My Choices for this Fair Trade Holiday Season - Edibles & Consumables

I love receiving gifts. After living so many years (oy!) I have so much stuff.  What does that mean? My favorite gifts are edibles and consumables. Here are some fantastic gifts for Holiday 2023 that are just that. My choices support fair trade and many of my Fair Trade Federation colleagues.

Dean's Beans for Coffee: My choice of course comes from Guatemala where Dunitz & Company has worked with artisans since 1989.  Not only do I adore Guatemalan coffee, my choice is always medium roast. Enjoy a good cup of coffee and know workers were treated fairly. 1lb for $14.89

Ten Thousand Villages Rose Soap: A repeat performance on this one! I bought several types of TTV soaps from Global Gifts Fair Trade a couple of years ago for gifts for Mr. Postman, Mr. DHL, Mr. Fedex and a bunch of other friends. I have a few friends still talking about the Rose Soap and how much they loved the smell. How could I not put this on the list for 2023? One Bar, $5.99. 

 

African Bronze Honey: I eat a lot of honey. I love honey. Typically I buy local at the Hollywood Farmer's Market on Sundays.  I've been eying my Fair Trade Federation colleague's honey for a long time. Maybe you want to treat me to a jar? A 12.35oz jar of their Organic Wild Honeydew Forest Honey is $15.50 - it might be gone in one week!

Quinoa Cookies: I love cookies. I love baking cookies. And I love eating cookies. When I learned that my FTF Colleague, Andean Dreams offers cookies, you know this had to go on my holiday list. I'm not vegan or gluten intolerant, but their cookies are perfect for those that are. Wanna surprise me with their Quinoa Cookies Variety Pack? I'm sure you have friends that would love these. $18.99

Rumi Olive Oil: From Canaan Palestine Fair Trade. This small business works with farmer to bring us fair trade oil and other yummy edibles that I know you will enjoy eating. Whether you like to cook or prefer do drench your bread in tasty olive oil, this might be the perfect gift for you. Or yes, give it to the cook in your life. It's on my list. A 500ml bottle is $35.00 

Chocolate Bar Collection: Equal Exchange is known for their chocolate. In my book, the darker the better. They're offering this assortment this season which would definitely please me. That means it will please a lot of your friends and family members who have a sweet tooth. Since I'm nuts about coconut, I can't wait to dig my chops into the Coconut Milk variety. That's if someone sends me some! $30.00

Cardamon & Clove Candle: Our FTF retail partner and colleague, Humankind offers an amazing collection of candles that come from Bright Endeavors, a Chicago based social enterprise that trains and helps young mothers facing economic hardship in the inner-city. These women make wonderful scented and soy candles. My choice is the Cardamon & Clove. Burning at home, the exotic smells remind me of my travels to Asia. A 4oz candle will last 20 hours and is only $15.00

 

Umzimbubu Chili Ginger Pepper: ships from Latitudes Fair Trade and is made by Serv. I confess, this one is probably not perfect for me, and better suited for the cooks in your circles. I used be cook a lot and was quite good at it. In recent years I really haven't spent much time with a stove top or over.  When I look at the collection of spices Latitudes offers, it certainly inspires me to bring out the pots and pans.  One bottle of spices is only $7.75 which means a few together would make an amazing presentation.

There you have it! If these gift suggestions work for me, you know they work for lots of other. When you support fair trade you really are making a positive difference in the lives of producers and supporters. Dunitz & Company (that's me) certainly knows that first hand. Happy Holidays! -ND

We Know You Love Blue - Why Not Own Fair Trade Blue?

If you've read some of my blog posts before, you will hear me spout time and time again that blue is the best selling color for Dunitz & Company.  We love blue. And we know most of you do too. It doesn't matter what shade of blue. Just visit your local paint store and check out all of the chips. Any shade or tint will do. And I know if I use these colors in my jewelry designs, many customers will be blissfully happy.  Recently I've posted a couple of Instagram stories asking folks if "blue was their favorite color." And consistently 50% answered YES. That's a convincing stat.

