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A confession: I’m a bit of an early shopper when it comes to the holidays. Since we started the process of adopting Beauty in 2006 and every subsequent year, I have tried to incorporate some sort of Guatemalan item into my family’s gift-giving repertoire. Last year, the item of choice for the season was an ornamental tin can angel. We bought several sets (they’re sold four pieces in a set) and gifted them (individually) to our family and friends. At less than $10.00 each, it was a great, meaningful gift–thoroughly appreciated by those who love Guatemala as much as we do.
So, where else can you locate some amazing Guatemalan finds? Commercially speaking (for those who prefer to purchase items from a well known merchant), Uncommon Goods offers up three different beautiful Beaded Hummingbirds, handmade in Guatemala. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. I’ve always been quite partial to Mayan Traditions, but for the last week or so, it’s been listed as “down for inventory”. But no worries! There are other online shopping venues to secure your gifts well before the holiday season truly starts.
UPAVIM Crafts is a Guatemalan fair trade crafts co-operative dedicated to improving the lives of impoverished women, their families and their community. They offer a wide variety of fairly priced Guatemalan items and shipping is always $5 flat if you live in the United States. Colores del Pueblo is another store I greatly appreciate. Part of the statement on their page says, “Our police of paying a fair price for the crafts gives people an alternative to leaving their homes, going to a big city, living in a shanty town, and working in a sweat shop”; in fact, they offer an excellent explanation regarding The Truth About Guatemalan Crafts. As you can tell, there is no shortage of online shops offering some amazing Guatemalan goods. Please remember, though, it’s important to be certain that you choose fair trade items whenever possible.
Additionally (and this is a two part message, might I add!), Guatadopt is moving forth with their 2010 calendar! This calendar makes a fantastic gift, but it’s also a chance for you to submit a photo of your gorgeous Guatemalan child for inclusion. Be forewarned that the window for photo submissions is a bit short (October 20-November 2) so make sure you have your favorite photo (or two!) lined up for submission. The calendars should be arrive just in time for holiday gifting.
Lastly, why not consider giving charitable donations in the name of your recipients? Global Giving offers a host of excellent charities (it will come as no surprise that several of my personal favorites center on charitable work in Guatemala) and Mayan Families is another excellent site that serves the children (and families) of Guatemala.
(Please note: the online shopping venues suggested are just some of my personal favorites; I was not compensated in any way for suggesting the aforementioned sites. This post was inspired by a trip to my local grocery store in which the Halloween section was greatly overshadowed by the massive winter/Christmas displays. And yes, it’s only the middle of October.)
