Going Local Launch and Upcoming Events

Please help me support former CARBON designers, Calamarie, Diamantina, and Kim Schalk, launch their collective, Going Local.  Stop by their Grand Opening (this Friday through Sunday) to shop their collection and congratulate them on their admirable endeavor! Location: 109 S. King Street (upstairs), Leesburg, VA.  11 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Like their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/goinglocaldesign

Next Saturday, June 9th, I am teaming up with local artist Jan Marfyak to sell eco-wares and art at the Fenton Street Market from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

And don't forget, Dress Responsibly Forum produced by Fashion Fights Poverty next Friday, June 8th at Artisphere.  Yours truly will be moderating this dynamic panel.

Greening Mom on Her Day

Spring ushers in a celebratory season beginning with two very important lovely ladies: Mother Earth and Mom.  Both equally deserve praise and attention for their unconditional love and generous heart.  For the latter, we shower her with priceless gems such as a hug, a phone call or remembrance, to treasures made with love. 

Recycling the notion that flowers, accessories, and home décor warms her heart on her special day, here are a few green versions both she and Mother Nature can appreciate.

Green Love

Pamper her to all-natural, cruelty-free Herban Lifestyle bath and beauty products.  Herbologist Mary Kearns concocts each item made to order.

Roses don’t necessarily come in the flower variety.  Miami-based jewelry designer Catalina Lemaitre works with Colombia artisans to create vibrant accessories handmade from natural and reclaimed materials such as orange peel and coffee grounds.  Shop Calamarie.

Escama Studio continues to refine its design aesthetic with this stunning Metallic Clutch ($150, sold through Virtuarte).  Local artisans fasten post-consumer recycled aluminum pulltabs with intricate weaving techniques. Simply divine!

Wrap her in a fair trade, hand-print scarf by A Peace Treaty ($210 - $160).

TOMS canvas shoes keep her going all day!  Treat her to the Toms Love Moms special edition and another mom a world away receives a pair, too. ($54)

Bring India to her through embroidered peacock pillows ($45 each) impeccably handmade by Indian artisans (sold through SERVV, a fair trade non-profit).

Travel to the rainforest virtually to observe how chimpanzees nurture their own in Chimpanzee by Disney.  Ticket sales benefit the Jane Goodall Foundation.