A Fair Trade Retailer

Ten Thousand Villages, named one of the world’s most ethical companies again in 2010, offers fair trade shopping in the Smoky Mountains!

This non-profit retailer opened its doors on August 6 in the Belz Annex on Teaster Lane.  Inside you’ll find a relaxing, culture-filled atmosphere and friendly faces eager to share a cup of coffee and the beautiful artwork and handicrafts of artisans from over 38 countries around the world.

The store features home decor, tableware, baskets, personal accessories and jewelry, and global treasures and collectibles.   There are gifts and decorations from Haiti, Uganda, India, Peru and the Phillippines just to name a few.  Several pieces even have the name of the artist on the tag.  The items are as unique as you will find anywhere, and would make wonderful additions to any home.   Getting married in the Smokies?  You can create a wedding registry in store or online that celebrates your special event and your values.

When to stop by, be sure to have that complimentary cup of coffee and even join the Coffee Club!  You can register at the counter for their enewsletter offering the latest Ten Thousand Villages news and special discounts.  The sales associates are also more than willing to introduce you to the concept and principles of Fair Trade that include:

• Providing opportunities for Third World producers who are economically unable to participate in the conventional trading system
• Help develop those producer’s independence to build sustainable operations
• Fair purchase prices
• Equal wages for equal work among men and women, and gender equality
• Safe and healthy work environments for all artisans

Say hello to Ashley and Debbie and have a wonderful time discovering treasures of the world!

Shop Tax Free August 6-8

Tax Free Back-to-School Shopping

This coming weekend is your opportunity to shop tax free for clothes, school supplies, and computers at some of the best outlet shopping malls in the area! The 2010 Sales Tax Holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. on August 6 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 8.

Purchases don’t have to be for students; they just cannot be purchases made for business use. Now is the time to get your new home computer, get Grandma hooked up with laptop, and purchase clothing for the entire family! Here are detailed lists of items eligible for tax savings:

Tax Free Clothing Tax Free School Supplies Tax Free Computers

To help you make the most of this much anticipated holiday, we have a few suggestions for you.

1. Book your reservations with us and plan to arrive no later than Thursday.

2. Make your shopping list while relaxing by the swimming pool and then get a good night’s rest.

3. Rise early, eat a hearty breakfast, and put on your most comfortable shoes.

4. Review your bargain hunting game plan and Go Get Those Deals!

Don’t forget to use our $10 Off coupon for your stay!