A Shared Vision with Convoy of Hope

Recently, we had the privilege of partnering with Convoy of Hope, a faith-based, humanitarian organization whose mission is to feed the hungry and bring help and hope to communities that need it most. Their core values—love, dignity, service, excellence, integrity, and advocacy—resonate deeply with our own.

In collaboration with Convoy of Hope, we curated a unique Hat Bar experience. Our skilled women artisans were present on-site, offering personalized embroidery of attendees' initials on handcrafted hats. This interactive experience not only provided guests with a meaningful, customized gift but also showcased the artisans talent and dedication, creating an opportunity for direct engagement between artisans and consumers. More than just a gifting moment, it was a chance for attendees to connect with the hands behind their products, gaining insight into the artistry and heritage embedded in every stitch.

We invite you to be a part of this journey—choosing gifts that carry meaning, support artisans, and empower communities. Together, we can create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact. For more information on our artisan partnerships and gifting experiences, please visit our website or contact us directly.

Note: This blog post is inspired by our recent collaboration with Convoy of Hope. To learn more about their mission and initiatives, visit convoyofhope.org.

Make your guests feel extra special with customized welcome bags!

Level up your event's hospitality by adding personalized touches to your welcome bags. It's more than just a goodie bag, it's a way to show your guests you appreciate them and create a lasting memory.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Add their names: From bags with their initials to handwritten notes, a little personalization goes a long way.

• Gift items related to your event theme: Think branded water bottles for a fitness retreat or mini succulents for a garden party.

• Include local treats or handmade crafts: Support local businesses and add a unique touch!

• Don't forget the practical: Hand sanitizer, phone chargers, or sunglasses? They'll thank you later!

This isn't just about a bag; it's about a community.

Thanks to Altec, 55 of these amazing bags have found new homes. Each time one of these bags is sold, you're supporting schools and sewing workshops in Puerto Vallarta. This isn't just about a bag; it's about a community.

The production cooperative behind these bags helps disadvantaged individuals transition to new careers by offering sewing courses, technical training on specialized equipment, and creating job opportunities in Puerto Vallarta. This social project provides high-quality sewing services, with all income going directly to the seamstresses—local women who, through their work, support the well-being of many families in the area.

By choosing this unique piece, you're making a difference. You're not only supporting a family in Puerto Vallarta but also adding a stylish and versatile item to your collection. Perfect for carrying your summer essentials, these bags feature vibrant striped colors that will brighten any day at the beach.

Mexican Culture Shines at Accruent, Xcaret

We had the incredible opportunity to create unique amenities for the Accruent program in Riviera Maya at Xcaret. Thanks to their collaboration, 50 hand-painted portraits were sold alongside 50 chocolate kits that we crafted. This initiative not only celebrated Mexican heritage but also supported local communities by encouraging the preservation of their fine arts and folklore traditions.

Hand-Painted Portraits

During this project, we collaborated with the talented artisan Rosarito, renowned for her expertise in hand-painting beautiful and unique Mexican folklore onto wooden portraits and sculptures. Her stunning works capture the essence of Mexican culture, bringing its vibrant heritage to life through each piece. Each portrait tells a story, depicting scenes from daily life, mythical tales, and historical events. Rosarito’s attention to detail and her deep connection to her craft ensure that each artwork is a true masterpiece.

Mayan Chocolate Kits

Chocolate played a significant role in ancient Mayan civilization, where it was considered a luxury reserved for the upper class. It was used in religious ceremonies to honor the gods and as a prized ingredient in their cuisine. To celebrate this rich history, we created Mayan Chocolate Kits, offering a taste of this ancient tradition. Patricia, a passionate local from Guadalajara, started her business with her daughter to share their love for Mexican culture. Their kits include not only the finest chocolate but also detailed instructions and historical insights, allowing you to experience chocolate as the Mayans did.

Supporting Local Communities

This initiative goes beyond just creating and selling products. By partnering with local artisans like Rosarito and Patricia, we aim to foster sustainable economic growth within their communities. The proceeds from the sales help these artisans continue their craft, preserve their cultural heritage, and pass down their skills to future generations. Additionally, it encourages the local youth to engage with their traditions, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Mexican fine arts and folklore remains vibrant and alive.

