Undoubtedly registering for wedding gifts is one of the most fun parts of the whole planning process. It is a great way to relieve a little stress and just make a crazy wishlist of household items. However with many couples co-habitating long before they say “I Do” registries are also one of the most common ways couples decide to give back through their big day. Charity registries are building in popularity as couples no longer have a need for new toasters and a fancy set of china. But for those couples that still do need to stock their cupboards and linen closets there is an option that is the best of both worlds. Seven Hopes United is a virtual mall for fair trade items that improve the lives of people all over the world. Not only are the items handmade by artisans in varying countries which gives them a dignified and substantial way to earn a living but Seven Hopes United also gives a portion of sales back to the communities that the goods are made in. The biggest bonus in my eyes other than giving back is that you get unique, handmade items that are truly a work of art in themselves.
I asked Ashley, the founder of Seven Hopes United or as she calls herself, the Co-Dreamer, about the concept, why she wanted to do it, and what fair trade means to people around the world and this is what she had to say:
One of the most exciting things for us as a Company and for our customers is how their fair trade gifts are making a difference around the world. It is wonderful to speak with our artisans, to hear their stories of how the fair trade market has given them hope, brought them out of poverty, and enabled them to support themselves and their families. All of Seven Hopes United products are produced by Fair Trade Federation members, which means the artisans are paid a fair wage. Just by registering with Seven Hopes United, registrants are able to raise charitable contributions that are invested in community development initiatives throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Ten percent of Seven Hopes United’s net profits are donated back into artisan communities to help provide clean water, schools, and health care to thousands of residents who would otherwise be unable to access these basic necessities.
You can find a lot of information regarding our organization and what we do on our website. Please visit the What is Fair Trade? page to learn more about how fair trade is changing lives, and our About Us page to learn a bit more about our commitments as a Fair Trade Company, the meaning of our name, our logo, etc.
Pretty awesome don’t you think? In addition to household items they also have gorgeous jewelry and even handbags so it is great for just everyday gift giving or just a little retail therapy! By registering for gifts that give back not only will you be making an impact on other people’s lives but you will also be exposing your friends and family to this great cause!
Thank you so much Ashley for sharing a little about Seven Hopes United!
*All photos are from the Seven Hopes United website.
Thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful write up about our Fair Trade Gift Registry on your blog!! We are truly blessed.
This is awesome, Alicia. I think if you can get a gift for a couple and help another somewhere in the world, it’s a win-win.
I love Seven Hopes, I have purchased several gifts from them and they are wonderful. And best part it becomes two gifts, one for the individual I’m giving it to and the one Seven Hopes helps to support.
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