Bishwas and Helping Hands

"My company always prioritised women from uneducated, unskillful and lower caste backgrounds. Giving them employment to enable them to be financially independent and the ability to better support their families. I ensure there is enough work for them on a daily basis so they maintain a steady stream of income. However they have a flexible schedule. After hiring, I provided free training to each employee and then work". 

We were lucky enough to be introduced to our Nepalese partner Bishwas through a mutual friend here in Aotearoa. The inspiring Bishwas is a man with a mission to provide training and work for Nepalese Woman in small villages, who otherwise would not have access to a living wage income. Bishwas works hard to provide woman living remotely and in his village with work that fits into their lifestyle, prioritising culture and tradition before work and profit. Bishwas provides his workers with training first, and then sewing and felting work. All of our throws, hemp products, and NZ wool items are made by these talented artisans.

Pera Family

A Turkish company creating ethically made, high-quality throws. Each piece is crafted with care, combining traditional Turkish weaving techniques with modern, sustainable practices. The throws are made using natural materials such as organic cotton, linen and hemp, sourced responsibly, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Their beautiful designs reflect a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary style, making them a perfect addition to any home.

Azdene 

While Nadia was staying in an Airbnb in Essaouria she was lucky enough to be introduced to Azdene, a local entrepreneur passionate about local craft and fair trade practices. Together with Azdene and his team, Husk and Honey was able to curate a collection of consciously made pom pom blankets (famous in Morocco) and matching cushions, as well as Wool cushions that are made out of repurposed rugs, above Azdene's store (a project created by the team to reuse rugs and create more affordable products for locals and tourists who want to support the local craft). All blanket sand cushion covers are beautifully crafted. The cotton blankets are handwoven or hand-knotted from natural fibres like cotton or wool, making them both soft and durable. Moroccan textiles, in general, are known for their unique designs that blend traditional Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences. Whilst traditionally made in the Atlas Mountains, these cushions are now also made in Safi. Made by the local Berber men (as it takes quite a bit of strength to use the cotton and wool foot looms) - these talented artisans all run there own businesses / are self employed and sell independently to stores around Morocco, allowing them to control the price they sell at and there working conditions. 

Cactus Silk Cushion Covers

Another lovely connection Nadia made in Morocco was through a bunch of young men working for an interior company, working to showcase Moroccos beautiful crafted products, with a commitment to fair trade principles. When they showed us their Sabra Silk cushion range - we really fell in love!

"We work directly with artisans, eliminating intermediaries to ensure that the true value of their craftsmanship is recognised and rewarded fairly. This direct collaboration not only guarantees the highest quality but also ensures that each artisan receives fair compensation for their work. Our artisans pour their heart and soul into their work, using techniques passed down through generations. Their dedication to quality and authenticity is evident in every stitch, every pattern, and every detail. Through shopping local, you are supporting sustainable businesses that value and preserves traditional crafts, whilst being provided with economic opportunities."