Wooden Puzzle Box from Topanien
Valentine’s Day is sneaking up on us again; hard to believe-wasn’t it just Christmas?  Hey, I am here to assure you there is no need to stress out about this. Valentines Day gifts do not have to be extravagant, expensive, or complicated. The perfect gift should be special, personal and as unique as the person you have designated to be your cherished Valentine. One way to find such a unique piece is to seek Fair Trade items. Products that are imported using Fair Trade practices are usually one of a kind, handmade high quality and will be a gift your Valentine will adore.
Fair Trade is a method of conducting international business with the pledge to follow high ethical standards – i.e. a fair wage for a quality product. In addition, supporting Fair Trade organizations are also a way to ensure money goes back to the community the product came from. Many businesses donate a portion of the proceeds to build better schools, homes, and other crucial infrastructure projects depending on the needs of the community. Fair Trade organizations are committed to respecting the cultural identity of their producers and educating the consumers. It is not about charity; it is about implementing a better method of exchange empower the artisans and create positive change in their communities.
Here are some Fair Trade idea favorites to get you started:
From Topanien Global Gifts
Topanien Global Gifts, located in Oregon, seeks fairly traded products to offer their customers. They work with importers who ensure that the artisans earn a living wage and work under humane conditions. Here are some cool Valentine finds from their online store
For Cat Lovers- Home Decor Pillow handcrafted in India
For Art Lovers- The Kiss” Wall Hanging from India
For All Lovers- Heart Shaped Wooden Puzzle Box from Poland
From other locations-
For the Fashion Lover-
Zulugrass Valentine Beaded Strand from the Maasai Women in Kenya
Zulugrass Valentine Red Necklace from The Leakey Collection
For the Candy Lover- Fair Trade & Organic Valentines Day Chocolate
Organic Fair Trade Chocolate
For the Kitchen Lover
Kahero Farm Reclaimed Olive Wood Salt Cellar & Spoon Set from Kenya
Kahero Farm Reclaimed Olive Wood Salt Cellar & Spoon Set from Organic Bug
For the Cool Home Decor Lover
Unique Eco Champali Sculpture from Kenya
UniquEco Flip Flop Animal Sculpture from Organic Bug
