Stephanie King

I recently launched an online retail store, Fair Trade Designs. I carry a distinctive collection of jewelry, purses, apparel, stationery products, and home decor that are handcrafted under fair trade and eco-friendly conditions. The majority of the products are created by small groups of poverty-l ...

I recently launched an online retail store, Fair Trade Designs. I carry a distinctive collection of jewelry, purses, apparel, stationery products, and home decor that are handcrafted under fair trade and eco-friendly conditions. The majority of the products are created by small groups of poverty-level women in countries around the globe.

Because fair trade isn't just about products but about the stories behind them, every item I sell has a short narrative about the artisan or group of artisans who created the product. In many cases, the artisans are women who've been rescued from prostitution or abusive situations at home or work. In all cases, part of the proceeds from their handiwork goes towards education and health care for them and their children.

I became interested in fair trade during an intensive 30-week course I completed that studied social issues such as poverty, homelessness, unfair trade, and immigration. The fair trade movement really connected with me, given my strong business background. I wanted to start a business that did some good in the world.