Xula Handmade

Happy Sunday South Florida!

I’m all ready and setup at ! I’m here until 4pm and there are tons of other handmade vendors, food trucks and music 🫶🏽

Shop the nearest arrivals from Mexico that are not on the website yet 💛

Fair trade? I know where I stand on this 👇
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Making a positive impact through fair trade is at the very heart of what I do here at Xula Handmade.
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At my core, I believe that everyone can own a beautiful, one-of-a-kind fashion accessory at an affordable price, all while helping make a positive impact on artisans in Mexico who carefully craft each piece.
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One way that I infuse this every single day?
I make sure to work directly with artisans or with co-ops (cooperativas), which are autonomous associations of artisans that set their own prices and timelines. I never haggle with them and always pay them 100% of the asking price. I make sure that they have enough money to invest in the materials in order for them to start any order and I NEVER rush them to get things done quicker. If there's a delay, well...there's a delay - it's Mexico lol.
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All Xula Handmade items are never mass-produced, which means that they're being made by hand or using a backstrap loom, which can take days. And lastly, I like to truly establish long-lasting relationships with the same artisans and not "shop around" for the best price. I love being able to support the same families over and over.
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And this?
Ultimately makes a better product and experience for YOU. You know that you're not only receiving a one-of-a-kind item, but your dollar is going a long way. You're making a positive impact and supporting not only a small business but also artisan families in Mexico.
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As a customer, what are your thoughts on fair trade? And tell me, how can I do this better for you?
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I’m moving back to Mexico 🇲🇽💔

Such a tough choice but I truly miss the constant family fiestas y reconnecting with my family and enjoying all things Mexico.

If you’ve gotten this far, you just fell for my April Fools joke 😂👏🏻

Don’t get me wrong, if the circumstances were right, I would in a heart beat go back and live there. But for now, I’ll stay content in my little summer oasis in Miami 🌼

Did you fall for the joke?

It’s Flashback Friday here at Xula Handmade and I thought, why not swipe through some long-ago (I’m talking
my first-ever pop-up event and one of my first products) and some not-so-long-ago memories (right up to the most recent handmade earrings added to the shop last week).
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I love these photos because each image represents a stage of my business I’m so proud of. Things have changed. Evolved. Grown.
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And I’m so proud of this business and how it has flourished.
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My biggest achievement so far? Growing my business every year since its inception and continuing to nurture my partnerships with our artisans.
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And one thing I’m certain of? 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞’𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐗𝐮𝐥𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞.

It’s time for some real talk.
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When it comes to wearing trendy fashion accessories, it shouldn’t be about it being trendy *OR* fair trade.
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This mindset is soooooo 2022. And it needs to go.
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BECAUSE IT CAN BE BOTH!!!!
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Because when trendy fashion accessories and fair trade go hand in hand, you can feel good about what you wear while knowing that it made a positive impact on someone else's life.
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You can wear a one-of-a-kind piece knowing that the person who created it received fair wages to produce it. You can be at peace that the Xula item you purchased wasn't mass-produced and was handmade by a REAL person.
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Want to see for yourself what this looks like?
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Scroll through to see some examples of how trendy fashion accessories and fair trade work incredibly well together in .
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And let me know in the comments your thoughts on these two things going hand in hand to work for you. 👇🏼

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the many women in our lives and the importance that they (and we!) play every day.
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Take today as an opportunity to tag a woman in your life, or a woman you admire (from near or afar) and let them know what you appreciate most about them.
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I'll go first. I admire a ton of small-biz women here on IG - but here are some that continue to keep me inspired:

& - truly admire their ability to photograph their products beautifully

- I admire that she's always prioritizes self-care while running a business and that has led me to do the same for myself

- I've been obsessed with her video creation skills showcasing her fair trade products

- I admire her great sense of fashion and style using her textile accessories

⭐ 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗛 ⭐ - Our Frida Tassels!
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I just had to show Frida some love during Woman's History Month! Frida Kahlo was a rule-breaker, a total trendsetter, and a person that broke the mold back in her day.

That's why I'm celebrating her with 𝟮𝟬% 𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗔 𝗧𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗟𝗦 for the entire month of March! Use code FRIDABOSS at checkout.
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Swipe left to see how customers have used their Frida tassels!
- Use as a bag charm
- Use as a wall decor item
- Hang on a doorknob
- Use as a car charm
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Now go on, pick yours, and be fearless like Frida! Link in bio to shop!

