unlock that thanksgiving love - The Giving Keys

Still inspired by a New York hotel room key, the Classic Necklace from The Giving Keys, has been re-imagined into this sleek Black Matte Key. Powerful addition to any guy or gals wardrobe...current, hip...and helpful.

This is the third time I'm writing about The Giving Keys...the initial post with all the love and admiration this company deserves is here. 

You see, I cannot ever say enough about this kick-butt company, based here in Los Angeles. They are on the frontline, educating, employing and assisting the homeless out of homelessness...and doing a very good job of it!

Always inspired and Smitten with The Giving Keys.

sexy, sustainable and star studded - People Tree

Catch the eye with these yummy star-studded studs. Hand pounded, 100% silver-plated brass. Gorgeous!

People Tree is recognized for its production of ethical, sustainable fashion. For more than 25 years, this pioneer company has partnered with Fair Trade producers, garment workers, artisans and farmers in the developing world to create fashion forward, eco-friendly collections.

People Tree gives customers an alternative to "fast fashion". "Fast fashion is fueled by an insatiable demand for cheap clothing and accessories. Fast fashion has a devastating impact, from sweatshops and child labor to pollution and global warming. Slow Fashion means standing up against exploitation, family separation, slum cities and pollution – all the things that make fast fashion so successful."

Fair Trade is ethical, sustainable and fashionable....and the opposite of fast fashion.

People Tree products are made by artisans who work and uphold Fair Trade standards. People Tree was the world’s first clothing company to receive the World Fair Trade Organization Fair Trade product mark in 2013.

Fair Trade makes a powerful difference. People Tree is helping to alleviate poverty in the world's most marginalized communities.

Smitten!

hands and hearts...and suds - Hand in Hand soap

It is so wonderfully simple: you buy a bar of this luxurious soap, and provide soap and clean water to children in the developing world.

In 2011, Bill Glaab and Courtney Apple read a substantial article that stated 5 million children die each year from water related illnesses. After much research, they learned that 45% of these deaths could have been prevented with simple hand washing alone. They decided to create a utilitarian product... that could save lives as well. Thus, Hand in Hand was born!

You can buy directly from their site. Or, you can find Hand in Hand...at Target!

It is your purchases that keep these programs running & we thank you for your continued support!

a sparkly, sexy...significant bangle - Eden: Fusion Leather Snap bracelet

This wrist stunner is made from twenty four hand-beaded strands affixed to two soft, sturdy leather strands. The wristlet closes with three snap buttons that adorn the leather. Stand out in this luscious piece of jewelry from Raven and Lily.

This bangle is made by women who live on the Entoto Mountain in Ethiopia, where the artisans melt down bullet casings to create the beads for their designs, "transforming what was once used for harm into beauty."

This is my third post for Raven and Lily, a company I positively love. The initial post with all appropriate accolades here.

Forever Smitten with Raven and Lily.

beautiful block print scarf...Hello fall! - Greenola Style

This luxurious block print scarf certainly welcomes fall with a big "hello!" Not only will neckwear keep you warm, but can pull a look together in one fell swoop...and always adds a bit of mystery. This 100% cotton scarf has such a subtle design, thin geometric lines of lavender and miniature diamonds of deep rose. Gorgeous.

This beautiful garment was made in India.

Greenola Style provides advancement opportunities to artisans in marginalized parts of the world - particularly in Bolivia and Kenya.

Respecting the cultural heritage and promoting the craftsmanship in each country, Greenola pays fair wages - Fair Trade Federation.

Greenola donates a percentage of their profits to Solidarity Bridge, an organization that trains and equips medical communities in Bolivia and Paraguay empowering them to provide high-complexity surgery and other healthcare for those living in poverty.

This partnership also helps Bolivian artisans access quality healthcare.

To donate directly to Solidarity Bridge.

Greenola Style is not affiliated with Solidarity Bridge, however they donate to help support their mission.

Smitten with Greenola Style and Solidarity Bridge!

brother's birthday abroad - Sackcloth & Ashes

'Twas my brother's birthday yesterday...hoozah!! Now, what do I get the guy who has everything? I say a couple of brand new, spankingly beautiful, cozy blankets from Sackcloth & Ashes for his cabin in Wisconsin - where you can never have too many outdoor covers!

