We live in a sad, scary world. There is no getting around that. Slavery is at an all time high. Like, in all of history, all time high! I see the numbers and it just all feels so overwhelming. Where do you even start? How can you even make a dent? I know that as a Christian I am called to serve the poor, the orphans and the widows. I want to do that! But where to start?
I am a firm believer in baby steps. Yes, sometimes people can dive in and make sweeping, life changing steps, but if we all just start moving in a better direction, change will come. There are a lot of different places we can start. Today, I'm focusing on what we wear.
I wish I could move to an entirely ethically sourced wardrobe for my family. We are taking baby steps, but it just doesn't fit into our budget (yet!). However, I try to shop ethically when I can, and I get really excited when I find great companies doing great things at a great price point! I've rounded up 4 of my favorites for you, and you get to save on all of them!
Better Life Bags
This is one of my very favorite companies out there, I "met" Rebecca in a blogging group on Facebook years ago, back when BLB was a little Etsy shop. Even then she had big dreams! She started out by donating micro loans through Kiva, then stepped out into hiring local women in her Detroit neighborhood. She trained them, rented them sewing machines, and got them going. Now they have their very own brick and mortar workshop, and she is able to provide jobs to women that otherwise might not be able to help provide for their families. It is amazing to see how far they have come! You can learn all about Rebecca and her mission {HERE}. Their online store has a ready-to-ship section, and a design your own page! So much fun!
I have a Molly, and I love her! I use her constantly! She is still in great shape, and she's even considered "vintage" in BLB terms. They have made so many design improvements since I got her that your bags will be even better than mine!
Run on over and get signed up for their newsletter. You'll get pretty things in your inbox, and a coupon code!!
Wildly Co.
Wildly Co is relatively new to the ethical goods arena. The company was started by Hayley of The Tiny Twig (co-founder of Influence Network) and her husband, because they wanted to provide families with clothes they could feel good about buying for their kids. You can read all about them (and their 4 boys) {HERE}. I love that their clothes are simple, easy to pair, and tough! I also love that a lot of pieces work for girls and boys, so tshirts that Abbey gets can easily pass down to Owen.
Imagine Goods
This company is brand new to me and I have fallen in LOVE! I "met" Michelle, the co-owner, in a book release group that we are a part of (more on that later!). She and her business partner Aiyanna have created something amazing with Imagine Goods. They work with local artisans in Cambodia to create all of their products, and oh my goodness are those products beautiful! They have everything from apparel to home goods. Everything has this incredible retro feel to it, and I pretty much want all of it in my closet. A Kate dress is at the top of my list, and Matt wants a skinny tie! Beautiful things that are helping keep people out of slavery? Yes, please.
These ladies have a coupon for you, too! Use the code "Imagine A Story" for 10% off everything in the Carousel Collection. But shop fast, it only lasts through the 18th!
Trades of Hope
This was another new one to me. This company also partners with local artisans in 9 countries around the world, giving them the opportunity to provide for their family in safe ways. Trades of Hope is also a direct sales company, like Thirty One, or Beachbody so they are also helping women here in the states provide for their families! Women helping women, helping women...It doesn't get any better than that! You can read their story {HERE}
Now for the fun part...I'm hosting a Trades of Hope party! And even better, anyone who makes a purchase through my link between now and April 30th will be entered into a drawing for a free bracelet of their choice! Woohoo for free pretties! The shopping is open now, but if you are interested in learning more about the company and spending time in a more "party" atmosphere, we will also be holding a live party on Facebook toward the end of the month. If you would like an invite, shoot me a message or leave a comment! I would love to have you!
Changing the world is hard, guys, I get it. These companies are working hard, and you can help them without breaking the bank. That's a win for everyone.
Do you have a favorite ethical company that didn't make my list?
How do you take baby steps toward better purchases?
Love your story today!
Heather
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