Earth Friendly Gifts: Empowering the 'Munti Gunung' Community

Journey to one of the driest parts of Bali, Indonesia

Living between Bali and California is truly a blessing where we get to enjoy the best of both worlds. Opening our eyes to different communities has only taught us to be humble and motivate our desire to give back to society. One of the latest project collaboration is one we are proud of because it echoes with our values and mission in supporting and empowering communities who needs it the most. 

1 World Family trekking with the locals for an excursion to Munti Gunung

We partnered up with the beautiful people of Munti Gunung after visiting their village tucked away in the North of Bali, Indonesia. These poor and malnourished families are working under a social enterprise that aims to 'create employment opportunities & improved quality of life for disadvantaged families, the program has also secured a clean & sustainable water supply, as well as access to healthcare & education'. We wanted to learn more about their project and so we signed up for a trek organized by the community themselves. This really helped us to understand their difficulty in getting access to water and seeing the harsh reality of an 8 months dry season. Can you imagine what life would be like without access to water?

A big lake tucked between the Balinese hills, the only source of water for the Munti Gunung community.

The legendary Mount Batur surroundings.

Seeing is believing and through the trekking experience, we learned how the women used to trek for 4-5 hours from their homes to the nearest Lake Batur to collect as much water as they can carry and then trek back the same path to get to their families. Thanks to the 'Future of Children' project they have managed to built water tanks to collect rain water to sustain themselves without having to travel a far and long time to attain water. With a quota of 25 liters per family per day, we trekked through the panoramic sights with our thoughtful minds, imagining what it's like to have to do this everyday not for leisure but for survival.

Our pathfinder aka. guide from the village. She woke up at 4am to get a head start of the trek in order to meet us at 6am. 

Serene sights of the hilly slopes of North Bali along the way giving us a tranquil mind to fully absorb the experience.

Our elderly guide walked on strong and calm, smiling at the younger ones as they struggled to keep up with her pace.

Needless to say, it was an empowering experience both physically and mentally. Upon arrival to the village, we were introduced to a lovely group of women who were hand weaving baskets with their adorable children cuddled in their arms and they fulfilled their motherly duties while hand making baskets in order to earn a living. Their genuine smiling faces melted our hearts and we were so happy to get to know the amazing artisans who would weave our gift baskets.

These women use to be prone to begging with their children on the streets in the urban side of Bali. They now have a means of income to feed their families.

With dedication and talent, the women were taught the art of weaving, spending a few hours in their day to fulfill their job responsibilities.

We learned so much from this expedition and we're glad that we get to share this story. You get the opportunity to help out in making a positive change with the simplest gesture. These gift packs are more than just a gift box, it transcends the stories of a group of women who survive on these jobs in order to sustain their everyday lives. Hand weaving 'lontar baskets' was one of the means of activities in generating income for these women. These organic gift boxes are made from naturally sourced local tall fan palms that is traditionally known for its high yielding and sustainable hard wood and sweet sap.

After drying the Lontar leaves, they use a compressor machine  to flatten the material.

Natural material ready to be stripped for weaving.

They use the thinner strips to start weaving into various shapes.

It's the most wonderful time of the year to give and we would like to encourage you to support our path towards a more sustainable focused life. Check out our beautiful hand woven gift boxes made by the wonderful people of Munti Gunung and know that with every purchase you can work with us towards helping others and creating hope for humanity.

The product outcome of the Munti Gunung hand weaving skills that are beautiful and practical, be it for gifts or storage.

Thanksgiving: 10 Things We Are Grateful For This Year

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we made a list to celebrate gratitude. We're in our 16th year in business and we're so blessed to be able to say, it's been an amazing journey! Here are 10 things we are grateful for this year:

1)We had the means to sponsor several animal charities 

We love nature and animals so we want to give back where we can. We got the opportunity to work with The Amanda Foundation and Orangutan Republic. If you know of any organizations or charity that we should work with, please point us to the right direction.

