Handwritten notes might not be the most eco-friendly way to say “thank you” or “congratulations” in today’s digital age. But there are too many occasions where e-mail, twitter, or facebook messages are simply not sufficient. That’s where the beautiful El Salvador notecard collection by Hope for Women comes in handy. The gorgeous designs seem perfect for bridal shower, mother’s day, or birthday wishes. All cards are handmade by women in El Salvador’s highland cloud forest whose homes were destroyed by a devastating earthquake and mudslides in 2001. Many of their fields were damaged which forced them to look for low-paying factory jobs in the capital with many hours of commuting.
A group of entrepreneurial women founded Arte Comasagua to help those families that were without a home and job. The artisans’ organization crafts these stunning cards that feature stylish portraits of women handcrafted with native flowers and plants. Each card is named after a woman and reflects the style of the artist who selected the flowers. The designs are almost too beautiful to give away and would look great as a framed group of wall art at home. The Fair Trade notecards are blank on the inside and come with a matching envelope. All packaging is printed with non-toxic soy ink on 100% post consumer recycled paper and tells the women’s story. It comes in a plastic wrap made of EarthFirst PLA compostable film.
Hope for Women is a socially responsible company based in Vermont and a member of the Fair Trade Federation. Other products include the Hope For Women India greeting cards as a tree-free alternative handmade from recycled cotton rags. The company is in the process of creating the El Salvador cards from 100% recycled paper to reduce its impact on the environment as well. What all these products have in common is that economically disadvantaged women worldwide are able to express themselves through design and provide a sustainable income to their families in the process. They are all paid a fair wage under safe and healthy work conditions. It’s another great example how beautiful design can be good design.