The Art of Thankfulness: How Fair Trade Connects Us All

Nov 21, 2025by Zellipah Githui

In a world that moves fast, gratitude slows us down, reminding us of the people and stories behind the things we love.

At Gitzell Fair Trade, gratitude is woven into everything we do. We’re thankful for the women artisans who transform natural fibers, soapstone, and recycled fabrics into pieces that bring beauty and purpose to homes around the world.

Each product, from handwoven baskets to soapstone hearts, represents more than craftsmanship. It’s a partnership built on respect, sustainability, and shared growth. When you shop fair trade, you’re helping send children to school, preserve traditional art forms, and build stronger communities.

As we move into the holiday season, let’s celebrate with intention, honoring the makers who make giving meaningful.

Fairtrade artisan partners making their goods

How to Support Our Artisan Partners This Holiday Season

1) Choose gifts with a story.
Opt for handwoven baskets, trays, and soapstone carvings, each piece is crafted by women artisans and helps sustain livelihoods.

2) Share the maker story.
When you gift or post on social, include a line about where it was made and by whom. Small storytelling = big impact. Tag us!

3) Build a meaningful table-scape.
Layer a woven tray, natural placemats, napkin rings, and a soapstone accent. It’s beautiful décor that supports fair wages.

4) Shop early, shop fair.
Holiday demand can outpace handmade supply. Ordering now ensures artisans are paid steadily through the season.

5) Spread the word.
Tag us and mention “fair trade” in your captions so friends discover purposeful gifting too.

Basket with flowers in it, a perfect way to merchandise our products in your stores.

For Retailers: Easy Ways to Turn Story into Sales

  • Create a mini table vignette near the entrance: woven tray base → napkin rings → serving spoons → a soapstone accent.

  • Bundle “host gifts.” Pair serving spoons + napkin rings, or a small bowl + soapstone hearts, and label as “Holiday Host Set.”

  • Use story cards. A 1–2 sentence maker card beside each product lifts conversion and AOV.

  • Place smalls at checkout. Soapstone hearts, animals, and eggs are perfect grab-and-go add-ons.

  • Offer color stories. Group baskets by earth tones vs. brights to help shoppers choose quickly.

Fairtrade tablesetting

A Note of Thanks

Every order helps fund school supplies, healthcare, and opportunity in artisan communities. Thank you for choosing gifts, and inventory, that make the season more meaningful for everyone involved.

Black and natural bolga basket with flowers, perfect for the market and gifting.