It only made sense when a few of my Fair Trade Federation colleagues and I decided to collaborate and preach colors, I should select blue.  So my question to you is - "Why not fair trade blue?"  Check out this little gift guide below showing off beautiful blue items from around our globe. See something you love? Snag it and support fair trade. Every purchase makes a difference in the lives of artisans struggling to make it. And heck, sometimes I think I'm struggling to make it too. Fair Trade is not charity. In order to work, everyone from top to bottom, from producing to selling needs to earn living wages.

So here I go. Check out these fabulous ethically made blue items.

Bead Teardrop Earrings $20 - These are from Dunitz & Company and handcrafted in Guatemala.  I had to put one of my designs first, didn't I? And one of the reasons I started with these, is I know just how loved this style is. It's evergreen - or in this case everblue!  I designed it many years ago, and every season create new color combinations. And in blue, yes yes yes!

Zulu Basket Desk Set $119 - Four beautifully created and predominantly blue wire baskets could look swell on your desk. The Zulu are the largest ethnic group in South Africa and are known for their skill and artistry in fashioning baskets. Baskets of Africa collaborates with these artisans to bring you these fabulous pieces.

Handwoven Silk & Ikat Scarf $45 - I can vouch for the beauty of these scarves brought to market by Hoon Arts from Uzbekistan. I've personally spent a lot of time touching these pretties, and they are niiiiiiice. (Yes, I meant for all of those iiiiiiii's.) If you're a textile person, you'll totally dig the beautiful ikat work. And if you love blue, this piece should be in your lane.

Ashani Hand Woven Poncho Was $69, snag it now for $49 - Now this is my sort of blue. And these ponchos from Sevya are made by master weavers in India with a special jacquard weave and handmade tassels.  These pieces are even hand-stitched at the side. You'll feel so special when you wear yours.

Like the look, but prefer scarves?

Sarvani Scarf  Was $55, now $39 - You can purchase these beauties that are created with the very same woven fabric as the poncho I featured above. A number of highly skilled artisans are involved in the making of each scarf; from spinning the yarn to setting the loom barrels, weaving, and making the tassels. And another fun fact, no electricity is used at any stage of production. Do you need to know more? Click to the Sevya website.

Glass Bib Necklace & Teardrop Earrings $48 and $20 - Cobalt blue with aqua. Can you think of a better water color combo?  This fused glass comes from Guatemala and is crafted by artisans outside of Guatemala City.  These come from Dunitz & Company (that's me) and come from a collection I began designing with artisans in 2011. Because it is so different from our beadwork, I named this collection Joanie M to honor my mother. Want the cuff featured on the model. Only $28. Click this link for the bracelet.

Sterling Silver & Turquoise Earrings $90 - Rikki from HoonArts is one of the only fair traders collaborating and working with artisans in Central Asia. It's just not easy to get there! She is proud to bring you the work of Zhanyl Sharshembieva, a master silversmith from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. And what could be more perfect that silver and turquoise blue?

Shallow Bowl $45 - It's tough to tell from this photo, but this piece has a diameter of 8.25" and a height of 1.5". That's a lot of weaving skill for a very reasonable fare.  Did I mention before that these baskets are crafted with telephone wire originally found in South African scrap yards. Each is one-of-a-kind. The inventory on Basket of Africa's site is constantly changing. If you see something you love, go for it. It might not be there tomorrow.

Devaki Tunic $69 - You'll be styling in this blue tunic. Many hands touch each piece from start to finish. Fabric is first made using an ancient block printing technique. And then these tops are beautifully embroidered by skilled women. (Look at the pic to the right.) Sevya has been orchestrating amazing works in India, for you to enjoy here.