A Cultural Experience

Our collaboration with the Accruent program at Xcaret was more than just a gifiting experience; it was a celebration of Mexican culture and an effort to bring its rich history to a wider audience.Attendees had the opportunities to witness the artistry and passion of local craftsmen firsthand, creating a meaningful connection to the culture and traditions of the region.

We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to more projects that celebrate and support the vibrant cultures and communities of Mexico. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.

A Smudging Experience for Wellness Events

Unwind, recharge, and create a personalized space for reflection with our curated smudging experience!

This interactive workshop empowers you to design your own enlightenment kit, perfect for fostering a sense of calm and well-being in your daily life.

Here's what awaits you:

• Candlelight the Way: Select a handmade soy wax candle to illuminate your journey. The gentle flicker will not only provide light but also set a calming ambiance.

• Embrace Sacred Smoke: Choose your preferred sacred smoke to cleanse and purify your space. We'll have a variety of options available, each with its unique properties.

• Find Your Ground: Select a beautiful ceramic plate to serve as a holder for your smoldering herbs after use. This functional piece will add a touch of elegance to your self-care rituals.

• Embrace the Crystal's Call: Listen to your intuition and select a crystal that resonates with you. Hold them during meditation to enhance focus or carry them with you throughout the day for a comforting presence.

By crafting your own personalized kit, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and create a sanctuary tailored to your specific needs. This experience is perfect for:

• Team-building exercises at wellness retreats

• Adding a unique touch to meditation workshops

• Offering guests a memorable activity at holistic fairs

Let us guide you on a path to inner peace. Contact us today to incorporate this engaging smudging experience into your next wellness event!

PROS President’s Club 2023 – APRIL, 2024

From April 8th to the 14th, the picturesque Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita played host to the esteemed PROS President's Club 2023 Program. The week-long event, which brought together a group of 155 people, was a remarkable blend of luxury, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Room Drops & Gifting

One of the standout features of the program was the thoughtfully curated room drops, which added a personal and cultural touch to each guest's stay. Attendees were delighted with:

• Customized Jicaras from Santiago Pinotepa, Oaxaca:

  Beautifully crafted with the group's logo, these traditional gourd bowls added a touch of Oaxaca's rich heritage to the event.

• Handcrafted Pewter Frames from Guadalajara, Jalisco:

  Each frame, customized with the PROS President's Club logo, served as a timeless memento of the event.

• Handmade Embroidery Tenango/Otomi Runners from Tenango, Hidalgo:

  These exquisite runners, known for their vibrant and intricate designs, brought a piece of Hidalgo's artisan legacy to each room.

Unique Experiences

The event was not just about the luxurious setting and beautiful gifts; it also included unique experiences that allowed attendees to engage with local culture in meaningful ways.

• Hat Reception at Minas Restaurant:

  Set in the charming Punta Mita downtown, this reception was a highlight. Guests had the opportunity to design their dream hats, choosing from a variety of styles and embellishments. The presence of skilled local artisans who hand-embroidered attendees' initials added a special, personal touch to the evening.

The Grand Finale

The final dinner was a night to remember, characterized by elegance and attention to detail.

• Customized Wooden Fans with Otomi Design:

  As attendees arrived, they were greeted by a stunning fan wall adorned with colorful flowers. Each fan, customized with the group's logo and personalized with the attendee's name, added a touch of whimsy and practicality to the evening.

• Hand-Painted Talavera Plates from Puebla, Puebla:

  These beautiful plates, used as table settings, were not just functional but also served as unique souvenirs. Each plate was hand-painted and personalized with the name of the attendee, reflecting the rich ceramic tradition of Puebla.

The PROS President's Club 2023 Program at Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, was a masterclass in event planning, combining luxury, culture, and personalization to create an unforgettable experience for all attendees. The thoughtful details, from the room drops to the grand finale dinner, ensured that every moment was special and every guest felt appreciated. It was an event that perfectly showcased the beauty and craftsmanship of Mexican culture, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Celebrating Artistry and Connection at IPS Punta Mita 2024

We are thrilled to share our incredible experience at the International Partners Summit (IPS) Punta Mita 2024, held this May at the breathtaking Four Seasons Punta Mita. This prestigious three-day event brought together top Four Seasons destinations with planners poised to host exceptional events, fostering a community dedicated to delivering unparalleled services and experiences. 

