Buy Locally, Support Globally

2012-01-31T06:39:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled to be here at New York's Intl Gift Fair! If you happen to be at the show, please stop by and introduce yourself! five Accessories can be found in Booth #7052.

five ACCESSORIES Joins Leading Reward Shopping Sites

2012-01-25T09:08:00.000-08:00

Reward yourself today! Are you a member of Upromise (earn 3% back)? AAdvantage or United Shopping Mall? Priority Club? You can now shop through these program websites to earn rewards when shopping with us!

Aadvantage Shopping

United's Mileage Plus

Priority Club

Upromise

ShoppingFLING, you must be a member to view the merchant detail page.

Shoestring Venture Features Social Entrepreneur

2011-04-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

It was our privilege to be featured in an interview conducted by Steve Monas, co-author of the blg Shoestring Venture, in an ongoing series about social entrepreneurs.

This interview with Christine, our founder, shares the nuts and bolts of our socially conscious company. Not to mention the heart of the person behind it. We hope you learn a bit more about our social enterprise five ACCESSORIES as you read it.

Shoestring Venture is a more or less a consultng blog for those starting businesses. It is ran by Steve Monas, who has successfully launched a string of Web and entertainment business ventures. He currently lives in San Diego, where he enjoys an active lifestyle, and Richard Hooker, MBA, who heads up a Los Angeles marketing and advertising consulting agency that specializes in start-ups, turnarounds, and independent film. Together they have co-authored the book, Shoestring Venture: The Startup Bible.

Empowering Lives One at a Time

2011-03-29T06:45:00.000-07:00

As you know we have partnered with Smateria in Cambodia. Well, when we started working with them they had a staff of 35 a few short years ago. Today they now have 53 people on their staff. We are helping them grow!!! Empowering lives one at a time.

To see our new spring Cambodia handbags, which are fair trade, eco-friendly and goes to support our partners just mentioned, visit our website.

Good Book: Half the Sky

2011-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

I recently read the book, Half the Sky, by authors Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. It is about turning oppression into opportunity for women worldwide and about efforts to stimulate change in the Arab world.

This is a pretty powerful statement from Soraya Salti, a 37 yr old Jordanian woman promoting entrepreneurship in schools, "If you can capture the youth and change the way they think, then you can change the future." This quote should give all of us food for thought as we strive to teach and promote entrepreneurship to the younger generations.

Book: Half The Sky
Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide
Authors: Nicholas D.Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn
About efforts to stimulate change in the Arab world.
Available at any major bookstore.

Check out the Half the Sky Movement website.

Gift Certificate Donation to a Local Elementary School

2011-02-16T09:59:00.000-08:00

On February 26th, a local school, Blaine Elementary School, will be holding their annual Friends of Blaine Gala. It will be an evening of LIVE/SILENT auction, a generous 50/50 split RAFFLE, hors d’ oeuvres, cash bar, music and a bit of dancing! We were privileged to make a charitable donation of a $100 gift certificate donation. We hope Chicagoans will participate in their local schools through volunteering, donating and attending events that support our children's education.

A Face Behind Our Fair Trade Practices

2011-02-14T08:51:00.000-08:00

The eco-friendly purse or organic piece of clothing you just bought, have you ever really wondered where it originated? Who made it? Or how they made it? Well, at five ACCESSORIES, fair trade is fundamental to everything we do. We believe in knowing 'what's in your bag' or ' who made your bag'. Treating people fairly is the basis of our business and our primary purpose for doing business.

Featured here is Sophea. She has been working with our Cambodia partners, Smateria, since 2005. She started without any tailoring experience whatsoever. She was hired as a cleaner of recycled tetrapak fruit juice and milk boxes. Just a few months later she asked to try working as a basic tailor. Fast forward to 2011, six years later, she is currently the chief of Smateria's wallets production room. Wallets are technically the most difficult product to sew. (five currently carries two of those recycled wallets.)

This hardworking wife and mother of two, was unemployed prior to working with Smateria and her husband has always worked as a moto taxi driver. She is originally from the country side and recently bought her own house in her homeland - a big investment for her children and a safe place for her and her husband to retire to one day.

Sophea is just one face behind our Cambodian products whom we are helping. The five brand is not only about eco friendly handbags, it is about people.