Starry Night Earrings $15 - I am convinced that Starry Night is the most loved painting in the whole wide world. And perhaps that's because it's predominantly blue. Or maybe it's just that Van Gogh was an amazing painter. Just the same, these earrings from Dunitz & Company make an incredible and affordable gift. As with all of Dunitz designs, these are made in Guatemala.

Styling In Blue Pin

So there you have it my 'crazy for blue' friends. Lots of choices in blue. in many different price points, from many places around our globe and all fair trade verified. Sounds like a win-win. If Dunitz & Company's experiences with color are any indication, you and your loved ones will totally dig any of these blue selections. -ND

Fair Trade Gifts Perfect for Mom

I was always told every day is Mother's Day.  And officially it's coming up on May 10th.  So, why not surprise mom with a fair trade verified gift.  You certainly can send her the gift of fair trade jewelry from Dunitz & Company. hint hint!  And/or my Fair Trade Federation colleagues offer all sorts of luscious goodies that will put a grin on mom's face.  Keep reading for some great gift ideas.

Let me know if you order any of the following for your lucky mother. For this post, I asked my FTF colleagues to suggest some of their best sellers perfect for moms.

Global Gifts - has several fabulous brick & mortar stores in Indiana and Ohio, and their staff lives and breathes fair trade. I of course, appreciate the work they do, so so much, because they sell Dunitz & Company jewelry in their stores.  Global Gifts prepared their own Mother's Day Guide which offers up several great gift ideas. And I'm thrilled they're offering our Embroidered Corte Flower Pins. I know first-hand, how moms will love adorning a scarf, hat or lapel with one of these. $20.00







Global Gifts - looking to send mom a card that will surely make her smile and help others too? Global Gifts sells several cards including this one, "Crushing it Mom" which benefits artisans from the Philippines who are survivors of sex trafficking. Definitely peruse the Global Gifts site to find other options. $6.00









HoonArts - Completely drool-worthy. HoonArts collaborates with the Seven Sisters artisan group of Kyrgyzstan to create these amazing scarves that combine silk with wool felted flowers. My favorite is the Red Poppies on Light Grey. Everyone will stop in their tracks when they see your mom wearing one of these. $115.00









Just Tea - If moms around the world are anything like me, they enjoy eating and drinking tasty things.  That leads me to believe that Just Tea's Little Berry Hibiscus will make a perfect gift. Caffeine-free and organic. Each tin comes with a hand carved spoon from Kenya. $15.00

Women's Peace Collection - Have you seen the Women's Peace Collection website before? If you haven't, it's time you do. And they carry Dunitz & Company's fair trade jewelry too. (Yes! This makes me very happy.) I can verify that these Long Almond Glass Earrings are great sellers. And in shades of purple, what would be more perfect for mom? Crafted in Guatemala. (If you search their site, you'll find some other shapes and colors too!) $20.00

Mayan Hands - I'm crazy for Mayan Hand's bags made from recycled plastic. If you didn't know what they were made from, you'd have no idea. Why not surprise mom with a colorful cosmetic bag that is also good for our planet? These are fully lined and have a zip closure. And they are crafted in one of my favorite places, Guatemala. $19.00 




Dunitz & Company - Our (yes, this is my company) Famous Painting earrings are some of our most popular. And we KNOW you love Starry Night and Van Gogh Irises. These are crafted in Guatemala and use stainless steel ear wires. $14.00




 
Maggie's Organics - If you don't know Maggie's, you should. They have some of the best socks. And now, they have a buy 1, get 1 deal going. Surprise mom with a bunch of fair trade socks.  10% of sales from their cotton Biodiversity Footies will also go to help the Center for Biological Diversity. Check out the cute dragonfly design too. $8.25






Dandarah - You'll be amazed by the beauty of Dandarah's offerings from inner cities and rural areas of Egypt. And for Mother's Day, I know your mom will squeal with joy over a 100% viscose Helyat Handwoven Scarf. Several rich colors are available. Ships from Canada with a price tag of approximately $42.00 USD.









