For Mother’s Day, wouldn’t it be nice to find Mother’s Day gifts that support other women, many of them also mothers, in their quest towards economic stability? There are many great organizations that promote fair-trade and eco-friendly practices and employ women artisans and tradespeople across the globe, helping to lift them and their communities out of poverty. Here are just a few:
(A little confession is in order — I started shopping while researching this post! Too many beautiful things!)
Raven & Lily
Raven & Lily is creating fair trade fashion, accessories & home furnishings, and employing more than 1500 at-risk women in 10 countries. This beautiful and soft, hand-loomed throw blanket is made in Morocco ($98). 10% of the project supports an after-school program to encourage girls to continue their education.
My purchase – these silk pillow covers!
My living room pillows are looking a little thread-bare. (I’m not naming any names, but I think someone has been picking at them!) With these eco-dyed covers, made in Malaysia, I can still use the existing pillows but get a fresh, new look. And they were on sale!
Mata Traders
Mata Traders produces fair trade clothing and accessories made in India and Nepal helping to lift families out of poverty. They have some fabulous dresses and tops in what they call a “Vintage-inspired bohemian” style. This one was one of my faves, the Delia Wrap dress ($86):
They also sell wonderful scarves, bags, headbands and other accessories.
Mujus
Mujus sells eco-friendly jewelry made from tagua seeds from the Amazon rainforest, handcrafted by women artisans in Ecuador and Peru. I have seen this jewelry in person and it is stunning, and surprising lightweight. I was just telling my husband I could use some longer earrings, and these Patrisse Earrings ($58) would certainly work:
Their statement necklaces make a bold impression but won’t weigh you down.
Global Girlfriend
Global Girlfriend sells fair trade, women-made apparel, accessories and gifts from over 30 countries, including the US. Comfy loungewear is always a nice gift, and these pajamas from Sudara ($54) are made by women in India who are at high risk of sex-slavery.
If luscious bath and body products are Mom’s thing, they have a great travel set that includes lotion, shave gel, and lip balm, all in TSA-approved sizes, for $24. It’s produced by Thistle Farms in Nashville, TN, a residential facility helping at-risk women. There is also an extensive collection of beautiful soaps and candles.
Global Good Partners
Global Good Partners is a not-for profit social enterprise, providing sustainable jobs for women in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This is another site loaded with great gift ideas. This Stripe Bolga Tote ($75) caught my eye and would be great for the summer. I do need a new beach bag! They also have great journals and other gift items.
I really need to wrap this up because I am this close to buying this tote! So tell me, what are you planning on giving — or getting — this Mother’s Day. Please leave a comment below and let us know! And don’t forget the wrapping — we have some great fabric gift bags that are just perfect for your gift!
