About Us
I began Taraluna back in 2005 in the hopes of creating meaningful work for myself, while providing ethical products to my customers at a fair price and dignified work to the artisans who create our products. It was also important to think about environmental impacts. I didn’t want to focus on the “bottom line” the way most corporations do, earning a living was important to me, getting rich was not. So I have focused on the “Triple Bottom Line” which incorporates People (Social Equity), Planet (Environmental Stewardship) and Profit (Economic Prosperity).
I feel that small business is the heartbeat of the community, not only here, but around the world. When people are paid a fair wage for their work they are able to send their children to school, to care for their families, and I believe providing dignified work creates peace in the world and helps the entire community.
In searching out unique gifts with an added purpose – of creating positive change, equality and sustainability I found many like minded individuals and businesses that were on the same path. Together with these partners we are able to offer beautiful products, produced in an environmentally sustainable way – and made with love by workers and artisans who are valued.
After 13 years we have finally created a new website, and have found lots of beautiful new items that meet one or more of the following criteria: Fair Trade, Organic, Handcrafted, Recycled/Upcycled, Made in the USA, Environmentally Sustainable, Socially Responsible and just plain good for people and planet.
Thank you so much for helping us to support our ideals, and the artisans both here and abroad - who create our wonderful gifts and products. With your support we can continue our mission of providing meaningful work and ethical sustainable products.
Penny Schafer
Owner/Taraluna – Fair Trade, Organic, Ethical & American Made Gifts
Summer 2018