Fair Trade Towns!

- Posted by to General

It was only 13 years ago that the first Fair Trade Town came into existence. Since 2000 it’s amazing to learn that there are now nearly 1,000 Fair Trade Towns across the world! For the past couple of years I had the chance to help out with the La Mesa, CA Fair Trade Towns Campaign. A campaign has to achieve five badges to become a Fair Trade Town and while it’s a lot of work it is also a ton of fun! Not to mention terribly rewarding, to reach out to the community and educate them on the importance and value of fair trade.

PicMonkey Collage FTT

Want to learn more about the Fair Trade Towns movement in the US and abroad? To learn more check out FairTradeTownsUSA.org & FairTradeTowns.org

Dreaming of Spring!

- Posted by to General

Spring is almost here! While I’m sure you’ve already spent several hours dreaming about warmer weather, here’s a little warm weather inspiration for your home :)

gift_guide_spring2

1. Orange Wool Felt Birdhouse How cute is this?!
2. Capiz & Palm Servers – Turquoise
3. Recycled Aluminum Flower Pot
4. Large Capiz Bowl Fiesta Citrus
5. Ceramic Talavera Wall Mirror – Mexico
6. Colorful Ruffled Half Apron I’ve had my eye on this for a loooong time! Love it!
7. Kyoto Olive Napkins (Set of 4)

This list of fair trade products should give you plenty of things to daydream about…I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming of adding to your home this spring! I hope you enjoy our “springspiration” & maybe even add a couple of these lovlies to your wishlist.

Fair Trade Brownie Heaven

- Posted by to Tasty Tuesday

Who doesn’t love brownies? Perhaps someone doesn’t love brownies, but I absolutely love delicious, gooey brownies! After having found a fair trade brownie recipe on Fair Trade USA‘s website I decided to make them and they were absolutely amazing. And my friends loved them too! Let’s just say they were definitely gooey and delicious.

Enjoy,
Dawn

ingredientsft_chocolate

yummy_brownie_heaven

Adventures in Thailand

- Posted by to General

Greetings and Happy Friday! Since I know we’re all starting to feel ready for Summer, I thought it would be fun to share some pics of my honeymoon in Thailand last week. One of the worlds’ most beautiful countries has lots to offer…

Like elephants and monkeys <3

Elephant for 7 HopesMonkeys for 7 HopesWhen we were planning our honeymoon, we wanted something a little different. We decided on adventure, which is what we got! Our decision took us from the islands:
Koh Samui for 7 HopesAo Nang for 7 Hopes 2James Bond for 7 HopesAo Nang for 7 HopesBoats for 7 HopesTo the Andaman Sea…
Long Tail Boat for 7 HopesMaya Bay for 7 HopesPhi Phi for 7 Hopes

To the “typical” Thai honeymoon experience…
Beach Bar for 7 HopesMassage for 7 HopesTo the busy streets and rich culture of Bangkok.

7 Hopes Wat ArunBangkok Floating Market for 7 HopesBoxer and me for 7 HopesLebua for 7 HopesFloating Market for 7 HopesOur trip was only 10 days, but it was a journey. One of exciting new experiences, and one that admittedly stretched me beyond my comfort zone. The language barrier was difficult, but the warm and inviting manner of the friendly Thai people reminded me that a smile is a smile in any language.
Phuket Sunrise for 7 HopesHere’s to the upcoming season of warmth and sunrises and remembering that love makes the world go ’round!

XO,

Casey

Fair Trade Fashion

- Posted by to General

Sseko Sandals

It’s Fashion Week in New York! I find many of the photos from the runway glamorous
and exciting. The designers are certainly talented. The one thing I don’t see, or haven’t
seen yet, is an emphasis on ethical fashion. That’s where fair trade can come in.

Seven Hopes United has made a commitment to purchasing fair trade fashion that is ethically
and consciously made. The beautiful items you’ll find at www.sevenhopesunited.com were made
in safe environments, and the artisans that made them earned a living wage. Choose
from gorgeous scarves, unique handbags and hair accessories, lovely jewelry and
fun sandals. And know that the money you spend at Seven Hopes United is not only
an investment in high quality fair trade products it is also an investment in the lives of those that made these great items.Fair Trade Scarves

Fair Trade Necklaces