It’s been a while since I was a bride-to-be, but working in this industry for so long, it never ceases to amaze me how excited I can get when I find a new destination to shop for wedding things. Minted, Paper Source, Plum Pretty Sugar, Bhldn, Sugarfina, they’re all my faves. And I’ve known about The Little Market for a few years now, but I didn’t realize just HOW PERFECT a place it is to find super unique wedding must-haves, gifts, favors, etc. Literally, in a world brimming with basic ‘I Do’ paraphernalia, The Little Market stands out with so many special pieces that brides, bridesmaids, MOBs, and wedding guests can appreciate. And completely cherish, btw.
But before we get into all the stuff that you’re just going to die over ((seriously, I’m obsessed)), we need to fill you in on the heartbeat of the entire business - and it’s a great time, too, in the wake of yesterday’s International Women’s Day.
Photo: @thelittlemarket
The Little Market is an e-commerce fair trade shop founded by Lauren Conrad and Hannah Skvarla where customers can purchase absolutely beautiful products handcrafted by artisans around the world. TLM team collaborates with their artisan allies, helping them showcase their traditional skills and cultural techniques to a broader audience. Everything falls under fair trade practice, and every purchase from the site generates meaningful income for the artisans and their families.
What’s more, by working through cooperatives and social enterprises, The Little Market’s partners improve the quality of life in their communities in sundry ways, including literacy workshops, business training and health programs. And the women artisans, in particular, are often able to work from home while caring for their families. The extra income aids in sending their children to school, and very frequently, these children are the first generation to graduate high school. 🙌🙌🙌
Photo: @laurenconrad
As an independent, nonprofit charitable organization, The Little Market puts all surpluses towards purchasing product and expanding the number of artisans that the brand works with around the world. TLM is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation and the Alliance for Artisan Enterprise. So legit.
The founders are so immersed in the everyday mission of the company - to build sustainable partnerships with artisans around the world and connect them with customers through an online marketplace - and in tandem, help empower women artisans to rise above poverty and support their families
The products that are sold are all super unique, but the range is cohesive and tightly-curated and in just a word: charming.
Everything is exceptionally priced. And even the more ‘splurgy’ items are worth the heavier price tag - peep the travel bags, they are SO GOOD. The Sayulita Overnight Bag is ❤️
There’s something onsite for pretty much every part of the wedding picture - starting with the newly-engaged bride-to-be and ending with the wedding guests.
Photo: @thelittlemarket
Oh, and for couples who want to supplement their wedding registry with some statement pieces that they can’t find at the majority of mass retailers, The Little Market can make it happen. It’s simple to set up and allows brides and grooms to select items for their registry through the website. Every gift bought helps generate meaningful income for TLM’s artisan creatives and their families.
I’ve never wanted a ceramic teapot more than I do at this very moment….
Browse some of our wedding faves here, and make sure you’re following @thelittlemarket for new product launches, giveaways, spotlights on the amazing artisans behind all the pretty, inspiring quotes from some fierce females and A LOT MORE.