Resource: Smateria
Also published at TheFairPages.com

Cool Gift Ideas for Valentines 2011 Chicago WGN-TV Midday News

2011-02-12T08:46:00.000-08:00

If you are shopping for that last minute gift for your sweetheart, here are some Cool Gift Ideas for Valentine's Day 2011 from Chicago WGN-TV Midday News, featuring Lindsey Roberts of The Gift Insider:

Charity Donation to Climate Cycle Event

2011-02-11T09:56:00.000-08:00

It was our privilege to make a charitable donation to the Climate Cycle Event happening tomorrow, February, 12th. We donated a $50 gift certificate to their silent auction.

We offer gift certificates in denominations of $25, $50, $75 and $100. Our gift certificates are redeemable by calling 312-504-3483 or by placing an order online.

Our Rootz.com Deal

2011-01-17T05:31:00.000-08:00

Get great deals on your favorite five ACCESSORIES shoulder bags, with a portion of the total donated back to the non-profit of your choice. Exclusively at Roozt.com!

five ACCESSORIES is excited and proud to announce that per its recent partnership with Roozt.com, we will be their featured Roozt Deal this coming Monday, January 17th! Purchase a $50 value shoulder bag, perfect for iPads, for just $23.00. That’s a savings of 54% off retail price!

Roozt.com is a “deal of the day” site that features products solely from environmentally and socially responsible companies at up to 80% off retail price, and donates 1% of every purchase made on its site back to the non-profit of the buyer’s choice. Each Roozt Deal is sold in limited quantity and runs for a limited time, good thru Tuesday, January 18th.

In order to take advantage of this and other equally awesome Roozt Deals, we encourage you to SIGN UP at http://roozt.com. It’s free to join, and they will send you three featured products per week at up to 80% off, directly to your inbox!

We are very excited to share this special offer with you, and hope you will take advantage!

Don’t forget to visit Roozt.com this Monday, January 17 to grab up a $50 value five ACCESSORIES ultra-hip shoulder bag for just $23!

StreetWise Vendor: Roark Moody

2010-12-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

Watch and learn more about StreetWise on their YouTube Channel.

Gifts that Give Back to Charity

2010-12-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

The holiday shopping season has begun. Corporate parties, family gatherings and visiting friends are just around the corner. These holiday gatherings usually require exchanging or bringing a small gift or hostess gift, so why not give something unique, yet eco-friendly and useful to everyone: a recycled picture frame.

This Christmas you can give back by giving this recycled picture frame handmade by five ACCESSORIES StreetWise vendors. Formerly homeless individuals are being employed by this fair trade company to produce their Off the Street product line, all of which are made of recycled material found in the streets of Chicago. From ticket stubs to pop top tabs these vendors are finding purpose, encouragement, as well as an income.

five ACCESSORIES and StreetWise vendors have already collected and recycled 12,000 ticket stubs. The picture frame reduces waste while helping people. The frames come in several styles: ticket stub, comics, and sports page and may even be customized with a company logo and given as corporate gifts.

Picture frames also make great baby shower gifts, birthday, anniversary and graduation gifts as well.

Founder, Christine Hutchison, says, “The purpose of our program is to instill pride and purpose through the making of products. We have built a lasting community atmosphere by bringing together college volunteers and interns to work closely with the vendors. One such example is Leticia Quinonez, a StreeWise Vendor who makes pop top bracelets. Her personalized hangtag quotes, ‘Don’t criticize the less fortunate, or you’ll walk the same path yourself.’”

On the back of Gearldine Williams' (who is pictured below with intern Rachel) hangtag she states,"Never Quit...Never."

Give back this holiday season by giving a this recycled picture frame, thus supporting StreetWise vendors and a fair trade company whose mission is to create income generating programs for people, donate a large portion of sales to charitable causes and to foster the use of sustainable material in fashion.

Guest Post submitted by Samantha MacLeod

Glitter: Holiday Shopping Events at Chicago Airports

2010-12-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

This week Glitter we were proud to be a part of two first time events at Chicago Airports. The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs joined together to bring 15 Chicago fashion designers to sell their fashion and jewelry accessories to the many travelers who pass through the Airports during the holiday season.

As you can see from the photos (first photo is of our founder at Midway and second one is of her at O'Hare), the five team was kept busy throughout the events.

We also attended the Glitter event last week, which was held at the Chicago Cultural Center.

At each event we have the opportunity to not only feature our eco friendly handbags and accessories, but also spread the word about how our designer fashion handbags give back: to our StreetWise vendors and other charities that we support around the world.

