Have you been paying attention to our Fashion Friday posts? If so, here is your chance to learn more about the stories behind the products and the companies. Today, I am going to tell you a bit more about Mata Traders. Mata Traders was founded in 2003 by two best friends, Maureen and Michelle. Their… Continue reading »
Feb
18
Women Entrepreneurs in Afghanistan
Thanks to Voices, we discovered a neat NY Times article and wanted to share it with all of our rabid readers! It’s a great illustration of the strength of women, and how they can succeed in the toughest circumstances. Mr. Niazi, who owns a women’s clothing boutique in Kabul, credits all of his successful business to… Continue reading »
Feb
17
Do you love fair trade? We do!
Since it’s love month, we wanted to express our love for fair trade and our artisans by posting some of our favorite products and the stories behind them! Winter Berry Pillow by SERRV This pillow, along with many other beautiful items, is made by women in Bangladesh at the YWCA of Dhaka Craft Centre. Many… Continue reading »
Jan
27
Who knew paper could create beautiful jewelry?!
Today we are highlighting recycled paper jewelry from SUUBI and Light Gives Heat! Suubi means hope. This project is about creating consistent weekly incomes in otherwise unemployable areas in Uganda through the purchasing and re-selling of handmade jewelry. This allows for women to provide food and pay school fees for their children. The majority of… Continue reading »
Apr
21
Sseko sandals make it to Mustard Seed
I think it’s easy to get caught up in the notion that fair trade items are just home accessories or indulgences like coffee and chocolate. But when fair trade spreads to something like clothing or shoes that are indispensable parts of our everyday lives, it becomes a really exciting thing (at least it does for me). That’s… Continue reading »
Apr
14
The Inspiration of Flowers
One of my favorite things about spring is freshly cut flowers filling up vases all over my apartment. Even when they’re still in full bloom, I begin to daydream about what beautiful pressed flowers could come from them when their freshness wears off. Try as I might, I will never be able to make as… Continue reading »