About the Founder

Hi. My name is Lauren Gene. I founded Marcella Gene (named for my fabulous grandmother) in 2021 after leaving my traditional 9-5.

My journey to become a highly-skilled leather artisan was inspired by a transformative trip to Italy back in 2019 where I discovered a passion for the artistry of leatherworking and the allure of quality handmade goods. It was there in Positano, with its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural history, that the idea of creating a brand dedicated to the essence of handmade excellence took root.

Wandering through artisan workshops, I fell in love with the intimate connection between craftsmen and their creations. Witnessing the meticulous process of crafting by hand, each piece infused with dedication and skill, left a desire in my heart to pursue a craft of my own. 

Under the mentorship of a former Hermès master leather craftsman, I dedicated myself to perfecting this time-honored craft of traditional leather working..

Marcella Gene is the result of this journey. It embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and the romance of seeing art come to life. From my hands to yours, I hope you enjoy these timeless styles as much as I enjoyed creating them.