For more information about Glitter: A Holiday Shopping Event, please visit www.chicagofashionresource.com

Unique Holiday Gift Sale Benefits Homeless

2010-12-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

Columbia College student, Chandler Rollins, spent some time speaking with our founder, Christine Hutchison this week about the third annual fundraiser this Sunday, December 12th for StreetWise. Read his article:

Unique holiday gift sale on Sunday will benefit homeless

on ChicagoTalks.org

We'd like to thank Chandler and Columbia College for their mention and support. It means a lot to us to be able to spread the word about this event that will benefit the StreetWise vendors behind our Off the Street product line.

Holiday Charitable Giving

2010-12-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

On Friday and Saturday of the November 12th-13th weekend, we attended the Holiday Shopping Bazaar at the Chicago Yacht Club located on Belmont Avenue and the water. Each day we were there from 11 to 6 and 10 to 4. We had fun working, shopping, talking with friends and Yacht Club members. As a result of that successful event, we were able to give back 10% of our sales, donating them to the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation.

We appreciate everyone who turned out to support the Yacht Club Foundation, thus allowing us to participate in holiday charitable giving.

We had fun and we made a difference!

Daring Doer Feature - Christine Hutchison

2010-11-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

Success isn’t a matter of luck or chance. Success comes from many deliberate steps and a whole lot of hard work. That means success is completely within your control to make happen. ~ Today's
Hustle Tip on, Spark & Hustle.

Our founder, Christine Hutchison, is an ecopreneur whose focus is on building five ACCESSORIES into a nationally recognized eco friendly brand and social enterprise. We are not only proud of Christine for all she does here at five, but for her passion and desire to help others as well.

Christine is being featured in today's Daring Doer on Tory Johnson's Spark & Hustle website. She answers questions about being an entrepreneur, her vision for five and what she has learned. Her parting thought should be lived out by all of us whether we are entrepreneurs or not:

'Dessert" is the word ‘stressed’ with the letters scrambled. Take everything in stride, make sure to breath easy and take the time to have the dessert.

Be sure to read the article in full at Spark & Hustle.

five ACCESSORIES Stretch Donation

2010-11-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

We want Jim back!

Jim’s (aka "Stretch) health struggles began in June when he was diagnosed with a sudden and severe case of myocarditis that has left him in need of a heart transplant. Jim became the first person in the United States to undergo an experimental procedure where two small pumps were implanted in his heart. This has allowed him to go home and be with his family while he gets strong enough for his transplant. Leave it to Jim to make history! Read all about it at http://www.nmh.org/nm/bivad+release.

Jim’s willingness to undergo this procedure and document his experience will likely help countless future heart transplant patients improve their quality of life while awaiting transplant. This is no surprise for those of us who know Jim. From coaching kid’s soccer to working with disabled sailors, Jim is always helping others.

The immediate and long-term costs of a heart transplant are staggering. The first year costs average approximately $800,000.00. Thereafter, the cost of anti-rejection medicines and continuing medical care will cost tens of thousands of dollars annually.

On November 5, 2010, a fundraising event will be held for Jim and his family at the Belmont Station of the Chicago Yacht Club.

Please set the date aside and seriously consider this opportunity to help Jim, his wife and three young daughters. You can help give this family security and peace of mind during these trying times. Thank you for helping!

five ACCESSORIES is privileged to help with this charity event in a small way by donating the following:

1 Large Messenger Bag in Black $75
1 Shoulder Bag in Blue $45
2 Recycled Picture Frames $15 each= $30

We send well wishes to Jim and his family.

Eco- Friendly Handbags Support Cambodia Charity

2010-11-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

As you know, Giving Back is part of our mission statement. A portion of sales goes to support five different countries. Today we featuring Cambodia and sharing the story of how we have chosen to give back to this country and why.

A portion of our sales from our Cambodia collection goes to support a Cambodian charity that supports women and children who are victims of human trafficking and sex slavery. Most of you are probably aware that human trafficking is a global problem that is embedded in a web of poverty, political transition, inadequate female education and economic opportunity and the low value placed on women and children. The International Organization for Migration estimates as many as 4 million people are trafficked each year, a quarter of which are children. Trafficking is a $10 billion dollar a year business. In Asia, women and children are trafficked into prostitution and forced labor within their own countries as well as overseas.

Our eco fashion bags and accessories are handmade by Smateria in Phnom Phem, Cambodia. All of Smateria's products are handmade by Cambodian craftsman and women employed in line with fair trade principles. The company currently employs 50 permanent staff and 15 outsourced families.

