Fitting in Some Self-Care Time with The Pioneers of Fair Trade
Ten Thousand Villages
I’m sure most of you reading this post have heard about Ten Thousand Villages. You probably even have one near where you live. Throughout the last five years, I’ve directed a lot of family and friends to this wonderful store because it truly is an experience. Especially for everyone I knew who was visiting Asheville, I would tell them, ‘You need to go to Ten Thousand Villages!’
Reasons to Love Ten Thousand Villages
Putting People and Planet first for over 70 years: More than just a store, this market-to-market movement connects us to some of the most talented artisans all over the world. Our purchase directly contributes to sustainable livelihoods and keeping crafts original. Every product celebrates culture and the planet, so you know not one is compromised for the other.
The Enormous Product Range: If you haven't had the joy of visiting one of their shops, you need to go online and do a quick go-through of all their categories. They probably have one of the most comprehensive lists of ethical and fair trade goods of any store I've seen.
Easy Gift Shopping: Eek, I think I screamed for joy at the coffee shop when I realized you could make a wedding registry through Ten Thousand Villages! Sign me up, please. It's much more my style. ;) In addition to being able to make a registry, they have an excellent gift guide for all different occasions and budgets.
What I’m Wearing
Paisley Cotton Robe: Out of all the categories, we will focus on their bath & body section, perfect for a day of self-care and relaxation. This robe is block-printed by Aravali, a for-profit company supporting around 150 artisans in the Jaipur area. Block printing has to be one of the most exciting ways of creating design on fabric because it is somewhat labor-intensive and requires great skill. They make a design on a wooden block, carefully dip it into dye, and then onto the fabric until the entire fabric is covered. How beautiful is this paisley?
designs by Aravali
more fair trade products to add to your self-care days…
Cat Nap Velvet Sleep Mask
Pedicure Friend Seahorse
Natural Hemp Washcloth
Coffee Ground Exfoliating Soap
Where to Purchase
You can shop Ten Thousand Villages online - here - or check out their list of brick-and-mortar shops. There may be one near you! Also, don’t forget to stay up-to-date with all new products on Instagram.
