Turn off the lights in your house and even a place so familiar can get sad and scary.
In the Philippines, mothers are known as “ilaw ng tahanan” (light of the home), providing guidance and warmth to the family. When a mother loses her spark, the home is thrown into darkness.
Knowing the significant role mothers play in weaving the futures of their families, social enterprise Rags2Riches has been empowering work-from-home moms from impoverished communities for almost a decade now.
R2R develops them into artisans, who turn upcycled and indigenous fabrics into eco-ethical fashion items. With dignified work, steady income, and improved skills — all while still being able to take care of the family at home — these mothers’ lights become that much brighter.
Read: 6 inspiring Work-at-Home Moms share what it takes to succeed at home and at work
From totes, R2R has ventured into décor, as the project comes full circle: the nanays are now weaving pieces from their homes to yours. R2R Living offers woven wall art, area and accent rugs, poufs, and throw pillows.
The latest R2R Living line is a collaboration with interior stylist and member of theAsianparent parent advisory board, Marilen Faustino-Montenegro. The collection features functional home accessories like woven floor/hanging planters, rustic serving trays, and hand-crocheted poufs.
“I am a believer of investing in good organizing accessories so the floor plant holders and trays were a must,” says Marilen.
The planters double as storage options for books and magazines, kids’ toys, or even yoga mats!
The serving trays are perfect for serving (or getting served) breakfast in bed.
They also work well as display trays on coffee or buffet tables.
In hues both refreshing, like salmon and turquoise, and easy to match, like charcoal grey and natural abaca, these home organizing pieces from Rags2Riches are a welcome addition to Filipino homes.
R2R Living x Marilen.ph products are available at Rags2Riches stores and online via marilenstyles.com. Visit rags2riches.ph for more details.
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