Ten Thousand Villages

I shopped at their Atlanta store as well as online. Unfortunately the stored closed, but their online presence is still around. They have jewellery, textiles, pottery, toys, Christmas items, alabaster, lamps, coffee, tea, spices, etc. Shipping is often free. I buy from them in part because the items are so beautifully made as well as practicle. The jewellery prices are really great. Knowing that the profits go to the artisans - and that they are paid a fair price - is fantastic.

This site is amazing for global artisans and for one of a kind, high quality gifts. I would recommend this for those looking to help remote communities and cultures of the world while finding that perfect niche gift for the world traveler, vagabond, backpack-toting free spirit or bohemian who just so happens to have a birthday next week.

Every product is handcrafted by a community from across the world and a portion of the profits generated is given back to the community to maintain their culture and identity or to support the betterment of their society. The scarves, candle holders, and jewelry are stunning and of the best quality. Each piece tells a story that gives it an identity and personality like the culture it was made by.

For example, for my best friend's Christmas gift and to help her with a deployed relative, I gave her a picture frame crafted by a community in Guatemala where there was a cultural tradition called the "Worried People" (or something of a similar thread). You would whisper your worries to the small doll figures that dotted the frame and place it on your windowsill. The dolls would carry your whispers away by the following morning.

For the perfectly thoughtful gift or piece for your home, tenthousandvillages.com is a must visit.