Unique retailer offers fairly traded crafts, rugs and food
Fair Trade retailer Ten Thousand Villages is excited to announce an open house on Friday, July 27th to celebrate the move of its Oak Bay store to 1009 Government Street.
“We look forward to becoming a vital part of the Government Street community and are thrilled that Victoria celebrates local artisans while also opening its doors to the work of others from around the world,” says Maria Lyons, manager of the new location.
For more than 65 years, Ten Thousand Villages has been working directly with artisans and food growers in developing countries, providing an important market for their handicrafts in North America. From coffee and chocolate to home decor and personal accessories, all products are handmade and hand grown. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are always ready to share stories and information about the products and the artisans who made them. The well-established Fair Trade organization has 45 stores across Canada, eight located in British Colombia.
The Government Street store’s Rug Room houses more than 50 luxurious hand-knotted Pakistani rugs. From intricate florals to hand-spun natural dye wool tribals, every rug has been designed and hand-knotted by highly skilled and fairly paid adults.
“When artisans know they are fairly paid for every knot they tie, they are empowered to focus on the fine details of intricate rugs that will last for generations,” says Lyons.
For more information about Ten Thousand Villages communities events and partnerships, the rug program or the gift registry, please contact Maria Lyons or visit www.TenThousandVillages.ca.