Buy locally and support globally by purchasing one of our sustainable bags and fair trade totes using recycled mosquito netting from Cambodia partners Smateria.

Fair Trade Product of the Month

2010-10-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

This past spring we introduced a new eco-friendly collection of handbags and accessories from Cambodia. Each of these products is fashioned from recycled mosquito netting, making each piece a uniquely green fashion item.

The product that has been the best seller, hands down, is this Shoulder Bag. Little did we realize when we introduced it how popular or how useful it would be for Apple's hot new item - the iPad.

Our new shoulder bag comes in six new trendy colors. It not only has a large inside storage pouch, but also a zippered pocket as well as two open, but divided pockets located on the inside front section of the bag. This provides a way to keep extra items organized and easier to find. In addition to these divided pockets, it has two roomy inside pockets that can carry your iPhone, iPod and pocket size earphones. The perfect solution for the techno-savy guy or gal and our fair trade product of the month.

Sue Duncan Children's Center Charity Event

2010-10-13T05:06:00.000-07:00

This past month we were able to be a part of the Sue Duncan Children's Center Charity Event - their Fall Fete.. We donated two of our recycled picture frames to their cause. We also donate to the Chicago yacht club foundation.

About the Sue Duncan Children's Center:

Started in 1961 when after-school programs were only beginning, Sue Duncan opened her first children's center to provide free education and recreation for inner-city children. She desired to offer a haven for children where they would be supported, enriched, cherished and nurtured: a place where they could learn.

Now, in 2010, the Sue Duncan Children's Center (SDCC) is as vibrant as ever. SDCC continues to be a safe haven for children, where staff and volunteer tutors work closely to strengthen core academic skills, while also developing self-esteem, respect for others and a renewed sense of hope. SDCC has provided top-level academic tutoring and social adjustment to literally thousands of children over the past 49 years.

Source: Sue Duncan Children's Center

Thank You Sue from Sue Duncan Children's Center on Vimeo.

Top Five Accessories for Your iPad

2010-10-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

With Apple selling nearly 2 million iPads each month to meet their production demand there are accessories that are becoming just as popular as the iPad.

Consider these top five accessories for your iPad:

1. Keyboard Dock - Cost: $69

2. ipad Screen Protector - The Nu Shield which is simply a protective film that sets over your iPad screen will help prevent it from scratching. Very easy to use and will be custom cut for your iPad so be sure to measure it correctly!

3. iPad Shoulder Bag - This ultra hip carrying case fits over your shoulder and protects the iPad while commuting to class or work. Adjustable shoulder straps, inside three pockets including a zippered pocket, outside two pockets make it ideal for a handbag and iPad carrying case. Function meets style and protection in the unisex iPad shoulder bag. Cost: $45

4. Pogo Sketch - This nifty little gadget turns your iPad into a notebook enabling you to write on your iPad as you would a regular piece of paper. Cost: $14.95

5. Book Arc - This product is a stand to allow your iPad to become virtually hands free enabling easy viewing. Cost: $39.95

Everything from cool iPad shoulder bags to slick screen protectors, these top five accessories have your iPad is covered.

Top Five Accessories for Fair Trade Month

2010-10-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

We love these top five accessories from our online boutique five ACCESSORIES.com for Fair Trade Month. Proceeds from each sale go to charity. All items are made with fair trade standards.

1. five ACCESSORIES Wood Bangles- These ultra chic bracelets are made by Fair Trade standards and a percentage from all sales goes back to charity. Made from solid wood. These bangles are on sale for $10 regular $15

2. five ACCESSORIES Shoulder Bag- This ultra hip carrying case fits over your shoulder and protects the iPad while commuting to class or work. Adjustable shoulder straps, inside three pockets including a zippered pocket, outside two pockets make it ideal for a handbag and iPad carrying case. Function meets style and protection in the unisex iPad shoulder bag. Comes in 6 colors. $45

3. five ACCESSORIES Messenger Bag- Commuter bag, laptop bag, work bag, overnight bag, gym bag, bicycle bag, beach bag, diaper bag, knitting bag, you name it Eco bag. Distinctive outer shell is re purposed mosquito netting. Lining is repurposed industrial waterproof tarp, for a bag that is durable and waterproof. Black piping with mesh straps, to be worn cross body or over one shoulder, the bag closes in front with a big, sturdy buckle. Adjustable strap drop, with bag dimensions of 15.5 x 15.5 x 4.5. Interior pockets keeps everything organized. $75.00

