Thursday, April 18, 2019

11 Fair Trade Gifts for Mother's Day

What better way is there to say thank you to mom (and I love you) than with a fair trade gift? Here are 11 suggestions that are sure to put a big smile on your mother's face. All are offered by fair trade verified Fair Trade Federation members and in a range of price points.

Fused Glass Earrings
1. Fused Glass Teardrop Earrings - Offered in several hues by Dunitz & Company. And yes I had to list our earrings first (and typed with a smile). We offer many shapes and many colors of our fair trade earrings. Teardrops have always been a customer favorite. And anything in combinations of blue are always a sure bet. Hand crafted in Guatemala. Only $18.00









Poppy Scarf
2. Kyrgyz Silk & Felted Scarf - I know these scarves up close and personal. You and mom will be completely wowed by their extraordinary beauty.  Follow the link to learn more about the producers and their family tradition of combining raw silk with felted wool. Offered by Hoonsarts. These are available in several colors and sizes. 79"x 24" $115.00








Castile Soap
3.  Peppermint & Lavender Castile Soap Set - Mom will go nuts for the scents and versatility of Dr. Bronner's pure Castile soap. Gentle enough to use on your face. Take it in the shower. Or heck, you could use it for dishes. I think this gift set is perfect because just about everyone loves the scents of peppermint and lavender. And it's so affordable at $14.99








Striped Aprons
4. Handwoven Bib Aprons - This is the perfect gift for a mom that cooks! We don't think she needs to cook on her special day. But on every other day, she'll want to be decked out in a gorgeous striped fair trade apron. This one comes from MayaMam Weavers and is handmade in Guatemala. $35.00










Ikat Crossbody
5.Ikat Crossbody Purse - From Malia Designs and the perfect size. I love the Ikat fabric in black. The neutral color allows it to be worn with just about anything. Large enough to carry all that one needs and not the kitchen sink. (You know how women tend to carry EVERYTHING, everywhere.) Made in Cambodia. $46.00





Paper Bead Necklace
6. Triple Strand Paper Bead Necklace - These fun 27" long strand necklaces are created with handmade paper beads crafted by the Acholi women of Uganda. Project Have Hope has been working with these women for several years to ensure they can take care of themselves and their families. Your mom will look great and your purchase will help these women. Win-Win. $30.00









Mugs with Heart
7. Speckled Red Heart Mugs - We suggest purchasing a set of 2 for mom. And the visible heart show off just how you feel. And who can have too many mugs for all the fair trade coffee we all drink?  These good looking mugs are crafted in Haiti for Papillon Marketplace. Yes, Food Safe. $16.00/each










Recycled Rubber Travel Case
8.  Recycled Rubber Travel Case - Does mom travel? We know she could always use a nifty case for her makeup and toiletries.  This one from Revy Fair Trade is made from recycled inner-tube and tire rubber. Now how cool is that? Revy's efforts in El Salvador are changing lives. $32.00










Gathered Scarf
9. Gathered Cotton Scarf - Lightweight and fun, we adore this multi-colored gathered scarf from Sevya. Sevya's fair trade scarves are created by artisan groups using centuries-old craft traditions. And, this beauty is actually on sale at the time of my writing. Only $21.00











Luggage Tags
10. Denim Luggage Tags - Is mom a traveler? Perhaps one or more of these fabulous luggage tags fashioned and loomed with recycled denim threads will make the perfect gift? Dad will love them so much, he might steal them away from mom. Available from Mayan Hands and made in Guatemala. $9.00/each









Tablet Sleeve
11. Leather & Woven Tablet Sleeve - Perhaps your mother is glued to her tablet. If she is, you might consider a fabulous looking 13" protective covering. MZ designs some of the most sophisticated pieces coming out of Oaxaca, Mexico. I think these sleeves are sharp. My guess is mom will too. $87.00










So there you have it, my list of  11 fabulous fair trade gifts for mom. Get a jump on Mother's Day and make sure she feels special.

Nancy & Joanie M
And finally, since I am writing about Mother's Day, I must pay tribute to mine. She may be in heaven above, but I think of her almost every day.  Did you see the #1 recommendation above? Dunitz & Company's fused glass jewelry line was named to honor my mom, the original Joanie M. I know she's smiling knowing earrings hanging on cards with her name are selling in so many gift shops and boutiques. -ND