If you haven’t seen these Kantha bags made in India, you must. They are made using recycled quilts and saris. Each is unique, making the bag you buy, yours and only yours. We have two in our home. My daughters use the bag when they are packing up for a sleepover. I love using the bag when I have a busy day ahead (which translates to everyday!). I stuff in returns, the fruit I buy at the market, some water, an ipod, and a  pair of sneakers in case there’s time for a run…

This past weekend I was visiting Oonae (one of our tee shirt designers) on Nantucket and I used my Kantha bag to store my clothing - it’s the perfect size for a two night stay.

My eyes have  opened to the plight of the Indian women creating these bags.  This craft and opportunity to work translates into an opportunity for an education and a life.  I hope that you will look at these bags for their beauty and utility, but also for the goodness and possibilities they represent for the women who lovingly and gratefully create them. 

Wear it well, Beth

Good Morning!

I know I have been neglecting my blogging duties lately, but I must confess that I lost my inspiration.  I need to hear your comments - they motivate me.  I always prefer to talk with people instead of to people.  So, when you are able, please leave a comment.

As I have said in the past, I love a good party.  There is just something nice about blocking off some time to do nothing more than celebrate with friends and eat really good cake.  As a mother, I like to use parties as a way of making my girls aware of other people around the world that could use a little goodwill.

 Last year, my little ladies decided they wanted gifts of their own, but they also wanted to raise some money for CHICAS - an organization that supports the education of young women in Guatelmala.  I had photos of the young women in the group on the table to see.  the girls made the “chicas” cards and signed their names.  I think we raised close to $100.00 for the group!  

Good Day!

Last night I attended a graduate class in global gender politics.   I learned some things that I’d like to share with you.  

1. 1/3,  2/3 worlds.  1/3 represents the developed world. 2/3 is developing world. 

2. Women are exploited more often than men in terms of cheap labor and women don’t earn as much as men.

3. Educated women in developing countries work in informal sectors (like selling goods in markets & not using their education) because the work they would do as professional with an education don’t pay as well.  Where is the incentive then for their daughters to get an education?  This breaks my heart.

4. Transnational corporations continue to move around the world looking for the cheapest labor.  What happens?  Workers are exploited, natural resources are often exploited and us?  We get products cheaper and cheaper and cheaper.  At some point very soon, we’ll be paying a high price.  We should make changes now.

I urge you, readers, to please consider where and by whom the products you buy are made.   You’re doing a good thing for yourself and the world by seeking out and buying products that are made fairly.  Please do your best.

Beth

Now that the kids are back to school, birthday invitations are going to start streaming in.  Party with Heart has a new collection of products on the way!  We expect to launch it by mid-October.  There are so many new things that all ages will enjoy.  And the best part is, they are gifts that are meaningful.  

I love meeting designers and talking with them about their talents and the ways they want to make connections with people through their craft.  I should also mention that there are many good looking gifts out there that aren’t so nice or good to people. 

I recently saw a stunning line of jewelry.  When I began talking with the importer, she couldn’t honestly answer my questions.  I asked who made them.  She replied, “women in Pakistan.”  I asked if the products were fair trade, she said “no”.  I asked if the women are a part of a cooperative that earns honest wages for their work.  She replied, “they’re paid just fine.”  With that comment, I thanked her and moved on.  My daughter asked me why I didn’t buy the jewelry and I said, “because mommy only works with people that care for other people.”  She smiled. 

The next time you buy, buy with some thought & compassion.  It’s the best gift you can give and receive.

Thanks for reading,

Beth