Michelle Wood was born and raised in the Chicagoland area but moved to Naples, Florida in December 1997, where she currently resides with her wonderful husband, her 2 dogs and 2 cats.

Tragically, both of Michelle's parents died she was only 8 years old. Her mother passed away from a long bout of skin cancer, and her father passed away 2 months later from a massive heart attack, most likely from a broken heart.

She lived with her (much older) brother and his family until she turned 18, and went out on her own to experience what life had to offer.

Even though she was so young when her parents died, she never let those tragic incidents negatively affect her life.

Instead, she's maintained a positive attitude and sense of humor towards life and whatever obstacles are thrown her way. She is also a firm believer that everything in life happens for a reason and has become an independent and strong woman as a result.

Michelle inherited her mother's talent and passion for sewing and her father's brains and creativity (he was an inventor and entrepreneur). Her parents emigrated from the former Yugoslavia and had very strong work ethics which were instilled in Michelle at a young age.

Tired of corporate America, Michelle desired to finally use the skills and creativity she was blessed with and decided to live out her dream of becoming a handbag designer and business woman. And with the encouragement and help of her husband, Lil' Diva was born in April 2003.

Michelle's unique bags symbolize the inner strength that each woman possesses and hopes her creations will inspire women to think big and live out their own dreams. Life is just too short and precious to continue putting off your dreams.

Michelle wants her funky bags to put smiles on faces all over the world and encourage women to embrace themselves for who they are and not who they think they should be. Embrace the fabulously unique and special woman you are! And remember that ...

"Inside every woman is a Lil' Diva"