 andy spade andy spade, kate's husband and original partner in the business, co-founded "kate spade handbags" in 1993. working late nights and weekends with kate for many years, andy came on board full-time in september of 1996. he joined the company as president and creative director, bringing with him eleven years of experience at advertising agencies such as saatchi & saatchi, kirshenbaum bond & partners, and tbwa/chiat/day. during his years in advertising, andy won numerous awards, including the one show, communication arts, and the coveted award from british design & art direction. in addition, he was named "best east coast copywriter" by "adweek" magazine in 1995. as senior vice president and creative director, andy managed accounts such as coca-cola, evian, reebok, lexus, and coach. andy's experience with some of the world's most recognized brands has helped shape his vision for the company's future. since joining the company, spade has focused on positioning the company in both the domestic and global marketplace, developing product lines, and handling all creative decisions. recent ventures include the 1999 launch of "jack spade," andy's line of accessories for men. at the 2001 american fashion awards, the jack spadeline was nominated for the perry ellis award for new accessories talent. andy grew up as one of three brothers in scottsdale, arizona. he met kate while they were working together at a classic men's clothing store near their college campus. the couple moved to new york city in 1986 and have been together ever since. |
