A fair trade concept and some fair prices.

In this article, I tell you about my relationship with the artisans who weave the sublime Beni Ouarain rugs, Azilal rugs and other decorative objects that I find all over the world for THEM.

In creating THEM, I started with a simple observation.

Most stores that offer crafts from around the world and especially Berber carpets, whether colorful moroccan rugs or black and white moroccan rugs are not rare. On the other hand? The stores that highlight the artisans, and their expertise are.

For me, what is beautiful in a handmade object is the object itself but also and especially its history. 

I realized that the stores did not talk about this history because they did not know it. Most of them buy from intermediaries. The Maison et Objets show in part or in the souk of Marrakech for Beni Ouarain rugs, Azilal rugs, Boucherouite ...

No contact with the craftsman so no way to really know the history of creations.

A finding that led to a desire ... to go on an adventure to survey the world to meet the most talented artisans and especially learn from their knowledge.

So here I am, heading for the Moroccan Berber mountains. The Berber carpet weavers fascinated me. Their know-how is so exceptional. Their creativity is limitless. The setting is magical.

Other trips followed. Colombia. Indonesia. Jordan... Each trip has its new encounters. Its new treasures.

Cutting out the middlemen and being in direct contact with the artisans allowed me to know the wonderful stories of the Beni Ouarain rugs, Azilal carpets, ceramics, cushions and other objects I was buying, but not only...

What was also important for me in my "no middleman" approach was to know exactly the value that went to the artisan. The women weavers of Berber carpets in Morocco, the dyers in Mali, the natives of Colombia... all these craftsmen have gold in their hands, have a real talent. 

It was therefore essential for me that their remuneration be controlled and fair. 

Buying from an intermediary does not allow this control. The costs are often reduced and the artisans are not paid their fair value.

At THEM, on average, 50% of the selling price is paid to the artisan.

A different way of working to achieve my goal. To participate in my own way to the preservation of ancestral know-how.

Marion, the founder.

Discover my selection of Berber carpets here