As part of this extraordinary gathering, we were honored to offer a unique gifting experience that allowed attendees to connect deeply with the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Our thoughtfully curated gifts were showcased in a market setting, where attendees could select the color or design of their preference. The stations pre-chosen hold immense value to us as they are very particular collaborations with talented Artisans who have collaborated with our company for years, hence why we are so passionate to tell you about them.

Gifts with great intention 

The perfect beach bag: Each time a person chose a bag, they supported schools and sewing workshops in Puerto Vallarta. This isn't just about a bag; it's about supporting a community of women, who work all day to make a living for their families. On top of their impact, each one is made on a loom from upcycled cotton.
An experience to connect with your true self (The milagro experience): Lupita and her husband Francisco have created a truly magnificent workshop where each participant can be part of a journey of self-discovery. Each participant would select a wooden sculpture adorned with charms that would best connect with them or immediately draw their attention, and Lupita and Francisco interpret from them the meaning behind the chosen piece, connecting attendees with deeper feelings or energy they may or may not be aware of. This heartfelt experience moved many partners to tears of joy and nostalgia, creating unforgettable memories and endless conversations.

Hand Embroidered Hats: The hats are beautifully embroidered by a talented team of seamstresses from Punta Mita, led by Juana. Each hat is a labor of love, requiring up to 8 hours of meticulous work. These women not only support their families through their craft but also pass on their skills to the younger generation, ensuring the continuation of this beautiful tradition.

Handmade Sandals: Crafted by a beloved family of artisans, our sandals tell a story with every stitch. From the insole molds to the final details, these sandals honor the traditional craftsmanship of Mexican shoemaking. Each pair is a celebration of the artisans' dedication and expertise.

Impact and Community

Our time at IPS Punta Mita 2024 was so much more than just showcasing our products; it was about making a real difference. This event allowed us to provide work opportunities to four different companies and families of artisans, contributing with over $10,000. But it wasn't just about the money—it was about recognizing and celebrating the incredible talent and hard work of these amazing artisans. Seeing the impact we could make was truly heartwarming and inspiring.

We are incredibly proud of the connections we made with all the partners and the stories we shared. Each gift chosen by the attendees carried a piece of Mexico's vibrant culture and the loving hands that crafted them. Our collaboration with these artisans highlights our deep commitment to preserving traditional crafts and supporting local communities. It’s moments like these that remind us of the beauty and impact of our work, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

As we look back on our experience at IPS Punta Mita 2024, our hearts overflow with gratitude and pride. This event was more than just a success—it was a celebration of connections made with planners and partners who share our deep passion for creating unforgettable, meaningful experiences. We are excited for what the future holds, eager to collaborate further, and dedicated to our mission of showcasing Mexico's beauty and craftsmanship to the world.

Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, and to all the attendees who embraced our artisanal gifts. Together, we are creating a brighter future for these talented artisans and their communities.

Market for Zoom Group

The client requested 2 market experiences in 2 different dates:

June 14th: Hat & Jewelry Station for 335 people.

All attendees were able to pick either a hat or a piece of jewelry, the budget was max $75 usd without them knowing the cost of each item displayed, the event was super fun exceeded all expectations, the favorite station was jewelry and many of the attendees were the wives of the executives and they though it was a thoughtful experience to consider jewelry for them as well.

June 15th: Mexican Market Experience for 335 people.

All attendees were handed out an envelope with $40 usd on it that would help them purchase any item displayed, from keychains and beaded pens to luxurious items such as bags, blankets, hand painted frames, barro negro and many more crafts.

Supplier Story:

The most expected station was def the jewelry station where we were able to invite 2 wonderful artisans who not only are immensely talented but are the definition of strong woman, both of them are side hustling as they already have a full-time job and with their amazing talent and drive are now living their dream by having a women-owned company. Alma & Yaritza are incredible women who definately think big-picture and always go above and beyond with any task or project they are asked for.

The jewelry collection they both created for this event was inspired in the pacific sea; Pearls, shells and flowers jewelry pieces were some of the most favorite pieces the attendees were selecting during the market experience on June 14th.