4. five ACCESSORIES Fair Trade Wallet with Key Chain- Made from recycled mosquito netting through Smateria, a fair trade company in Cambodia. Handmade and hand stitched using recycled material. This key chain is designed to hold your iPhone, credit card and one tube of lipstick. Outside pocket designed to hold credit cards. Can also be an iPhone carrying case. Zipper closure. Comes in six colors. $15

5. five ACCESSORIES Wood and Pearl Bracelet- Oval-shaped wood sections are united with small beads in between and finished with a circular shaped pearl overlay. Elastic provides stretch. From our Bali Collection. $10

For more information please visit https://www.fiveaccessories.com/

Happy Fair Trade Month to all my Fair Trade friends!

October is Fair Trade Month

2010-10-05T18:48:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe another year has passed and it is Fair Trade Month again! As wonderful as Fair Trade Month is, it just seems like yesterday that I was writing a blog post about it.

Fair Trade is

...a system of exchange that honors producers, communities, consumers, and the environment. It is a model for the global economy rooted in people-to-people connections, justice, and sustainability.

When you make Fair Trade purchases you are supporting a fair price for products, investing in people and communities here in the USA and abroad. You are also supporting environmental sustainability, economic empowerment of small scale producers, direct trade and fair trade practices such as fair labor conditions.

(source: GreenAmerica.org)
Won't you support Fair Trade Month by purchasing from businesses who are Fair Trade Certified? Just look for these logos below shop:

Eden Place Farmers Market at Fuller Park

2010-09-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

five ACCESSORIES is proud to support the Eden Place Farmers Market at Fuller Park every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Not only does this farmers market provide a great variety of fresh produce, flowers, arts & crafts, music and more, it also provides a great sense of community and support. On August 28th, we had the opportunity to participate in exciting events at the market.

For starters, the Green Fashion Show was a smashing hit. We saw the best of recycled and refurbished fashions! Youth Choirs also showed of their voices in amazing performances and a wonderful green cooking presentation caught the noses of many! However, probably the most exciting of all were the White House officials in attendance! Imagine being a part of the community, meeting neighbors, learning how to be green, and meeting staff from the White House! Just think, they know Obama, how cool is that?

Also, five ACCESSORIES had a table and just maybe someone from the White House left interested in a bamboo bag? Or maybe the messenger bags? We had a great time at this event and look forward to many more in the future.

Gift Insider on WGNTV.COM

2010-09-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Lindsay Roberts of WGN we were almost featured on The Gift Insider but unfortunately the segment got cut short. However, our Off the Street picture frame was still nicely displayed on the table. This picture frame is made of recycled street refuse and handmade by our StreetWise vendors. Also see The Gift Insider blog.

Dressed to Give Feature

2010-07-22T06:06:00.000-07:00

Our founder, Christine Hutchison, was recently interviewed by Stephanie Hackman of Dressed to Give at CaseFoundation.org. Stephanie actively seeks to write about businesses that give back. Here is a quote from her:

Dressed to Give readers know I love highlighting businesses that are giving back in style. I've blogged about shoe companies and boutiques that have made giving back a part of their business model, and I've been thrilled to see an upsurge in fashion-focused entrepreneurial ventures lately that have a strong commitment to philanthropy.

We really appreciate her article and her support. In case you would like to read it, we thought we'd post a link to it:

http://www.casefoundation.org/blog/dressed-give-five-accessories

Upcoming Chicago Shopping Events

2010-07-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

The following list is a our upcoming Chicago shopping events schedule that five ACCESSORIES will be attending in case any of you are in or near the Chicago area:

Chicago Gift & Market

Friday-Saturday-Sunday-Monday-Tuesday

July 23rd-27th

Merchandise Mart, 8th floor

http://www.shopchicagomarket.com/exhibitorlisting/temporaryexhibitors/

Elmhurst Green Festival
Saturday/Sunday
July 31st and August 1st

8:30 to 3:30

http://www.elmhurstgreenfest.org/web/

Halsted Days

Saturday/Sunday

August 7th and 8th

Chicago, IL

Renegade Craft Fair
Friday/Saturday/Sunday September 10th,11th and 12th

9:30am to 7:00 pm

Division St. between Damen and Paulina

http://www.renegadecraft.com/chicago

Lincoln Park Art Faire

Saturday/Sunday Sept. 11th and 12th

9:30am to 6:30 pm

2045 Lincoln Park West

five ACCESSORIES in the News

2010-07-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to TCW Mag (Today's Chicago Woman Magazine) for this recent news feature about five ACCESSORIES and our StreetWise Vendors:

