For a while now, I have been discovering and following on social media Romanian creators, artists, artisans, and small businesses.
And I have been in complete awe.
Their workmanship. Their creativity. The unique Romanian sensibility so well portrayed in their work. Their dedication to their craft and the traditional motifs and symbols of our folklore and cultural heritage. Their ethos to provide handmade, outstanding quality items, delivered with care and through sustainable practices.
This emergence of fellow Romanians that are building successful and authentic brands and businesses whilst honoring their heritage, makes my heart swell.
Therefore, I want EVERYONE to know about them.
When I think about our past, our creative and unique voices having been oppressed and diminished during those 42 years of communism and authoritarian dictatorship then, in the 90s and 2000s, a slow and painful re-birth of our individual Romanian spirit and the forging of a new Romanian identity, I feel so much hope and joy seeing these creative ventures taking root and flourishing.
I think it is incredibly important to highlight and support them.
Therefore, this year’s Holiday Gift Guide will strictly focus on products and services from Romanian creators and businesses.
We will have quite a variety of items from home decor, ceramics, ethical and sustainable clothing items and underwear, rugs and blankets, to Christmas decor and cards.
All objects made form pure, raw materials like wool, linen, leather, copper and clay; from hands that weave and knit and award-winning visual artists; using techniques perfected over hundreds of years; businesses that give back and directly support their artisans.
If you decide to gift this year, I encourage you to discover these brands, to bookmark and follow, support and spread the word about them.
This year, make it special and personal. Shop less but more mindfully. Buy something that has been shaped by human hands with love and care, something perfectly imperfect – attributes that mass produced objects can never give you.
More than ever, small and emerging businesses need our help.
Deliberately choose to support them and vote with your wallet for a more fair, equitable and kind world where creative small businesses can thrive and flourish.
See you Wednesday!
Much love,
Roxi
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