Wish You Were Here
Jennifer of Rundpinne blogging fame had an interesting idea for a way that I could raise some extra money to put towards going to BlogHer.
I want to let you in on it in case you would like to participate.
Jennifer suggested that I select some special items that are unique to Laos, and sell them at a profit. She was just asking that I do this for her, but I thought if others want some cool souvenirs too, the more the merrier.
I even thought, maybe I could make a “discover Laos” gift set that contained certain items and sell the whole selection for one price.
Some items that I would include are silk scarves, needle work from the Hmong hill tribe, and possibly some silver jewelry like a necklace chain, anklet or even those little baby anklets with bells on them (a pair).
I believe it is the Akha hill tribe who make small folksy stuffed toys, baby dresses and hats, and beaded ornaments. These items are usually in loud colors like bright pinks and reds, with neon yellow thread or some such.
Other possibilities are Lao paper money (current or old, the older ones being a bit more valuable because of their rarity), handmade greeting cards made from mulberry paper, and souvenir type t-shirts.
The t-shirt designs here are rather 1970’s, so it would appeal to those who love kitsch.
Very large sizes aren’t available, but children’s sizes and your standard S, M, L, and XL are no problem.
Lao coffee is fair trade also, and I could send small amounts of that for you to sample.
If you give me some color guidelines I can select things that will match your home.
For shipping, I was considering either sending the items back with a traveler to be mailed from the US, or sending them in one batch to one person in the US who would then divvy it up and send it where they belong domestically.
Look at this post for examples of the scarves and needle work I’m referring to.
If you want to be “in”, let me know what kinds of items you are interested in the most, and I will do another post when I get back to Laos with detailed pictures and prices.
After you see the prices, then you can commit.
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30 January 2009, 2:39 pm
Me, me, me, me!! Scarves (oh my the ones posted are so beautiful and colourful)! Needlework, a silver bracelet or anklet or some form of necklace, Fair Trade coffee (if it is not too heavy to ship). I would even like something from the Akha hill tribe. I LOVE the “discover Laos” idea!
I probably missed a few items. I am sure you will come up with fabulous items and we will get you to Blogher!
Colours do not matter to me, as I want what the tribes make and sell. Items used by the people themselves. If you do what specific colour requests or ideas, I of course will provide them, however I think you are most qualified to judge. And please, please buy from those who need the sales most!
You are wonderful!!! WHoot, my home will have a fllair of Laos!!
Would you like to write up a blurb for me to post on my blog? I wold be happy to, if you are interested.
Jennifers last blog post..Focus Friday-Week Four
30 January 2009, 3:35 pm
I’m intrigued! What a great idea!
Mrs. Coxs last blog post..? A Sweet Giveaway ?
30 January 2009, 6:55 pm
I think the only things I wouldn’t be interested in would be the tees. Everything else sounds lovely–the scarves, the needlework, the silver jewelry. Can’t wait to find out more.
30 January 2009, 7:03 pm
All of the things you mentioned sound lovely, the scarves, silver jewelry and baby books are great. Keep me posted, and what a great idea Jennifer!
31 January 2009, 7:19 pm
That sounds a great idea. My mom loves foreign money and she’d be thrilled if I could get her some currency from Laos - just everyday bills.
01 February 2009, 2:40 am
The t-shirts, cards, discover Laos… well actually pretty much all you mentioned is intriguing! I’d love to support you in getting there and this is a great idea!
01 February 2009, 3:40 am
Something else I was thinking of that you could sell are those reclaimed rice bag purses and totes. I’m assuming they come from Thailand (I saw one at Ten Thousand Villages today that had “thai” on it). They seem to be a hit, especially the messenger style bags. Who knows if you can even get a hold of those where you’re at.
01 February 2009, 8:53 am
This is such a great idea! I would LOVE (and gladly buy) some baby items from Laos. Maybe onesies, booties, blankets? That would be SO awesome.
kayceewilliams at gmail dot com
01 February 2009, 8:54 am
Sorry, im tired and didnt see the paragraph about the baby things you mentioned. Those sound wonderful!
kayceewilliams at gmail dot com