2) We were able to revamp our warehouse and corporate offices

We did a makeover of 1 World Sarongs Southern California location where we set up a new photo studio so we can explore our creativity and take better photos of all our collection

3) We cut out Palm Oil and we recycle within in our offices

Our mission is to assimilate the art of sustainability in our business practices and so we're trying to be more aware with our actions.

4) Family time

Where would I be without my wife and kids? Says owner Terry Sherry. We couldn't agree more. There's nothing more important than quality time with the people we love the most.

5) Faith in God and humanity

We maintain peace in our state of being and keep our core beliefs strong.

6) Great Customers both wholesale and retail

Loyal and supportive, nothing makes us happier than a happy customer! We are driven by what we do to bring happiness to all our customers. 

7) Support and synergy within 1 World Family Team 

More than just work colleagues, we are a family! We got a strong foundation of great people we work with both new and old.

8) Beautiful New Designs 

Thanks to our amazing team of artisans we work with in Bali, we launched a range of floral and colorful sarongs plus clothing. With fresh prints and patterns in our new arrivals, we take our passion for art seriously and hope to continue hand making beautiful designs inspired by Mother Nature and our travel adventures. We also launched a new line for kids sarongs, added more plus size and men sarong styles. 

9) We redesigned our e-store and launched our new website

That's right, we finally got a makeover after a long time and it was a big step for us! We needed to take it slow and made sure we worked out the kinks so we can continue to keep our customers happy. One of the common feedback from our customers when they shop with us at 1 World Sarongs is that they wanted better features and categorization for all our products so they can browse at ease. You can now have a great shopping experience on our updated website plus enjoy other features like product reviews and create wishlists. What else do you like about our new site?

10) Beautiful office locations in both South California and Bali

We get to work and live in two amazing destinations both California, USA and Bali, Indonesia. Living the dream!

Have you ever tried this little activity? It's great practice to remind ourselves about the simple things that matter and how important it is to be thankful in order to live a purposeful live. Through this list of gratitude, you get to take a step back and evaluate what you've accomplished for the year and continue to make the best out of the remaining days of 2016 and aspire for bigger dreams in 2017. It's an act of mindfulness to help with clarity of the mind and to allow ourselves to reconnect with the self and our surroundings. Here's what you need to do to create a 'gratitude list':

1) Free up a couple of hours and find a safe space. This could be anywhere, be it at home or at a park or by the beach. Wherever the location may be, it's important that you feel safe where you are.

2) You will need a paper and pen, maybe a diary or journal. Avoid using computers or phones, the idea is to unplug from distractions.

3) When you're ready, sit still and close your eyes. Take deep breaths and continue to breathe for 5 minutes. 

4) Once 5 minutes is up or whenever you feel at ease, open your eyes again and start writing. Every sentence should begin with - "I am thankful for........................"

5) Write from no.1 until no.10 whether you have less or more points, feel free to shorten or expand. What is key is that you continue to write without getting distracted and allow yourself to feel every memory and thought.

6) Take 30 minutes for this exercise. Take your time to write, do not force or rush the process. Once 30 minutes is up, take a step back. Then re-read your list again. You will be amazed by what you've written and you will start to think about the people in your life that you've given thanks to.

Try it out and tell us what you think! How did it feel? We would love to hear from you. Leave us a comment below.

Postcards from Samir and Hart: Costa Rica

'Pura vida' means pure life and that is exactly how we feel when Samir Janjua and Hart Sawyer sent us these amazing photos from Costa Rica. We've always dreamed about travelling to Costa Rica as we heard nothing but beautiful reviews from people who have been there. Strolling along the softest white sand beach and trailing through the rich tropical forests, one can find so much peace and happiness just by being here.

Short sarongs are great for beach walks.

Get this man sarong here.

