“Shopping at Souks du Monde means empowering the artisans, supporting their craft, and investing in their community. “
Lise is a woman living the dream. Traveling around the world with her husband, she creates relationships with local artisans along the way, sourcing rugs + textiles for her online shoppe, Souks du Monde. Keep scrolling to see how you can intentionally design your own space with these pieces, and learn more about her mission, as well as a special discount code 😉
At this point, it’s no secret how much I love bohemian, globally inspired design. There’s something about the texture and colors that can define a room and make it feel warm and inviting. Two things I like just as much- 1. sustainability and 2. fair trade. For those of you who are not familiar with this term, fair trade is essentially trading goods for fair and ethical pay (which sounds like something that should have to go without saying). So, I was beyond excited when Lise reached out and introduced me to her ethical, eco-conscious brand.
Authentic + One of a Kind
These rugs have been a ‘trend’ for a couple of years now, but with so many imitations, it took away from the real beauty and artistry behind this long tradition. What I love most about these pieces, is the quality and organic, individuality of each rug. Lise works with women of the Berber tribes in the Atlas mountains, where this tradition is passed down from generation to generation, mother to daughter (you can read more about this here). Each piece is truly a work of art.
Empowering
There is something comforting to me, knowing that there are actual people, creating what I’m putting into my home; that their love and energy is now part of my life. Investing in their craft = investing in their community. Every time they sell their art, they are given financial independence and an opportunity to pass on their traditional craft.
These women are also able to empower themselves, support their families, and contribute to their community. Each purchase provides opportunity for a brighter future, and you get a really cool piece of art for your home, win win.
Sustainable
These rugs are 100% natural wool, and all of the materials are sustainably sourced and eco friendly. They are also naturally dyed, and the black and white Beni Ourains use no dye at all! They rely solely on the natural colors of the sheeps’ wool, to create the cream colored base and black diamonds #ilovenature, and they are never bleached, giving a really beautiful, creamy color. These practices are not only better for the earth, but also for our well being.
As a brand, they continue to strive in lowering their eco footprint as well. Many rugs and several of the pillows are created from the recycled wool of damaged rugs and blankets, which would otherwise be thrown away. Giving new life to an already existing piece. A quality rug (or piece of furniture) will stand the test of time, so there is no need to replace and create additional waste in a short period of time.
Intentional
Souks du Monde also has an NGO partnership with Wings of Hope Marrakech . This organization strives to provide opportunities that improve living conditions, break the cycle of poverty, and promote education. A percentage of each purchase, in addition to the artisan’s wage, goes back to the community, where schools are built, wells are constructed, essential medical care is provided, and income is generated by these fair trade sales.
We believe it is our responsibility as citizens of the world to give back.
Lise works with a network of artisans and can help find you the perfect rug based on the color, style and size that you are looking for. Their artisans can also weave a rug to your specifics if you can’t find what you are looking for! You can use this link to get 20% off all rugs with code LOVELYLOCALE. Thank you, Lise!!
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