She Strengthens

Transforming My Living Space with a Conscience

Growing up in poverty, I never had the luxury of nice things. Our homes were never the prettiest or most comfortable, and there were even times when we had to stay in a homeless shelter. Although my family’s situation has improved over the years, I still struggle to make ends meet as a freelance writer. My current living space is far from decorated, but I’m determined to change that.

The Power of Pre-Shopping

To turn my vision into a reality, I’ve started “pre-shopping” – creating a list of items I’d like to purchase when I have the funds. This approach allows me to prioritize my spending and focus on investing in pieces that not only beautify my home but also support artisans and the environment. I might need to start a savings fund to afford these items, but it’ll be worth it in the end.

Empowering Artisans and the Environment

When I do have the money, I plan to splurge on items that benefit creators and the planet. I’ve searched for fair trade and handmade shops, as well as eco-friendly stores, to find unique and gorgeous home decor pieces. These items don’t just add beauty to my living room; they also uplift artisans, particularly women, around the world.

Tier 1 Splurges: Affordable Luxury

Here are some stunning home decor items that might be a bit pricier than usual, but are still within reach:

• Oh! Fox Square Pillow: A handwoven pillow featuring tassels and edge detailing from artisans in Oaxaca City, Mexico, in partnership with Oh Fox! Creative. ($92, ravenandlily.com)
• Ceramic Vase – White & Gold: A golden-glazed vase that adds glamour to any room, crafted by women artisans through The Little Market. ($72, thelittlemarket.com)
• Shadow Garden Mood Lamp: A handcrafted lamp from Bangladesh that casts beautiful shadows, created by the Shuktara Handmade Paper Project. ($49.99, tenthousandvillages.com)

Tier 2 Splurges: Worth the Investment

These pieces require more financial planning, but they’re truly worth it:

• Atlantic Sculptural Bowl: A stunning bowl crafted from reclaimed glass and silver by glass artist Mira Woodworth. ($350, uncommongoods.com)
• Baya Lumbar Pillow: A vibrant pillow made by the Women of Oaxaca in Mexico, featuring a geometric pattern inspired by the Zapotec tribes. ($195, the-citizenry.com)
• Felted Wool Pebble Stool: A cozy stool with hand-felted wool pebbles and raw mango wood legs, perfect for adding warmth to any room. ($149, vivaterra.com)

By investing in these beautiful, eco-friendly, and fair trade home decor pieces, I’ll not only transform my living space but also support artisans and the environment. It’s a splurge worth making.