Located in Central America, it seems to be one of the most live-able cities in the world and with wonderful beaches and people who reside there, it's pretty much self explanatory to why it's one of the most popular destinations of the world.

Secret trails to through an energizing experience with majestic waterfalls

Find cool Celtic designs for men

Soft white sheer sarong for jungle adventures

We got to admit. Once upon a time we did fantasize about booking a one way ticket, packing our bags and moving to Costa Rica. It's so beautiful over there, it's hard not to fall in love. What inspires us the most about this magical place other than the grand waterfalls and lush nature is that they aim to be fully carbon neutral by year 2021 which is totally in line with our values on sustainability.

Salty breeze on skin, life is good when you have the perfect blue sarong to match the mood

Happiness is a day at the beach

Cooling off with the fresh sea water

Finding serenity with Mother Nature. Shop for green sarongs here. 

If you want to learn more about this amazing travel destination, click here. We're going to sign off with Hart Sawyer's beautiful voice and the sound of her Ukelele. She created a song inspired by the air of Costa Rica. Pura vida!

 

Moiyshee X 1WS: 6 Ways to Wear a Sarong

Watch this video to learn cool new ways to accessorize and slay your favorite sarongs with Moiyshee. We love how she used a rubber band to tie the back of her sarong for the easy halter style and not to mention the funky head wrap look with just a few simple twists! If you want more style tips from this fashionista, check out her blog.

How to Layer Up for Fall

The warm and cozy weather of Fall is a great time to fall in love again. It's a contemplative season of change and a beautiful reminder for us to learn to let go. As we ease away from Summer to welcome colder days and feel the chilly breeze on skin, it's time to enjoy the art of layering. Take out your favorite texture, print and pattern materials, the best season to get dressed with a touch of creativity is here. Layering is one of the best ways to get dressed and it works for both men and women plus all body types and shapes. Using scarves or sarongs, anyone from all walks of life can have fun with the freedom of layering. From inner, middle and outer layer, you can style your scarves in so many different ways to match your mood for the season.

Want to have fun layering up with scarves? Too easy! You can also layer with sarongs if you want more fabric to experiment with. We have compiled scarf looks we love so you get 10 easy ideas to pull off this season:

1) Classy Neck-Kerchief

Gentle and pretty, a simple knot and bow around the neck works with any outfit be it pants or skirt or dress.

 2) Waist Belt

Not only do you get to wear the coolest belt in town but you get to define your waist line and have an outfit that flatters your body line.

3) Turbanista Head Wrap

Inspired by the great mamas of African culture, the turban look is great for bad hair days or for cold windy days to keep your scalp and head warm wrapped up in your favorite scarf fabric and print.

4) The Neck Loop

Get Kim Kardashian's scarf look here

Black is always a good idea. Shop here.

This style literally takes 2 seconds of your life to look amazing! From casual to night wear, the neck loop works with jeans or a pretty dress or whatever your heart pleases.

5) Throw Over Shawl

Find men scarves here

Guys! Tuck any colored scarves into your coat or jacket for that extra warmth. Be it at the movies or when you're out taking an evening stroll, this relaxed look is also a great way flaunt your favorite scarf designs. 

6) DIY Casual Top

Turn your scarves or half sarong or full sarong to a one of a kind top matched with jeans or pants. Whether it's a tube or toga or halter style, put on a belt for more definition and to keep your scarf top in place. 

7) Statement Neck Warmer

Image via Man Repeller

From the smallest to bigger fabric, this neck warmer style works best with loud and vibrant prints. If you were thinking to throw out your grandma's scarf, think again! Vintage patterns work wonders with this style. 

8) Hat Decor

If you been wearing your hat far too often these days, switch it up and make it as if it's a brand new hat by tying your favorite scarves around it. The flowy touch to your hat will make you look so glamorous!

9) Cool Sash

Image via Man Repeller

This effortless style is great for lazy weekends or for a quick run to the grocery store with your family. It keeps you warm and makes you look fashionable without even trying hard. 