Last call for your free shipping gift!
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Chulas, I wanted to let you know how much your support has meant to me and my small business.
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You shopped with me, liked and shared my posts, and supported and cheered me on in 100 other ways so I want to take this opportunity to let you know how grateful and happy that makes me!
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If I could meet you in person, I’d give you a big hug. But since I can’t, I thought I’d give you a special gift - FREE SHIPPING to use on anything in my shop. I have made it valid until tonight!
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Snag something for yourself or share it with an amiga, because sharing is caring! Just use code FEBSHIP2023 at checkout!

I just really want to know…
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What is your favorite thing about supporting a fair trade brand?
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For me? Without a doubt, it’s the impact.
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Why? Because I know that my purchase not only positively impacts the artisan who made it but also helps out a small business. Not only am I buying something cute that I'll wear for years, but it wasn't mass-produced and it's most likely one-of-a-kind- making it ultra special. ✨
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Tell me yours in the comments - What is your favorite thing about supporting a fair trade brand?

Did you know, I just sent out a special gift to everyone on my email list?
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The response was SO great, that I want to offer it to you here as well. Use the code FEBSHIP2023 for free shipping on anything in my shop until February 28th.
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By the way, if you don’t want to miss out on future deals, you’d better go sign up for my emails now (link in bio)
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But above all, I just want to thank you all for being an amazing community. Thank you for being here and supporting me and my business. I know you’re a real person, with a big life, and you’re taking the time to read my posts and visit my shop.
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And since I’m a real person too, I want you to know how grateful I am. I love that you’re part of my audience here.
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If there’s anything I can do for you, don’t hesitate to DM me. I read every message from every customer. Pinkie promise!
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xoxo,
Jess

Dear Galentine, want a FREE Embroidered Heart Tassel? 💖
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It's easy! Simply make a purchase of $30 or more on the website between today and tomorrow and you'll get this free embroidered heart tassel (valued at $16) included in your order - no code needed!
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You can add this lovely tassel as a bag charm or as a keychain!
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Shop Now at xulahandmade.com
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Limited quantities are available and the promo ends tomorrow at midnight.
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Did you miss our restock announcement yesterday?
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We restocked some of our best-selling items yesterday on the website and they're now live on the site!
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The overwhelming response to all these items during the holidays and in-person market events SOLD US OUT!
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There are limited quantities available so take your pick before they're gone again. Lots of clutches, earrings and poms to pick from. 💛
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A few days ago our 'Say it from the Heart' collection arrived and I'm all about it because it's perfect for valentine's day.
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This Valentine's Day, give your loved one (or Galentine) a gift that speaks for itself - a symbol of love and friendship.
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Shop our one-of-a-kind collection of hearts - from embroidered heart tassels to hang em' on their bag or car, to beautifully crafted wall decor pieces.
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Check out the entire collection via the link in our bio!

SNEAK PEEK ALERT! I have some exciting new arrivals to our 'Say it from the Heart' collection!
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This is a curated collection of everything hearts in our shop, which includes new heart handmade items dropping this Friday, Jan/19!
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Swipe left to see some of the new items dropping! Which one do you have your eye on?

Want to know the best way to care for your new textile accessories?

Here are the top care tips!
1. Never pull on a loose thread. Cut it with scissors instead.
2. If you have an accessory with a tassel, brush it lightly with a comb to keep it neat.
3. Always spot clean. Never throw your item in the washing machine. Remember, these items are hand embroidered!

Do you have any questions about how to care for your textile accessory? If so drop them in the comments and I can help!

Happy New Year! 🎇 I wanted to start off the year with a GIVEAWAY with 7 of our Ethically Made friends!
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Here’s how to enter 👇🏼
✨ Like this post
✨ Follow
✨ Tag 3 people in the comments below
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So what are the goodies in play? Swipe to see them all:
• Handloomed Tote Bags and Burgundy Tiered Tassel Earrings from
• Set of 3 Adventure Collection bracelets from
• Flourish plant hanger from jubileetradingco
• Nesting Baskets Set from
• Sling Bag and Terrazzo Hoops from
• Addis Toiletry Bag from
• Ollie Hearts Giraffe from
• $50 gift card from
✨ Total value of +$300!
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The giveaway is open from Jan/12 - Jan/16 and the winner will be announced on the 17th. Open to the U.S.. only. This giveaway is not sponsored or associated with Instagram, Facebook or Meta.