Things You May Have Not Known You Could Recycle

2010-07-13T06:54:00.000-07:00

In 2007 Green America had a great article about 21 things you probably did not realize you could recycle. They featured it again in one of their newsletters. Here is a partial list, to read the full list follow the link at the bottom of this post:

1. Appliances: Goodwill accepts working appliances, www.goodwill.org, or you can contact the Steel Recycling Institute to recycle them. 800/YES-1-CAN, www.recycle-steel.org.

2. Batteries: Rechargeables and single-use: Battery Solutions, 734/467-9110, www.batteryrecycling.com.

3. Cardboard boxes: Contact local nonprofits and women’s shelters to see if they can use them. Or, offer up used cardboard boxes at your local Freecycle.org listserv or on Craigslist.org for others who may need them for moving or storage. If your workplace collects at least 100 boxes or more each month, UsedCardboardBoxes.com accepts them for resale.

4. CDs/DVDs/Game Disks: Send scratched music or computer CDs, DVDs, and PlayStation or Nintendo video game disks to AuralTech for refinishing, and they’ll work like new: 888/454-3223, www.auraltech.com.

5. Clothes: Wearable clothes can go to your local Goodwill outlet or shelter. Donate wearable women’s business clothing to Dress for Success, which gives them to low-income women as they search for jobs, 212/532-1922, www.dressforsuccess.org. Offer unwearable clothes and towels to local animal boarding and shelter facilities, which often use them as pet bedding. Consider holding a clothes swap at your office, school, faith congregation or community center. Swap clothes with friends and colleagues, and save money on a new fall wardrobe and back-to-school clothes.

6. Compact fluorescent bulbs: Take them to your local IKEA store for recycling: www.ikea.com.

7. Compostable bio-plastics: You probably won’t be able to compost these in your home compost bin or pile. Find a municipal composter to take them to at www.findacomposter.com.

8. Computers and electronics: Find the most responsible recyclers, local and national, at www.ban.org/pledge/Locations.html.

9. Exercise videos: Swap them with others at www.videofitness.com.

10. Eyeglasses: Your local Lion’s Club or eye care chain may collect these. Lenses are reground and given to people in need.

(To download Green America's entire recycling issue of the Quarterly, visit their archives page.)

Resource Article:

http://www.greenamericatoday.org/pubs/greenamerican/articles/21Things.cfm

What is Fair Trade?

2010-07-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

We just sent out the newest addition of our newsletter today, but if you missed it or are not signed up, we mentioned the meaning of Fair Trade.

Perhaps you have heard the term. Fair Trade is a business model centered around providing a living wage for producers, safe and empowering working conditions, and environmentally friendly practices. Fair Trade companies help individuals in Third World Countries or Developing Areas to lift themselves out of poverty, invest in their communities, protect the environment, and develop skills necessary to compete in a global environment.

If you would like to learn more about Fair Trade please visit the Fair Trade Federation or Chicago Fair Trade.Or if you would like to stay informed about our upcoming events, current promotions and receive special discount offers, please consider signing up for our newsletter at www.fiveACCESSORIES.com

Nadya - Our Newly Sponsored Child

2010-07-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

Kichen, our Balinese Business Partner, just emailed us a photo and a bit of info about our newly sponsored child, Nadya:

I am sending you the latest picture of Nadya, the girl we are sponsoring. The picture was taken in front of her new school. She got into one of the most favorite senior high schools in Denpasar after going thru severe tests. Today I handed $240 to her to pay for her school fees for the period of July-December 2010. She is so grateful to you for the great help and attention.

This is what five's mission statement is all about!

Our mission is to create income generating programs for individuals, donate a large portion of our sales to worthy charitable causes and foster the use of sustainable material in fashion.

For more information about how we give back to charity, please visit our Giving Back page of our website.

Honduras Coffee Producers Make Eco-Friendly Handbags

2010-06-30T08:01:00.001-07:00

These eco-friendly bags are made by recycling potato chip bags that litter the communities of Honduras. This new project was created and is administered by a women's cooperative of organic, shade-grown coffee producers in the mountains of Comayagua, Honduras. The sale of these bags provides needed income to these women and gives families an alternative to the standard practice of burning trash.

