt bag, mini backpack, and shoulder bag, the AMIDAH 3-in-1 hands-free design offers a sense of liberation knowing your items are close to you, and safe. While the classic design provides purpose for a variety of occasions. 

 JJ: Are your items entirely made and designed in England?

Jordanna Cantor: The items are designed with our English roots in mind; a classic design with industrial accents. We designed the items in the USA. 

JJ: Do you have a favorite of the AMIDAH offerings?

LC: They are all our favorites, it’s our staple accessory wherever we go.  

JJ: Had you two worked together on professional projects besides AMIDAH?

JC: This is our first professional project. We are exceptionally close and our ideas are always cohesive. 

JJ: Did you know all along that your items would be cruelty-free?

LC: Absolutely, that was our first requirement.  

Lisa and Jordanna Cantor creators of AMIDAH; Images courtesy of Amidah official/ Josh Salcedo

JJ: Who or what first made you interested in cruelty-free fashion?

JC: Seeing the cruelty inflicted on animals purely for the sake of luxury or fashion is unacceptable. It was an absolute conscious decision to not have any animal derived materials to make any of our products. 

JJ: Does your interest in cruelty-free items also apply to your diet and nutritional preferences?

LC: Being that our household was kosher, kosher meat is a preference. Although we both tend to avoid incorporating a lot of meat in our diet, red meat is a rarity.  

JJ: What does the rest of 2019 look like for AMIDAH?

JC: Work and consistency! I don’t think that drive will ever stray when you’re passionate about your business. 

JJ: When not busy with work, how do you like to spend your free time?

LC: With our family, friends and our dogs! Exercising, and the beach. of course. 

JJ: Finally, any last words for the kids?

JC: Do what makes you happy. Always expand your creativity. Follow your intuition.

For more on Lisa and Jordanna Cantor and AMIDAH, please visit their website or find them on Instagram @amidahofficial 

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