Show Us Your Purse

■ Who? Dena M. Tecson, Sammy's Woodfired Pizza regional manager

■ Location: Sammy's Woodfired Pizza, Sahara location

■ Handbag: Kate Spade patent leather bag

■ Are handbags status symbols? I don't believe handbags are necessarily a "status symbol." I believe handbags are a style/lifestyle symbol. One's choice in handbag says a lot about their personal style as well as their lifestyle. I choose my handbags not only by visual beauty or trends but also by function ability.

■ What does this bag say about you? The shape says that I am a practical person. The patent leather says I'm a stylish person and the color red shows I can step on the wild side.

■ If someone found your bag and looked inside, what would they think of you? They would think I'm a person who is constantly on the go. I basically live out of my handbag.

■ What's the most important item you've carried in your bag? My son's picture.

■ What's the strangest item you've carried in your bag? A goldfish in a bag of water (my son had to have one).

■ Tell us about the first special bag you owned. I remember being in high school and working all summer saving my money to buy a beautiful logo'd Coach handbag. I dreamed about that bag every night and felt a great accomplishment when I was finally able to purchase it. I still have it to this day.

■ Knockoffs: Love 'em or hate 'em? Hate 'em. By buying a fake you are lying to yourself. People buy designer handbags because they want fine quality and craftsmanship. By buying a fake you are only getting poor quality and craftsmanship.

■ Image is ... not only how others perceive you but also how you perceive yourself.

■ What's in your bag? Refillable lululemon water bottle, Spare Sole convertible shoes (I love to slip these on and give my feet a rest), Las Vegas Athletic Club membership (to stay fit and feel good), Zizzazz (for those long days), Herban Essentials (These are great to freshen up with midday), sunglasses (With all the driving I do, these are a must).