Latin Toast in Red Pine Needle Polyester Red Coasters (Set of 4) Guatemala

Jessica and Lorena

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We are Jessica Figueroa and Lorena Bianchi. We believe that dreams must begin in our hearts, are developed in our minds and are worked with our hands to become reality. Our story involves a venture that's become a dream-come-true for many Maya women in Guatemalan women.

Imagine you are enjoying a view of green mountains, fresh air when you suddenly become aware of the forest's scent. After that, you learn that there are some artisans with magical hands that are able to create beautiful, ecological crafts from the pine needles that carry that scent.

"This is how our project began in 2013 — with the talented hands of artisan women who knew how to transform natural resources into crafts that convey the essence of nature. We travel once a week to a rural village in Western Guatemala. We work together to develop new designs and techniques to teach other women. We understand the importance of providing work opportunities to Maya women, their families and communities.

"We are currently working with more than 100 Maya women. We try to visit them once a week and make sure they are paid fairly for their work. We always try to incorporate new designs and create high quality woven items.

"This path hasn't been an easy one, but we've managed to overcome many obstacles. The women's smiles and empowered attitudes have taught us that nothing is impossible and this is priceless in our eyes.

"When we look back and remember the wonderful sight of the Guatemalan forest, the magical hands that we saw one morning and the long path we've walked together, we're very grateful for everything we've achieved. Although we are sure there'll be hard work ahead, we smile when we think about all the dreams we have yet to achieve."

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NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.

Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.

Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.

The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.

United States shipping only. Expedited shipping is unavailable. Allow for 1-2 days extra processing time. This product may ship separately from other products in your order and may have longer than normal shipping timelines as it will ship directly from its country of origin.

All sales of this product are final -- we do not accept returns or issue replacements unless there is a defect with the product. Please review our Returns & Exchanges policy.