Alma & Yaritza were deeply impacted by considering them both on this event, Alma was able to give maintenance to the laser machine she uses to create her MDF jewelry pieces, she was also able to purchase the material she was hoping to buy for a new collection she was planning to create for summer this year (it will be called Acqua), the collection for this event was made with so much care and dedication and it took 45 days approximately to handcraft each of her pieces with the help of her beloved husband who is with her every step of the way.

Yaritza had a mission of selling all the jewelry pieces she created with so much effort and love, she was committed to connect with the attendees and share a bit about the story behind her brand and she not only fulfilled her mission but she was also able to take beautiful pictures at the event of attendees wearing her collection which inspire her and motivated her to continue working on more collections for the summer, she created great content from the event and is currently looking for unique material.

⭐

Baja Summer Jam

Last June we had the opportunity to participate in the Baja Summer Jam, a fundraising event that supports two civil associations dedicated to the rescue of dogs and cats, PET & Dog Darma.

The event was at Metate Restaurant in Cabo San Lucas, therefore it was full of food, drinks, local bands, and a great environment.

We were invited to set up a station to sell our most coveted Eclectic Array Designs products as hand-woven dog leashes, dog collars, and poop bags and part of the earnings went directly to the pet shelters.

Besides our daily corporate markets & wedding events, we love to have this kind of opportunity which allows us to support local associations and of course, contribute by giving a little happiness to our furry community.

Daily Gifting Experience

This time we had the opportunity to be part of Chevron’s program which was of 4 days and 112 people plus their staff at the Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita. This program consisted of a daily gifting service, a sunglass reception and market experience.  

On the first two days, we gave welcome kits to the attendees. They received as a room drop plastic handwoven bags with one of our top 10 products for sun care “day tripper” and cotton beach blankets.

On the midday, we set up a sunglass reception in Punta Sayulita, an exclusive private complex where VIP attendees got to pick their favorite pair of DIFF sunglasses by the time they arrived at the venue. Once they choose them, they continue to enjoy the place with some fun activities.

As we can customize every item, we got asked to make some clothes with the group logo, so they surprised them at the welcome dinner the night before with the cloth and a card explaining DIFF and how they would get the glasses the next day.

We continue the program surprising the attendees with a cute kit of black clay pig salseros set with two types of salsas. The kits were decorated with a colorful ribbon, in a palm basket with wrinkle paper.

On the last day of the program, we finalize it with an afternoon Mexican Artisan Market, which consisted of 9 stations: hats, snacks and candies, Otomí designs, Huichol art, t-shirts, sandals, pottery, jewelry, and Mexican souvenirs. For the convenience of the attendees, we offered the room delivery service by the hand of the hotel. After their market experience people enjoyed dinner with a gorgeous sunset view by the beach and received wooden hand-painted Talavera design photo frames as room drops.

Supplier Story:

Our highlight during this event was Yolanda and Patricia’s work. Both producers made the Pig Salseros Set which was one of the favorites of the program.

Our unequaled barro negro or black clay pig salseros were made by dear artisan and friend Yolanda in San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca. Yolanda made these pieces by hand using a brick oven to give them form.

On the other hand, salsas were made by Patricia, a supportive mom that helps her entrepreneur daughter Ana Paula with her business of candies and snacks in Guadalajara, Jalisco. With the profits of their business, they get to pay for Ana Paula’s College education.

Market Experience for Zoom Incentive Trip - Los Cabos 2023

We had the opportunity to be part of the rewards program to be the best employees of this amazing company through two personalized hat markets and a jewelry station. Attendees were able to pick from a hat or a jewelry piece.

The event was super fun and exceeded all expectations, the jewelry station was a hit; many of the female attendees were surprised to be specially considered. And felt in love when knowing the story behind it

For our popular jewelry station, we had the privilege of inviting two amazing artisans who not only possess immense talent but also embody the spirit of strong women. Both Alma and Yaritza are remarkable individuals who juggle full-time jobs while pursuing their dreams of owning a women-owned company. Their passion and dedication to their craft are truly inspiring.

The jewelry collection they created for this event drew inspiration from the magnificent Pacific Sea. Attendees couldn't get enough of the exquisite pieces featuring pearls, shells, and flowers, which became instant favorites.

Alma and Yaritza were deeply moved by the opportunity to participate in this event. Alma dedicated herself to maintaining the laser machine she uses to craft the pieces. Each piece in the collection for this event was meticulously handcrafted with love and took approximately 45 days to complete. Alma's supportive husband stood by her side throughout the process, offering unwavering encouragement.