And here's the thing about purchasing this good-looking, hearty spread...you will also be providing a blanket to your local homeless shelter with every purchase. Nothing better than that!

I've written about this superb company before - November, 2015...I love them.

The blanket is a wool blend, of medium/heavy weight, and can be used for indoor/outdoor home decor.

Made in Oregon.

Size: 6' x 5'/Weight: 3 lbs

Smitten...again.

joy and the summer lovin' necklace - The Shine Project

The Summer Lovin Necklace Stack from The Shine Project is the perfect accompaniment to a sundress or beachy outfit.  We love it when doing good, looking good and feeling good are all wrapped into one great accessory!

The Shine Project’s jewelry line was born from blogger Ashley LeMieux’s desire to provide scholarships for her under-prepared and potentially college-bound mentees.  What started as a group of students making friendship bracelets in Ashley’s condo - initially called Threads by The Shine Project - has grown into a full fledged for-profit company with a beautiful line of accessories.  Thier mission is to provide scholarships, life experience, employment and mentoring to teens who otherwise would not have the resources to seek higher education.  Since 2011, The Shine Project has provided over 40 Scholarships, and currently employs 11 inner city students at their Phoenix, Arizona workspace.  In addition to the support from product purchases, 100% of direct donations go to providing books and supplies to their scholarship recipients. 

Shine on! Smitten.

polished apparel, consistently socially conscious - Kenneth Cole Productions

Kenneth Cole has been melding socially conscious commentary and fashion for decades now. When I think of the companies that I seek to support, where capitalism and community work together in social agreement...I think of Kenneth Cole.

[Pictured here:  CROPPED BODICE COWLNECK DRESS by Kenneth Cole Black Label]

Today, Kenneth Cole Productions is an American fashion house that designs men's and women's clothing, shoes and accessories. But the thriving company started solely as a footwear line.

In 1982, Cole went to an Italian shoe factory with the intention of designing a high-end product that would be profitable and support his lifestyle. Yet quite immediately he realized, that if his purpose of action were to do the right thing, money would flow.

"I do believe if I could make it about something that's more sustainable than hem lengths, heel heights, then so becomes my relationship with my customer — more about what they stand in but what they stand for. Not just of what they wear, but of what they are aware."

Cole's brand is known for its provocative commentary on political issues through its advertising. The voice of the brand was particularly memorable in the eighties and nineties, when Cole used advertising to support causes such as gay rights and AIDS research.

Forever Smitten with this brand.

shimmering gold stocking stuffers - Purpose Jewelry

Exciting, eye-catching, ear candy: classic gold shimmering hoop earrings. Strung with metallic faceted beads...perfectly wearable day or night.

These yummy hoops are available in both Gold and Silver and have a 2 1/4" drop, with a 1 1/2" width.

I love these earrings, but I love the company behind them more.

Purpose jewelry, is handcrafted by survivors of modern-day slavery.

100% of the proceeds from Purpose benefit International Sanctuary, a non-profit that provides holistic care for young women rescued from sex trafficking.

When a girl escapes or is rescued from sex trafficking she is faced with an enormous level of trauma with very little support.

In 2007, International Sanctuary (iSanctuary) was created to address the needs of these young women through holistic care and empowerment. The women are offered mentorship, education, medical and dental care, scholarships, and micro-loans to prepare them for brighter futures.

In September 2014, International Sanctuary launched Purpose, a way to empower the survivors through employment and financial stability. The women are able to enjoy a healthy workplace, free to laugh and grow. A place that helps to transform these once victims, into skilled artisans, survivors...and thrivers. 

Super Smitten!

make a difference - Madi Apparel

Cool, comfy, confident...these pretty, applause worthy panties are made of a soft organic bamboo fabric and decorous, floral lace.

This is how Madi apparel works:

-       Madi creates a beautiful pair of panties here in the US, using a very practical and sustainable bamboo fabric.

-       You buy said panties for yourself, or several friends!

-       Madi then donates a pair to a woman in need.

-       As underwear is the most under-donated item...you've just helped a fellow sister feel more comfortable and supported.

"Underwear is a woman’s most personal garment -- we know what we’re attracted to and feel most comfortable in."

This company, created by the lovely Hayley Besheer in Kansas City, Missouri in 2014, is outstanding!

Undeniably Smitten!

