notablySmitten

Guatemala

sage for spring - Tribe Alive

artisanal, artisans, bags, Families, job creation, kindness, Womeneden tirlComment
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The Bitty Crossbody Bag from Tribe Alive is probably the cutest bag you’ll own. Made to fit your essentials, the bag is handmade in India featuring waterproof suede and an adjustable shoulder strap. It’s also available in black and in this beautiful sage suede color that makes it perfect for warmer weather.

Tribe Alive was founded by Carly Burson. Since then she has been committed to using her brand as a way to help those in developing countries get out of poverty. She built relationships with female artisans in Guatemala, India, Haiti, and Honduras to provide you with high quality goods. In exchange, the artisans gain a fair wage and a safe working environment. 

We’re delightfully Smitten!

love blooming...josefina pouch - Mercado Global

bags, beauty, cause conscious, cosmetics, fair trade, hidden treasureseden tirlComment
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This gorgeous pouch pops with color and texture! I love the hand-embroidered traditional pattern against the modern black leather found on the Josefina Pouch

Sparked by an idea when working with artisans in rural Latin America, founder Ruth DeGolia began Mercado Global while still a student at Yale.  In 2004, Mercado Global recieved a start-up grant from Echoing Green, and has exponentially grown over the last 11 years into a globally recognized company with a powerful mission: empower indigenous women to overcome poverty and become agents of change in their communities.

Mercado’s mission is two-fold.  First, it provided business education to talented female artisans so that they can grow their skills into a business.  Secondly, it connects these indigenous women to global markets to sell their products on a large scale, which in turn empowers them to support their families and provide more opportunities for their children. Over time, this model pulls entire communities out of the poverty cycle.

Mercado Global has partnered with over 400 women across Guatamala!  This hard work translates into beautiful products supporting a beautiful cause.

Totally Smitten!