10) Comfy Blanket Scarf

Some days the wind gets really cold and all we really want to do is to stay in bed. With the blanket scarf, you get to move around with so much comfort and ease as though you're tucked in bed. How amazing is that?

You know what they always say, scarves NEVER goes out of style, no matter what print and patterns you may own you can only always count on your scarves to be there for you through thick and thin. They are amazingly versatile and functional plus you get to use your imagination and use creativity to find your own style. Give these looks a try and let us know how it worked out for you. 

May you and your loved ones have a blessed and beautiful Fall. No better time to get cozy and cuddle up!

So much love,

1 World Family

Postcards from Rachel: Ubud, Bali

Bali is a magical island that needs no introduction. They call it the 'island of Gods' which can only be felt and understood once you travel there and experience it on your own. If you want to dive deeper into the culture and spirituality of Bali, Ubud would be a good destination to start with. Famous from the movie 'Eat, Pray, Love', there's something really mystical about this little town. Maybe the fact that it's located at 200m above sea level that brings this natural sense of relaxation. I have once read somewhere that mountains are attributed to a high vibratory frequency which is why a lot of sacred temples and monasteries of the world can be found on higher altitudes. I am not sure if it's a proven theory but I can validate that theory by how I feel when I am high up on the mountains. 

If you ever get a chance to travel to Ubud, you must take time to discover the beautiful houses and villas tucked away in an oasis of greenery. Recently I packed my bikini, sarong and a good book for a weekend retreat to indulge in tranquility by the pool at Ubud Mana, located in a quaint village called Penestanan. With the sound of nature, swimming in a natural salt pool, it was all so serene and peaceful. With a beautiful weekend spent revitalizing for the week ahead, I am reminded about the simplest things in life we take for granted - gratitude. I believe it's important to make time for the Self to reflect and observe your thoughts and emotions after a week of productivity. If you need suggestions on where to go in Ubud town, just get in touch and I'll point you to the right directions. Namaste!

Spooky Sarong Tricks for a Killer Halloween

Planning a do-it-yourself kind of Halloween? Look no further. With just a couple of sarongs, you get to be the coolest kid on the block. If you want to be different for this holiday season in the most affordable and easiest way possible, you are in for a treat. From costumes to decor ideas, here are sarong tricks and spooky ways you need to know for Halloween:

1) Get Your Capes On

The easiest costume to pull off with any colored sarong. You can use capes and cloaks for so many different types of scary costumes such as a witch, vampire, dead superhero, fairy, zombie, magician, elf and so much more.

2) My Sarong Brings all Ghosts to the Yard

Want to have the spookiest yard in the neighborhood? Flowy and drapey, there's no better way to create ghost and spirit like formations than with white sarongs. Be it indoor or outdoor, you can turn scary characters to live with a dash of imagination. For an even cooler effect, put some fairy lights into the fillings so your characters can shine boo-tifully at night.

3) Light it Up

When night falls, create an eerie effect with dimmed lighting. Using a white or yellow light bulb, you can cover any light source with a white, red, green or any suitable sarong color to set a dark and haunting kind of mood.

4) That Creepy Table

Be it black, orange or dark purple - throw a solid color sarong over any table to create a Halloween themed dining area for your friends and family. Use cool party props to accessorize and give your table setting an edge.

5) Animal Spirit

From Caveman, Tarzan to Cat Woman and whatever your mind imagines, bring out your wild and feisty persona by dressing up with animal print costumes.

6) Horrific Photo Booths

Capture the moments by setting up a photo booth for your Halloween parties. Using sarong colors like red, black or white as a back drop together with any scary props, your friends and family get to have fun and take awesome photos dressed in their costumes.

What do you think? If you have any more sarong tricks and want to share your ideas, we would love to hear from you!

Have a Spooktacular Hallooween, folks!

- 1 World Family

*All photos are sourced from Pinterest