100% vegan weekender bag for the boys - Matt & Nat

My husband travels A LOT!! He's in the film industry and finds traveling with a backpack (as carry-on,) works best for him. Well, this is going to be under the tree this year, and I'm confident he'll be rockin' this re-cycled, polished, super hip Artigan bag from Matt & Nat in 2016.

100% vegan, up-cycled materials, superior craftsmanship, ideally designed...for both men and women.

notablySmitten first introduced Matt & Nat in May of this year, and we are still crazy about them.

Utterly Smitten.

warm yourself...love someone else - Sackcloth and Ashes

This comfy, supple, beauteous alpaca wool throw is perfect for the season. It is elegant and ultra soft, well-made and edged with a fine fringe.

But the best thing about this sumptuous throw; for every blanket you purchase, you will also be providing a blanket to your local homeless shelter. It's just that simple and straightforward.

Founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, Bob Dalton, was inspired to help the homeless population when his hardworking single mother, found herself living on the streets in 2013.

Because of his mother’s story, he began to call homeless shelters in his area to ask what they needed...they all said blankets. Thus, he created Sackcloth & Ashes.

They sell high quality blankets worldwide, and since the founding, they have provided over 4500 blankets to homeless shelters.

Smitten!

for the boys! - State Dopp Kits

This is a distinguished, graceful, tidy dopp kit for the guys...The Jay, a truly perfect gift. As I am always on the look out for something special for my man, this wool and canvas combo bag from STATE is going to be next on the shopping list.

Brooklyn based STATE, is a partnership between husband and wife duo, Scot and Jacqueline Tatelman, created after watching untold amounts of kids carrying their possessions in trash bags to and from school.

STATE Bags is a company that promises to not only deliver a new backpack, but to also provide kids with tools to reach their fullest potential and better their communities...and to always have their backs.

This philanthropic duo is committed to addressing the needs of American children living with challenging circumstances.

For every STATE bag purchased, STATE hand-delivers a backpack, packed with essential tools for success, to a child in need.

STATE Bags is proud to be a Benefit Corporation. Benefit Corporations are companies that create public significance by having a positive impact on society.

Smitten.

a yummier football season - fashionABLE game day scarf

We are now well into football season...so who doesn't need a matching scarf to go with your favorite team? fashionABLE has created these incredibly chic, ridiculously soft, 100% cotton scarves to go with your (surely) winning team!

These scarves:

-available in both traditional and infinity styles

-medium weight with contrasting textured stripes

-handwoven in Ethiopia

-subtle variations add to the uniqueness of each scarf

In 2005, Barrett Ward founded the revolutionary themochaclub.org. The idea was to give up the price of just 2-3 mocha lattes a month and forge change in Africa - using that money to create relief and development projects.

In just a few years later, Barrett moved to Ethiopia for a year. There, he met a group of activists called Women at Risk, who work with women exploited in the sex industry. After witnessing the success Women at Risk was having, Barrett came to understand that one of the biggest variables in keeping these women off the streets was generative employment.

With this, fashionABLE was born. Women sharing what they are ABLE to do when provided an opportunity.

With wholehearted team spirit...Smitten.

the Giving Pledge - Chobani

I don't eat a lot of yogurt...but I will now.

How can one not be moved and thoroughly Smitten with Hamdi Ulukaya! The founder and CEO Of Chobani, vowed at the end of May, that he would join some of the world's richest individuals in pledging to give away at least 700 million dollars (half of his wealth,) to help refugees from all around the world, through a new foundation called Tent.

In the announcement, Ulukaya said that he would sign The Giving Pledge, a pledge that was started by Bill Gates and Warren Buffet to spur philanthropy in billionaires and millionaires.

Ulukaya said that he was dedicating his pledge to his mother, and that he was has committed “to helping the refugees and bringing an end to this humanitarian crisis.”

Bravo.

Smitten.

the best soap ever - Noodle & Boo

I was a buyer for a tiny boutique in Minneapolis a couple of years ago ...and when a rep for Noodle and Boo came in one day, I was smitten instantly. All of their products smell deee-licious, and the packaging is delicate and pleasing.

Noodle and Boo's Believe Honey Bar will more than just bathe and moisten your skin: 100% of the profits from the Believe Honey Bar will go to the Circle of Love campaign.

Circle of Love, created by Noodle and Boo, raises awareness and funds for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS (PMTCT) programs in Africa. Ensuring that babies born to HIV-positive mothers will not contract the virus because moms will receive the necessary immunizations and care they need.

