October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and every year; I always take a moment to pause and think of the lives interconnected through a common diagnosis. Cancer is a scary word that transforms lives in an instant and with nearly 1 in 8 women will personally experience a similar diagnosis. While there has been tremendous progress in the treatment and understanding of this prognosis, breast cancer research remains at the forefront of change-making.

Last month, I was invited to join the Vera Bradley team, along with three other amazing influencers, as we participated in the Vera Bradley Foundation Classic. This weekend-long event raised awareness and $1.5 million dollars for breast cancer research. It’s no secret I adore Vera Bradley but seeing a brand I value and admire give back in such a big way, somehow made me love the brand even more.

Throughout the month of October, there are even more opportunities to support the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. Keep reading for how you can get involved!

Background and Mission

In 1993, Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller, the co-founders of Vera Bradley, began raising money for breast cancer research following the loss of their close friend, Mary Sloan. By 1998, the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer was established, and today over $37.5 million dollars have been raised for critical research.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

The Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer raises funds for research and to find a cure and to improve the lives of the many affected by this disease.

With the assistance of the Foundation, researchers at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, IN are leading clinical trials and developing life-saving therapies for some of the most difficult types of breast cancer to treat.

If you feel compelled to donate to this important cause, learn more about how you can get involved and contribute to life-changing research today.

New Patterns Making a Difference for Breast Cancer Research

You all know how much I adore when Vera Bradley drops new patterns, but when I found out two of their newest masterpieces would be benefitting breast cancer research, my heart was so full. Throughout the month of October, 5% of all purchases from Hope Blooms and Hope Blooms Pink will be donated to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer.

Also: if you make a Vera Bradley purchase in October, you also have the option to “round up” and donate to the Foundation! Even more ways to get involved and make a difference!

Last year, I really began to pay attention to companies’ philanthropy efforts and noting what causes they were supporting. I realized it was important to me to know that organizations were focused on more than just making a profit, so when I learned Vera Bradley actively raised funds for breast cancer research, it made me even more confident in the purchases I will continue to make (I love a company on a mission to do good!)

Meet Hope Blooms and Hope Blooms Pink! Honestly when I say both patterns have something for everyone, I’m not kidding!

Hope Blooms

Hope Blooms has a beautiful grey base, with pink flowers as the focal point throughout the design. I love how this pattern transcends seasons and can be carried (or worn) all year long.

My Hardside XL Spinner Luggage is truly the perfect addition to my luggage collection and not only can this single suitcase transport everything I need safely, but the pretty design makes it easy to spot on the luggage carousel! I exclusively use a Vera Bradley XL Campus Backpack as my carryon when I travel, so when I had the opportunity to match my favorite luggage with a pattern donating to breast cancer research, I knew I needed to add this piece to my collection!

Hope Blooms Pink

Hope Blooms Pink is hands down my favorite of the two patterns, simply because of the shade of pink used as the base. I love light pink!

For over a year now, the RFID All in One Crossbody Bag has been one of my favorite styles to carry, because I love the options to carry it as a shoulder bag or wristlet. Not only is there a separate pocket for my phone (say goodbye to car keys scratching the screen) but there are TWO compartments to hold everything from cards to lipstick. Because it’s a smaller sized bag, it’s also the perfect size to gift to a younger person who may be falling in love with Vera Bradley for the first time 🙂

Bonus savings: if you use the code PREPPYANDPINK10 when placing your order (online AND in-store) you’ll be able to save 10% off your entire Vera Bradley purchase. Note: I do make a small commission when this code is used. Together, we can make a difference.

A special thank you to Vera Bradley for sponsoring this blog post. Group golf course image credit to Helen Maser.