The idea of starting a fair trade business began about 2 years ago. I had completed a 30-week course, created by JustFaith Ministries, which  comprehensively explores such issues as poverty, homelessness, and unfair trade. With an MBA and many years of business experience, I was immediately attracted to the idea of fair trade.

But like many others in the U.S., I thought it involved just chocolate and coffee. What I didn’t realize, until I delved into it more, is fair trade also offers many beautiful, high-quality home and personal accessories.

With this in mind, my fellow JustFaith graduates and I put together a few fair trade market days in our community. The interest and response was far beyond any of our expectations.

Seeing people so drawn to making a difference with their purchases, I decided to launch Fair Trade Designs. I’ve researched over 100 suppliers of fair trade products to bring you what I believe are the most stylish and well-made pieces available.

My products come from wholesalers who are either members of the Fair Trade Federation or who strictly adhere to fair trade practices. I’ll begin the process of becoming a member as well, once I’ve been in business for a year, as required by the Federation.

Your purchases are a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. Make your vote count and buy fair trade!

Stephanie A. King

Founder, Fair Trade Designs