Muichic - Muichic works with women in Colombia to create some really cool Tagua jewelry. Tagua - you know that stuff that looks and feels like ivory, but it isn't. I adore their Amma Tagua Necklace which is quite a fashion forward design in bright pink and orange. Maybe your mom will too. $55.00










Awamaki - Now here's a great idea for mom's who do yoga and meditate. (Covid19 has resulted in my own, more regular TM schedule!) Filled with lavender and flaxseed, Samay Meditation Eye Pillows are sure to allow mom to enjoy some peaceful downtime. Crafted in Peru. $20.00







Sevya - Let's talk about gorgeous! I know your mom would adore and enjoy wearing a Rajika Embroidered Shawl. Perfect for a cool evening just about anywhere. And perfect for making a big fashion statement.  Handmade in Northern India of a wool/viscose blend. $79.00










Goex  - Here's a novel idea. Perhaps you're a dad reading this. And you want to find the perfect thing for mom. How about Mommy & Me matching T-shirts?  One for Momma. One for youngster. You can see this set features an adorable illustration of a fox. These shirts are sewn in Haiti. $25.00 each.










Zambeezi - You probably know about Zambeezi's fabulous lip balms. But did you know they also offer Lavender Soap Bars?  These bars are crafted in Zambia, Africa of sunflower oil, organic beeswax and palm kernel oil which will make you feel soft and provide great lather. If your mother is anything like me, she'll adore this soap. I know I'm totally nuts for handmade soap. At this price, you should purchase a few bars! $6.00 








Mata Traders - Does your mom possess some Boho style? If she does, she might enjoy a comfie Montrose Tie Dress (with elephants)! Hand crafted in India. Click to read more. $82.00 











  
Passion Lilie - Passion Lilie calls this one "Mom's Favorite Scarf."  And I can see why. This blue floral hand block printed and light-weight cotton scarf feels a bit vintage and a bit ethnic at the same time. I love it. I think your mom will too. $22.00 

Kamibashi - of string doll fame has come up with "Mom of the Year" in many versions. Brown body. Tan body. Red hair. Grey hair. (that's me!). Super cute. $10.00 









Aid Through Trade - Well, you know I'm crazy for beads! Obviously. Aid Through Trade has been working with beaders in Nepal for just about as long as I've been working with beaders in Guatemala. Damian, the owner of Aid Through Trade has always been one of my favorite Fair Trade Federation colleagues. In fact, he's one of the people that wrote a recommendation on my behalf when I joined FTF.  Perfect for Mother's Day from Nepal are Mommy & Me roll-on bracelets. How about bright pink in the shade they call "princess"? $24.00





Sol Jewels - Sol Jewels is a recent member of FTF, working with women in India. They've suggested this coral colored bead bracelet would be perfect for moms. I agree. And it's super affordable too. $9.99

Catalyst Collections - is working with women in Iraq to bring you fairly made and beautiful jewelry.  Their Aya Bracelet combines dyed bamboo coral beads, dyed lapis lazuli beads, glass seed beads, and gold-plated beads. All finished off with a toggle clasp. $45.00 (matching necklace is available.) 







MZ Fair Trade - MZ's Stormy Skies Crossbody bag is sure make your mom the most stylish one in her crowd. MZ's purses are made using traditional Zapoetec designs and created in Oaxaca, Mexico. Their work is really quite stunning. $99.00










Seeds to Sew - And now that you've browsed the list, you'll need the perfect gift wrapping. Seeds to Sew's Enkiteng Bags are lovingly sewn in Kenya and are made with recycled and upcycled fabrics and ribbons. And they can be used over and over again. Why not try their assortment pack? Regularly $32.00, and on sale for Mother's Day!