We here at five ACCESSORIES appreciate their work and are honored to be a part of supporting these women and their families in our giving back project.

Screening of Peaceable Kingdom

2010-06-14T18:31:00.002-07:00

Mindful Metropolis is hosting a screening of Peaceable Kingdom. The screening will last from approximately 7pm-8:15pm.

"A riveting story of transformation and healing, PEACEABLE KINGDOM: THE JOURNEY HOME explores the awakening conscience of several people who grew up in traditional farming culture and who have now come to question the basic premises of their inherited way of life."

A Q & A with the film’s producer, James LaVeck, with audience questions will immediately follow the screening (8:15-9pm).

After the Q & A, there will be another hour (9-10pm) of mingling with sponsors, James LaVeck, etc.

Visit www.mindfulmetropolis/peaceablekingdom for more information.

Mindful Metropolis Feature

2010-06-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

We are grateful to have the opportunity to be featured in the May issue of Mindful Metropolis (page 32-33) for our Off the Street Collection - Using Materials Recycled Off the Street, Helping People Off the Street - featuring our Off the Street picture frame. You can open the June issue and go to the archives for the May and other back issues.

Sale at the Andersonville Galleria

2010-06-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

For the month of June we are offering 10% off of our Cambodia Collection at our Andersonville Galleria location in Chicago -Andersonville Galleria 5247 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60640.

This is the perfect opportunity to check out our new eco-friendly handbags and accessories. Our Cambodia Collection is made from repurposed mosquito netting, which we have talked about here in the past.

2010 SolarDay is June 19th!

2010-06-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

Did you know that June 19th is SolarDay? Well, it is! This is another green opportunity to save energy while celebrating Father's Day. We all desire to do our best to conserve energy and build a more sustainable environment.

Here is what SolarDay's website says SolarDay actually is:

SolarDay is a national and international day of recognition of Solar Energy, Clean Technology, Energy Independence, Sustainability and Protection of the Planet.

Green Carpet Event

2010-06-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

Glenn Hughes (pictured above with our Founder, Christine Hutchison) handed out the awards bag at the Mindful Metropolis Green Carpet Event, which kicked off Chicago's Green Festival a couple of weeks ago. This awards bag was given as a part of the Reader's Choice Awards. Glenn was honored as the artist behind the award- our Off the Street Picture frames.

Congratulations, Glenn!

Newest Employee

2010-06-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the new Put Illinois to Work program five ACCESSORIES was recently able to hire Asaca as our newest employee. Our mission is to create income generating programs for individuals, donate a large portion of our sales to worthy charitable causes and foster the use of sustainable material in fashion.

In the photo above Asaca is displaying her first completed Off the Street picture frame. Asaca has 4 children ages 4 to 12 and has adopted her sister's child.

Recycling Fact about our Off the Street Picture Frames

2010-05-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

Did you know...We have recycled over 10,000 CTA transit cards for our recycled Off the Street picture frames? Pretty amazing, isn't it?

According to Earth911.com recycling is:

Recycling is the process of taking a product at the end of its useful life and using all or part of it to make another product. The internationally recognized symbol for recycling includes three arrows moving in a triangle. Each arrow represents a different part of the recycling process, from collection to re-manufacture to resale.

But what does all this have to do with you? Well, recycling is a simple way that you, as a consumer, can help out the environment, create a profitable market for recycled goods and help preserve natural resources from being depleted. So...let's get involved!

WCIU TV Segment

2010-05-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

This is a recent WCIU TV segment about our Off the Street collection that was done over the weekend in celebration of Chicago's Green Festival. Also pictured with the OTS picture frames is one of our eco-friendly handbags - a grey messenger bag made from repurposed mosquito netting, which is a part of our Cambodia line. Enjoy!

Direct link to WCIU TV http://www.wciu.com/youandme.php?section=home&assetID=10002274

OxFam DePaul's First Fair Trade-Apalooza

2010-05-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

We are participating in Oxfam DePaul's first Fair Trade-apalooza next Tuesday, May 25th from 11-4pm!

For more information about OxFam, please visit http://oxfamamerica.org whose mission is:

"Working together to end poverty and injustice."

