TRAY 6 Umbrellas and More

When we came up with the idea for TRAY 6 in 2003, our goal was to reinvent the umbrella as a true fashion accessory.   So much design energy was being devoted to handbags, shoes, clothes . . . but what about umbrellas?   We took on the task of rethinking the neglected umbrella and giving it a long-overdue makeover–no more plain black and enough with shoddy spokes and sharp metal parts.

With the launch of our first few designs in 2004, we went door to door to sell our colorful, stylish new accessories.  We approached boutique after boutique, and to be honest we had to develop a thick skin.  Umbrellas had long been the territory of street vendors, grocery stores, and some department stores, so it was a tough slog.

Flash forward over seven years and umbrellas have come a long way.

In the spirit of innovation, reinvention, and all things creative, we want to give a shout out to inspiring companies and inventive ideas.  We will be sharing with you those products, ideas, and services that are pushing the envelope and that deserve kudos for taking a chance.  We hope you will enjoy and we look forward to your feedback.