Oh hey there! So I thought today that I’d re-introduce myself for those of you who don’t know too much about me OR for those wanting to know more, so here it goes!
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I'm Jess, a first-generation Mexican-American and founder of Xula Handmade. I was always brought up to honor my Mexican heritage and keep traditions going, even if I was far away from Mexico.
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Living in Mexico as a teenager really opened up my eyes to the rich and exciting culture of Mexico. I fell in love - HARD.
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So naturally, I knew that whenever I decided to start my journey as a , I wanted to create opportunities for artisan women and reconnect back with my Mexican roots.
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In 2020, I visited several Mexican textile markets in Chiapas, filled with fun, artisanal textile accessories and P**F. The idea of Xula Handmade was born!
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It's been 3 years now and it has been quite a ride - a fun one! Thanks for following my journey - I got some super exciting collections and things planned for 2023!

Merry Christmas from our all-time favorite and loved Frida tassel!

Incredibly grateful for all the support and love this entire year - grateful for you Chula! 🎄💛

CALLING ALL FRIDA LOVERS!
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For all the Frida fans in the world, you may know what makes Frida so special however, for the readers that don’t know Frida Kahlo you are about to learn why these gifts are a MUST HAVE!
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Now scoop up one of these beautiful gifts to keep just a small piece of Frida Kahlo’s spirit close by! All these items are from a Latina-owned small business, which makes these gift ideas extra special!
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Continue encouraging those around you by painting the world with color. Whether it be an empowering t-shirt or a striking hand-crafted Frida Kahlo tassel on every accessory of your life, any of these items will give the gift of inspiration.
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Shop small with any of these Latina-owned small shops and spread the joy!

I’m beyond excited to back at !
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If you’re local to South Florida, come shop with us and pick up the one-a-kind gifts you’ve been eying on the website!
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Even way before becoming a vendor, I loved these craft fairs because I ALWAYS found something super special and there’s so much diversity. Super fun!
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Here’s what you need to know:
• There will be over 85 Makers! Perfect to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts 🎁
• Mimosas will be on special for $5!
• There will be free DIY craft make and takes!
• Food trucks will be onsite!
• They will be giving away 100 swag bags plus hosting their usual handmade giveaways!
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PS - if you mention this post when you stop by, I’ll include a free gift with your purchase 💛✨
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See you this weekend! 😊

"It makes a great gift for friends!"
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I love how much our customers love our tote bags, so much that some of them buy them for their friends and then come back for another one because they want one too!
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Here's what they got to say about them:
✨ "I bought this as a gift for a good friend. She loved it. She said the colors are beautiful and it's really well made. Highly recommend!"
✨ "Beautiful textile with very vibrant colors. Will be perfect as an evening bag. So happy with this purchase"
✨ "This tote is not only beautiful, but it's sturdy, incredible well-made, and thoughtfully crafted"
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Only a couple of colors left! Which one will you grab for yourself or a friend?

NEW GIFT SETS! 🎁✨
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We all have that ONE person in our life that we just don't know what to gift them. That's exactly why I created these beautiful ready-to-gift bundles that you won't find anywhere else.
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There's only ONE gift set available in every variation you see here and won't be restocked. That's how you know that you're giving a one-of-a-kind gift that they will love.
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Also, each purchase helps empower artisan women in Mexico and by shopping small, you'll be making a true impact.
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Shop them under our Holiday Gift Guide > Curated Gift Sets!
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PS. Did I mention there's only one of each left?

Uyyy Chula! You don't want to miss tomorrow's live, Wednesday @ 8:30pm ET!
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Shop the latest drop, the Sacred Heart Collection, where I'll show you the latest tin hearts that recently got added to the website (PLUS new tin hearts!)
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Which item are you hoping to see? If so, go to my profile and click on the IG Live reminder so you don't miss it!