This yummy beauty bar is formulated with natural ingredients to soothe, moisturize and refresh the skin as it cleans. They have created a non-soap formulation that washes off thoroughly, leaving skin thoroughly soft. It also rebalances your skin’s natural pH to help keep your skin moist and not tight.

~ Shea butter, honey and a myriad of vitamins - splendid!

~ Clinically-tested and hypoallergenic - ideal!

~ 5.75 ounce bar - generous!

~ Arrives in signature box - lovely!

Addicted and Smitten!

brotherly love! - Ben Kelly Surfboards

Though I have lived in Southern California for many years...I have never been on a surfboard. But I have spent countless hours (waking up way too early,) to hang on the sand while boyfriends bobbed in the water, waiting for that perfect ride. The board was essential...and I learned a lot through the years...

I am so happy to write about Ben Kelly Surfboards, they are exquisite! Each board is beautifully handcrafted...and gorgeous. He has been operating out of Orange County, CA since 2007, and offers the surfer a unique experience when purchasing a board.

Whatever you require...whatever you can conjure...Ben Kelly can deliver.

Creating surfboards to your personal design and specifications. Working with you, they will take your ideas and make them a reality.

"You dream it, I'll shape it," says Ben. So start dreaming!

And Ben Kelly Surfboards has a much grander purpose. 50% of all profits made from each surfboard are donated to nonprofit organizations aimed at sustainable business development in Kenya.

Their mission is to use their passion for surfing to fuel the dreams of others!

Awesomely Smitten!

random acts of flowers

It's so simple, so loving...I'm crazy about Random Acts of Flowers!

RAF recycles and repurposes flowers and distributes them to individuals in healthcare facilities across the country...so cool!!

Random Acts of Flowers’ mission is driven by floral recipients, and strives to be a 100% recycling organization.

With more than 500 volunteers making up the core of the operations and mission fulfillment around the country, if you've got the time, they would love to include you in the volunteer team at a branch near you.

Please check out their story here.

Totally Smitten!

jewels brimming with good will - Fortuned Cuture

I am so incredibly grateful for the inspiration and energy that the companies and organizations I write about enkindle in me.

Fortuned Culture, founded by Eritrean American entrepreneur, Azie Tesfai, is a recent revelation. An incomparable jewelry line with good will intentions of hope and change for the world. 

Each of her collections reflects the culture of its collaborating charity, while symbolizing what the charity hopes to achieve. Fortuned Culture is currently working with the Fregenet Foundation in Ethiopia, that provide early childhood education to children from lower income families. They also work with Corazon de Vida in Mexico, whose work supports orphanages in Baja.

This article features her Health Bracelet, priced at $30. This splendid, delicate adornment will feed a child in an Ethiopian school, 65 meals! She wants to remind consumers that they can make a difference with every dollar they spend, "Why not buy something beautiful and help feed a group of children."

Through the farsightedness of Fortuned Culture, the consumer has an observable way of connecting to a charity and the goals it seeks.

The team at FC, tell each culture’s story beautifully, giving the consumer an insight into the impact that their contribution will have.

I am Smitten with this collaboration of charity and art!

[All of Azie Tesfai's hard work caught the attention of TOMS, and Fortuned Culture is now a part of TOMS Marketplace - ever working to change the consumer’s perspective on spending.]

campfires, candles and clean water - Obakki

I'm from Minnesota, where there is nothing more reminiscent of home, or comforting to my senses, as the scent of a smoldering campfire.

Creating that scent in Southern California, without a fireplace, is virtually impossible. But Treana Peake has created a candle that if I close my eyes, takes me right back to Kabekona Lake in July.

The Obakki Cinder Candle smells of roasted coals, river stones and dry wood...and when purchased, helps provide clean water in other parts of the world.

100% of all candle proceeds go toward Obakki projects.

Treana Peake is an avid traveler and leading humanitarian, and founded Obakki in 2005. Based in Vancouver, the luxury label is an extension of Peake. The Obakki Foundation is Obakki's philanthropic counterpart, a registered charity that focuses on providing clean water and education in Africa.

Obakki absorbs all the administrative fees of the charity, allowing 100% of the foundation's donations to go directly to its charitable initiatives.

So Smitten!