These are tough times. Most of us are social distancing. There's a good change you and your mom are separated and won't be able to hug in person this year.  I suggest you send some virtual Zoom or FaceTime love and send her a fair trade verified gift.  She'll love being remembered.  And your gifts chosen from this list will result in you doing double and triple duty good. You'll be helping artisans in faraway lands that create these beautiful items by assuring they've earned living wages for their work. And you'll be helping all of us, (that includes me at Dunitz & Company) the fair traders that make bringing their work to North America possible. -ND

Fair Trade Gifts for Your Valentine, All Heart Shaped!

Last year I prepared a gift guide for Valentine's Day and it was one of my most read blog posts.  Several items I highlighted last year are no longer available. It seemed fitting to prepare an update for 2020. Please support Dunitz & Company and my Fair Trade Federation colleagues. We all work tirelessly to support and sustain artisans in far away places. And after we work to support them, we also have some of our own bills to pay.

Check out my twelve fun and affordable heart-shaped ideas that might be perfect for your special someone.

1. Love Hearts - Global Gifts offers Kenyan handcrafted soapstone hearts which make perfect paperweights and are designed by Venture Imports. I've worked with both of these companies for so many years, I can vouch for all the good they do. Highly recommended. $7.00

2. Heart Shaped Spoon - Is there a special cook in your life? Why not surprise them with a fair trade heart shaped spoon from Fair Trade Decor? Crafted in Kenya of olive wood. Two would be perfect in an salad bowl! $22.00










3. Crystal Heart Earrings - These are offered by Dunitz & Company (that's me!). A vintage design for the ages, handcrafted by women in Guatemala with Czech glass beads. Small and super cute. $12.00










4. Sweetheart Necklace - Perhaps this lovely rose-gold colored necklace will dazzle your honey. You'll find this necklace available from Humankind Fair Trade and designed by Starfish Project, both Fair Trade Federation members. Survivors of human trafficking create this beautiful design. $37.00 

5. Heart Mango Wood Pivot Box - Inspired by traditional Indian spice boxes, these hearts are sure to please. Offered by Zee Bee Market and designed by Matr Boomie, both Fair Trade Federation member companies. I think these are perfect for special someone who always likes the look and feel of antiques. $28.00






6.  Heart Note Card - Say it with the written word. These beautiful handmade in Vietnam cards are offered by Fair Trade Winds and are designed by Quilling Card. Again both Fair Trade Federation members. $9.95











7. You Make My Heart Flutter Card - I always suggest sending handwritten notes. They fill me with joy when I receive one. (And one like this would certainly put a smile on my face!) This fun note card is available from Global Gifts. They're made from recycled waste...in Rwanda. $6.00

 







8. Felted Monkey with Heart in Hands - How could you pass up on this adorable little monkey handing out a heart? This adorable gift, made in Guatemala is offered by Mayan Hands. $10.00












9. Heart Shaped Note Pad - Got a special doodler in your life? They're sure to appreciate this heart shaped box and paper from Mr. Ellie Pooh. Yes, the famous elephant poo paper! This paper from Sri Lanka is made from recycled paper and elephant dung. $20.00








10. Hammered Heart Bracelets - Eternal Threads is selling these good-looking bracelets. You can't lose. They were $25.00 and now their 50% off. And the purchase of these helps to support orphans and other vulnerable children in Swaziland. Now $12.50 







11. Heart Horn Earrings - Isn't it always fun to wear a little bit of turquoise with your horn? Your Valentine is sure to love these earrings from Wanderlust Jewelry. They're made by artisans in Peru. $9.00










12. Paper Bead Heart Ornament - These beautiful ornaments are created in Uganda and are offered by Ornaments 4 Orphans. They're available in several colors and I can picture them hanging on ribbon in windows everywhere. Show some love with one of these. $15.00









So there you have it. Eleven great gift ideas for Valentine's Day. It amazes me that so many people think fair trade gifts are expensive. After checking out this list, I'm sure you'll agree that not only are these offerings from Fair Trade Federation members fabulously adorable, they're seriously affordable. Please check us all out. Your purchase will definitely make a difference for people and planet. I can vouch for my fair trade colleagues. We all care deeply about the people we work with. -ND