People & Products
Generally, when Americans shop we are only concerned about the product; what we get. With fair trade we expand our horizon to look at the bigger picture of where something comes from, who made it and how it was produced.
Of course, the product is the end point at which we turn over something at our store to you the consumer. So, these end products must be of value, be it useful or beautiful. We do our best to provide both. In this age of mass over-consumption we have to look closely and honestly at what we bring in. There is much out there of great beauty and art for art’s sake is so important to a healthy, balanced society. What we get most excited about are the items that incorporate beauty with function; hand-carved twisted olive wood salad servers, gorgeous cotton and hemp clothing, Divine Chocolates packaged in exquisite wrappers with traditional West African Adinkra designs, children’s toys that are simple and full of color.
Part of the beauty and incalculable historical value of fairly traded products is that they are generally handcrafted using techniques passed through generations. Providing an outlet for these goods allows for indigenous culture and identity to be honored and preserved. That doesn’t happen in a sweatshop.
As we get to know our business and customers better we will continue evolve and try new products. These are the main categories of items we currently carry:
The most important of all of this are the people who are most impacted by our purchases, the artisans. Buying fair trade is truly one of the most simple, easy acts we can choose daily that improve people’s lives dramatically. The producers of fair trade products become able to afford more than food and shelter; schools and health care facilities are being built and improved, bikes are given to provide a way to school and work, and communities are strengthened. People in war zones can experience some stability despite their surroundings because they feel the real confidence, both financial and moral, that others are supporting their work. Families are able to stay together.
Our actions change individuals and communities in deep and sustainable ways. These good things are happening because you buy fairly traded goods! It is nothing less than AWESOME!
Of course, the product is the end point at which we turn over something at our store to you the consumer. So, these end products must be of value, be it useful or beautiful. We do our best to provide both. In this age of mass over-consumption we have to look closely and honestly at what we bring in. There is much out there of great beauty and art for art’s sake is so important to a healthy, balanced society. What we get most excited about are the items that incorporate beauty with function; hand-carved twisted olive wood salad servers, gorgeous cotton and hemp clothing, Divine Chocolates packaged in exquisite wrappers with traditional West African Adinkra designs, children’s toys that are simple and full of color.
Part of the beauty and incalculable historical value of fairly traded products is that they are generally handcrafted using techniques passed through generations. Providing an outlet for these goods allows for indigenous culture and identity to be honored and preserved. That doesn’t happen in a sweatshop.
As we get to know our business and customers better we will continue evolve and try new products. These are the main categories of items we currently carry:
- CLOTHING - Natural fiber, sweatshop-free, organic when available
- JEWELRY - Sterling, gemstone and other sustainable natural materials
- BODY CARE - Products using sustainable practices and pure ingredients
- INSTRUMENTS – Djembes, other drums, hand percussion for all ages and abilities
- MUSIC - World & local
- FOOD - Coffee, tea, chocolate & olive oil
- BASKETS – Sturdy & functional
- BAGS - For many purposes, wallets, coin purses
- CERAMICS & LINENS - Kitchen & table
- CHILDREN’S - Books, music & simple toys
- BOOKS – Peace, social justice & environmental sustainability
- JOURNALS & CARDS – Handmade paper, many fiber alternatives to new trees
- MAPS - Alternatives to the traditional Mercator map
- STICKERS & BUTTONS – With a message of peace & world spiritual traditions
- PEACE FLAGS – Inclusive messages of peace
- HOUSEWARES - Wall art & small furniture
- INCENSE – Natural resins & essential oils
- SCARVES, HATS, MITTENS & GLOVES – To suit the season
- PET ITEMS – collars & leashes for our furry friends
- …and other useful items too vast to list!
The most important of all of this are the people who are most impacted by our purchases, the artisans. Buying fair trade is truly one of the most simple, easy acts we can choose daily that improve people’s lives dramatically. The producers of fair trade products become able to afford more than food and shelter; schools and health care facilities are being built and improved, bikes are given to provide a way to school and work, and communities are strengthened. People in war zones can experience some stability despite their surroundings because they feel the real confidence, both financial and moral, that others are supporting their work. Families are able to stay together. Our actions change individuals and communities in deep and sustainable ways. These good things are happening because you buy fairly traded goods! It is nothing less than AWESOME!
| info@smallplanetfairtrade.com |