Things that are worthwhile and life-changing are rarely easy. My most recent artisan visit was a 46 hour journey to reach Indonesia. Visits with our artisans always have a similar agenda: to check in and be sure they are doing well, talk about ideas for the future, provide support, and to continue building strong relationships. An idea had been in the back of my mind for several years, and I finally felt that it was the right time to act on it. About five years ago, during one of my first few visits to Indonesia, I was in a remote residential village with small, family-run corner shops that sold just the essentials. It was quiet, low-key, and peaceful. Then, amongst...
Earlier this year, I logged one thing I was grateful for each day. I think of myself as a pretty positive person, but that’s easier said than done on really trying days. Sometimes the things that bring the most stress also bring the most joy. Hiding or shaming our negative emotions isn’t healthy, emotions in the “sad” category should expressed and explored and not immediately suppressed. But, recognizing that there is some good in every day, can help you be grateful for the life you have and give you a reason to search out the positive, even when it might be a little tough to come by. Below are my gratitude observations each day: Day 1: This morning’s hot...
Have you met our Spring Getaway Collection yet? We’d love to show you around! Arbo Necklaces and Earrings The Tree of Life symbolizes a fresh start on life, positive energy, good health, and a bright future. Available in your favorite colors. Cunar Bracelet Bring a lucky coin with you wherever you go. Our Cunar Bracelet features a real vintage Peruvian coin with twisted metal accents on a vegan leather band (and it's under $15, too!) Piedra Necklace This is how we do refreshing. Start your spring with natural stone hues that each tell their own story. Pearl Dangle Earrings What could be cuter than our brand new Pearl Dangle Earrings, handmade in Zambia? Rillo Earrings...
Unless you’ve just begun following us, you’re probably well aware of our mission to spread hope in developing countries by offering employment opportunities to underserved communities. (And if you are new to us, welcome!) Nearly every Fair Trade brand embraces this model, so we wanted to break it down and help our customers truly understand it.This is a unique way of doing business that shows how a broad impact can be made without simply donating to a charity. The opportunities provided to these groups help them rise above their situations and give them the tools and experience to continue growing their potential. When you help one woman rise above poverty, she takes an average of 4-6 people with her and...
It’s a very real thing, and chances are you know someone affected by it. Imposter Syndrome is the inability to realize that accomplishments have been earned by your own hard work and often leads to the feeling of being a “fraud”. Even evidence of these accomplishments isn’t enough to sway this notion (most common among women), and is often explained as luck, timing, deception because they don’t deserve the success.If this is something that you’ve experienced, you’re in good company. Incredibly successful women (like Maya Angelou, Tina Fey, and Natalie Portman) have all experienced this. Stepping outside your comfort zone can be exhilarating, help you learn a new skill, and push you in ways you haven’t yet discovered. There’s nothing...