Finding the best of fair trade offerings can be hard. If you can't make it to Affinity Fair Trade, or would rather do your shopping online, here are a few ideas of where to shop.
Tip: Fair Trade pricing may seem "high", unless you remember that it's about the value of a real humans time and talents. Read the story of how and where these products were made and see if you feel differently about that "high" price afterward.
For The One Who Stays Home
That friend who would rather stay home, or the sister-in-law who's a total introvert
How about a cozy kantha throw? ReMade India collects saris from the street vendors of India and transforms them into beautiful, unique blankets. They're so soft and cozy (at least 3 layers of sari in each one!), plus a beautiful addition to any room. Choose her favorite colors, but don't be afraid to go a little outside her color-comfort-zone. They'll appreciate that each blanket is unique, has history, and feels like a warm hug.
Shop at: ReMade India
For The Chef
The one whose kitchen is their happy place
Beautiful serving dishes, handmade cutting boards, bread warmers, mugs and teapots and more - try Serrv International. They have tons of unique gifts for the foodie in your life. They're a nonprofit that "ensures that artisans and farmers living in poverty are treated with respect and dignity, and are paid fairly for their work." They work with over 7000 artisans in 25+ countries, so they have a great variety of gifting options.
Shop at: Serrv International
The Acacia Wood Salad from Serrv set in made in the Philippines from sustainably harvested wood.
For The Boho Fashionista
The one wearing the flowy, flowery latest-styles
You might be tempted to give a gift card to this friend because you're intimidated by the idea of nailing their style. There's nothing wrong with a gift card, but choosing an item for them can be a great way to connect. Check out Adorned: a UK company that is a mother-daughter team. Their style is great and I don't think you'd go wrong with a single thing for your boho friend (or a gift card to this shop even). My personal favorite are the Rainbow Striped Cotton Trousers (see pic below of Nancy wearing them).
Bonus: many of their styles are totally androgynous - but don't be intimidated by that if your gift-ee isn't. Androgyny can be all about the styling.
Shop at: Adorned UK
For The Bag Lover
That friend who wants a bag to match every season, vibe and outfit.
I guarantee she doesn't have this bag. How? Each one is unique! They have shoulder, crossbody, hobo, fanny packs, overnighters, wallets and many, many more styles in every color. (I'm not going to admit how many of these beauties I own myself.) Each is made from upcycled saris and each has the name of it's maker written on a tag inside. Be sure to stop by the Meet the Makers page of their website to learn about the woman who made your exact bag!
Shop at: Sari Bari
For The Plant Lover
The one with plants on every windowsill in their home
A live plant always looks great in a colorful planter! Elizabeth's Voice has the most adorable colorful planters (plus other baskets, jewelry and even clothing). Each is handmade in Uganda and gives a woman dignified work and an opportunity for education. They say "Hire a girl, Change the world." Your plant lover can feel connected to a talented woman across the globe as she feeds her plant-babies.
Bonus Gifting Idea: Fill the basket with their favorite candy, pens, or a baking mix when you gift it.
Shop at: Elizabeth's Voice
For The One Who Still Wears A Hoodie In Summer
The teenager (*insert Jaws-eque dramatic music*)
Notoriously difficult to buy for. Doesn't "like" anything. If they want a hoodie, make it a hoodie that is super cozy, well made, and also good for the earth. Yes Friends makes larger batches of more-classic styles so that they can prioritize paying their workers well and still be profitable. Something I can definitely say YES to! Plus, really... they make a super cozy hoodie and tee! Teenager approved (in my house anyway).
Gifting idea: grab a sharpie or fabric marker and handwrite a little heart or "I love you" on the inside of the hoodie's hem for a personalized touch.
Shop at: Yes Friends
In Conclusion
Gifting can be tricky - adding fair trade may seem even more daunting. The options are out there, I promise! Stick with me here on the blog for more Maker Highlights and Brand Reviews, but also, allow yourself baby steps. One small change at a time is a great place to start. Shopping ethically isn't about guilt-tripping. Really it's the opposite! It's about spreading light via connection to humans around the world.
You're doing great. They're gonna love that gift just because it came from you. Happy holidays!
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