Yaritza set out on a mission to sell every single jewelry piece she had poured her heart and soul into. She made it her priority to connect with the attendees, sharing the captivating story behind her brand. Not only did she accomplish her mission, but she also captured beautiful photographs of the attendees wearing her collection at the event. These pictures served as inspiration and motivation for Yaritza as she continues to work on more stunning collections for the summer. She is currently on the lookout for unique materials to further fuel her creative endeavors."

Mezcal gifting + Leather Workshop

This gifting request was for a small private event at the Four Seasons Hotel. At this meeting a tasting of mezcal was held in a very traditional way, with Jicaras, and each Jicara was accompanied by a souvenir bag to take away. After the meeting, they carried out a small activity where the participants chose a leather bookmark and manually engraved their initials.

Artisans

The Jicaras are collected from the famous Morro Tree by Javier Marcial and his family in Pinotepa de Don Luis, Oaxaca. Once they collect the fruit, the pulp is removed from the inside, and they have to wait aprox 5 days until it dries out, then, the hand carve begins; each design is one of a kind that evokes biodiversity and is popularly used for drinking mezcal and other traditional drinks. Javier has been doing this for 17 years, he is proud of his art and his traditions.

The leather bookmarks were made by Enrique Duarte, a local artisan originally from Puerto Vallarta. Sköll Laser Studio is where the magic happens, it was born from the idea of creating unique and different products using natural and recyclable resources as the main material.

QUOTE YOUR GIFTING AND WORKSHOPS at merakiobjects@eclecticarray.com

The art behind blown glass

Perhaps you have never wondered about it, but do you know how glass sculptures and vases are made? The answer is in the art of blown glass. This technique involves molding the material with heat and, as the name suggests, blowing.

Glass Blowing is one of the most famous glass craft techniques, which consists of creating air bubbles in the mass of molten glass with the help of a metal tube or straw. Once the bubble is created, the glazier proceeds to mold the glass to shape it according to the desired product.

The creation of blown glass figures consists of several phases to obtain the final product:

1st stage: The glass is melted in ovens at ultra-high temperatures to obtain a thick and moldable mass.

2nd stage: The mass is collected with a metal tube and the artisan starts blowing on it to inflate it. It's worth mentioning that, with the evolution and the passing of the years, many blown glass factories have machinery that is responsible for carrying out these processes in an automated manner. We work with factories that still do it in the traditional way, reason why no piece is equal to the other. 

3rd stage: After obtaining the bubble, the dough begins to be shaped to the desired form, with the help of different types of tweezers and scissors.

Finally, the blown glass figure is put back in the oven for 8 hours to finish cooking the dough and obtain the final result.

Although it reads like something simple, this process really takes a long time to execute, involves many people and requires a lot of skill. 

The earliest art of this kind was discovered around 3,000 BC and the technique of glass-blowing around the year 100 BC. It was introduced to Mexico in 1535 by Spanish artisans from Europe.

The technique of manufacturing glass has evolved since the sixteenth century, and there are certain areas in Mexico that still follow the age-old glassblowing technique to create rustic, hand-blown crafts, from glasses, vases plates and decoration items to amazing pieces of art.

If you’re interested in this technique and want to include it in your gifting, send us an email at merakiobjects@eclecticarray.com and let’s find the perfect option for your events.

A Unique Way to Celebrate Achievements

Personalized Mexican Huichol Awards

The Huichols or Wirarikas are an indigenous community that lives in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains of Mexico. They are known for their stunning artwork and traditional crafts, which often feature intricate beadwork and bright colors. In recent years, Huichol art has gained international recognition as a true form of cultural expression.

Our clients love to incorporate Huichol art into their events. A great way to do it is with personalized awards that reflect the essence of the country and this unique culture.

We’ve done beaded paddle rackets, whale tales, donkeys and more.

Huichol pieces can range from beaded animal sculptures to jewelry, wall hangings, and much more. There are many variations of awards that can be created to meet your event needs, including incorporating your company's logo, designing them in your company’s logo palette, adding the name of the event, date, and more!

For upscale high-end awards, there is no better way to go.

QUOTE YOUR AWARDS at merakiobjects@eclecticarray.com