Gift Guide: For The Empowered Creative

The Mata wish lists keep on coming – this time from our Design team! Kristin and Justine spend their days perfecting new prints and designing fresh jewelry styles, and are all about creativity. They run a tight ship to make sure collections are given proper time to develop. Regular visits with producer artisans in India and Nepal give them firsthand appreciation for the impact a stable source of income can have on families in marginalized communities. Kristin and Justine mix a spirit of creativity with the strength of social justice on their wish lists this season.

Kristin: 

Serrv – Blue and Teal Baskets

“I’ve been eyeing these beautifully crafted baskets for YEARS. They are made by artisans in Ghana and a perfect way to spruce up Zoey’s (my pup – who’s not really a pup but is 6) toy bin or to fill with blankets to cozy up next to the couch.”

Bombas – Holiday Socks

“Yikes – you know you’re getting older when socks are on your wishlist. And OKAY, these must be magic for the price… but I can’t deny, I love me a good pair of socks.  This company is great because for every pair you purchase, they donate a pair to someone in need!”

Nappa Dori – Ikat Organizer

“Justine and I stumbled across this company on a recent India trip and we walked out with matching purses that day. Eagerly awaiting my next trip back, so I can buy the entire store. I would love this little organizer for all my travel essentials!”

Justine:

Indego Africa – Marrakech Basket

“This is the second time I’ve included a basket on my wish list. (Nobody got the hint the first time!) I like this one in particular because it has that Millennial Pink. I love color trends.”

Laurie Melia Ceramics – Large Woman in Prayer

“2017 has been a big year for us ladies. Shout out to the Women’s March, #metoo, and Time’s Person of the Year to name just a few milestones.) So I relate to this little ceramic lady totem’s vibe – strong, confident, cosmic, feminist woman of color.”

The Pin Project – The Pin

“The refugee crisis is daunting, so I like the Pin Project’s approach of providing training, employment, and income. They’re currently only on Kickstarter, and pins go for $32. But there’s also a pledge of $2500 that includes a four-day trip to a production unit… anybody?”