What's ONE thing that you absolutely love about Fall?🍂
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I don't get to experience Fall like the rest of the country since it's basically Summer the entire year here in South Florida (hello heat and humidity). Don't get me wrong, I love that it's always sunny ☀️, but I do crave those chilly days here and there. And when we're lucky enough to get 70 degree weather, I immediately take out my boots, jacket and scarf! 😂
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I also looove changing out the decor in my home soo, naturally, I HAD to hang these pretty to this space (I only have them available in Mustard Yellow right now ♥)
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Double-tap if you're also a fan of this styled home decor look! 🙋‍♀️

“The day which we fear as our last is but the birthday of eternity.” - Seneca 💀✨

"They're fluffy and cute but how would I even use them?"
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I get this question a lot and totally get how many people aren't used to seeing handmade poms and tassels, so it's hard for them to visualize their functionality! But in fact, you can use tassels in so many ways and repurpose their use! (hello slow fashion!) Swipe right to see their many uses!
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1. Use them as Bag Charms: Hang these boho-chic poms and tassels on your favorite tote, backpack or handbag!
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2. Hang as a Cute Car Charm: Why not add a bit of personality to your car with your one-of-a-kind car accessory! Perfect to hang on your rearview mirror.
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3. Use them as a Keychain: Use your pom or tassel as your new fave keychain! Hint: It will also make it much easier to find your keys in your bag!
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4. Use them as decor pieces: Looking to add a boho-chic vibe to a nursery or living space? Add a pom! It will surely add a special spark of love to any room, we promise.
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5. Use them as ornaments: Dress up your Christmas Tree different this year with Felt Ornaments! Don't stop with the Christmas Tree - you can also create a custom wreath and add your favorite tassels!
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As you can see, you can use your new poms and tassels in SO many ways! Which way would you use them?

I love that we all get a clean slate on Monday!
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Here's how I usually prep for my week (usually on Sunday) to start off my Monday's the right way:
✨ Organize and declutter my desk
✨ My to-do list is ready for the week so I know what projects I'm working on
✨ Cook some meals to get me through the first half of the week
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How do you prep to start off your Monday's the right way?
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PS - In case you missed the announcement, this Friday at 12pm ET I'm launching our first batch of Sacred Hearts, perfect for gifting or decorating your wall/office! Click on the first link in bio to sign up for alerts! ✨

Do you ever smell something that brings you back in time to a memory or place?
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The fresh scent of Cempasuchil (also known as Marigolds) brings me back to my first year living in Mexico (I was 14), when I experienced my first Dia de Los Mu***os.
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Our school would divide us into groups and we would have to build an altar to later showcase it to the public at night on Nov 1.
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It would literally take a team of 8 an entire day to make a 6 ft. high Dia de los Mu***os altar - some would focus on building the structure, while others went to the local Mercado to pick up loads of cempasuchil flowers, fruit, food and papel picado to decorate. The whole school smelled like cempasuchil flowers and looking back, I'm so thankful that I was able to experience it as a teen.
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This year I won't be building a 6 ft altar haha, but my small but mighty altar as all set up to remember our loved ones the have passed.
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What's one thing that when you smell it, it transports you back in time?

Ever wish you could go back in time and tell yourself something you now know?

Me too. 🙋🏻‍♀️ If I could go back in time, I’d tell my former self that taking messy action is better than it being super perfect. The world is not going to end of its not “perfect”. This is a recovering perfectionist telling you this. 🤌🏼

Did you know that my first messy action was launching Xula Handmade two years ago? My younger self would’ve have waited months to launch it - perfect pictures, perfect product, perfect time.

Luckily, that didn’t stop me. I’m so glad I didn’t listen to that “annoying” perfectionist inner voice and well…here I am!

Now, what would you tell your younger self?

So, what are nichos? 🤨
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A 'nicho’, is a three-dimensional or recessed display box, very similar to a shadow box, where some use it as a type of shrine as a way to honor or commemorate a person that has passed away. 😇

As Day of the Dead approaches, nichos are used as part of altars and ofrendas to remember and honor the deceased.
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When I saw these during my latest trip to Mexico, I KNEW I needed to bring them back for you.

My partner artisans in Mexico always amaze me by their incredible talent, and I hope you love these nichos as much as I do! ✨💛
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PS - There are only TWO nichos left and they won’t be restocked! Link in bio to shop!