Northwestern Expo Event

2010-05-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the Northwestern Expo Committee for hosting this event. Here are a few details they provide on their website:

Saturday, May 22

11 a.m. - 7 p.m

Henry Crown Sports Pavilion/Norris Aquatics Center

Vendors from all over Chicagoland
Support local businesses AND get the deals of familiar name brands: food, giveaways, and quality merchandise
Live performances
DJs all day, acappella performances, dance shows, and more
Educational sessions
Nutrition consultations, fit checks, demonstrations.
Fun games and activities
Win prizes. Bring your family!
A Great Experience!
Take advantage of a full day centered around YOU!

For a complete schedule of events, please visit http://www.fitrec.northwestern.edu/expo/schedule.html

StreetWise Fundraiser at Chicago's Green Festival

2010-05-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is just a reminder that we are looking forward to holding a fundraiser for StreetWise, who supplies us with our Off the Street socially conscious gift products. The fundraiser will be held at our booth at Chicago's Green Festival on May 22,23 at Navy Pier. This is our largest event of the season. The fundraiser will include a 5 minute massage in exchange for a $5 donation to StreetWise. Hope to see some of you Chicagoans there!

Details:

May 22-23, 2010
Saturday – 10am – 7pm
Sunday – 11am – 6pm

Navy Pier
600 E Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

In the meantime, check out this Green Festival Introduction:

New Partnership with the Center for Disability and Elder Law

2010-05-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

We are excited and privileged to be partnering with Chicago's CDEL - Center for Disability and Elder Law - to donate $5 from each Off the Street (OTS) picture frame sale through CDEL. Thank you, CDEL, for your partnership and support!

Special Thank You to our Interns

2010-05-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

five ACCESSORIES would not be what it is without the time, help and support of our many interns that help us throughout the year. In the last four years, we have had more than 30 interns pass through our doors. So we would like to mention their hard work and dedication to our mission by honoring them with a little public recognition here on our blog, Facebook and Twitter by sending out a special thank you to our interns at the Illinois Institute of Art and DePaul University - Thank you all very much, we are so pleased to have you as a part of the five ACCESSORIES team!

Picture Note: Rachel (left) is one of our interns. Forgive us for not being able to picture everyone at this time.

Our First Donation

2010-05-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

This is a bit late, but we celebrated our fourth anniversary in March and we thought we'd share a bit of history about our very first donation. As important as our socially conscious gifts like our eco friendly handbags are to our company, the people we are giving back to are that much more important because they are the reason behind all that we do.

The recipients of our first donation back in 2006 were a group of school children in Bali, who are show in the picture above.

The picture below is a family we supported in 2008-2009:

Our company has evolved over the past four years to now give back to charities and individuals at need in India, Cambodia, Honduras and Chicago. We feel privileged to be a part of this ongoing work - the school children, families and charities are the reason why we seek to create and sell eco friendly hand bags and purses so that we can give back a portion of the proceeds to enrich and improve the lives of others.

Thank you for the part you have played in helping us fulfill our mission over the last four years! We appreciate your support!

World Fair Trade Day Update

2010-05-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Chicago's World Fair Trade Day on Friday, May 7th, was a very successful day for us. Despite the rain, we connected with some very conscious consumers looking to help make a difference purchasing socially conscious gifts and accessories. We are grateful for their interest and support.

We also saw Maureen, from Mindful Metropolitis Magazine at World Trade Day. We are excited to be a part of the Green Gala on May 21st.

Thank you to the city of Chicago for working towards becoming more Fair Trade friendly! And an extra special thank you goes out to Nancy Jones and the staff of Chicago Fair Trade for hosting such a great event! Thank you!

10 Reasons To Attend Green Festival Chicago

2010-05-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

10 REASONS TO ATTEND
GREEN FESTIVAL CHICAGO

1. Reduce, reuse and repurpose.
Get the best methods and tools for reducing your home and business waste, conserve resources, source reusable products and repurpose all that stuff you’ve stored away.

2. Learn what new green careers await you.
Keep you and your family secure by finding your career in the green economy.

3. Get fueled with healthy food for body and mind!
Discover the health benefits for you and your family by making the right food choices without sacrificing great taste and your budget.

4. Live lighter with a smaller and greener footprint.
Find sustainable woods, organic cottons and repurposed and recycled materials that are perfect for your home, wardrobe or backyard. Hear from experts on how living lighter helps protect, conserve and preserve our communities and the planet.

5. Find out how to make your home toxin-free!
Your next spring-cleaning can be just the time to create a healthier and safer home. Learn how to eliminate those chemicals that make the air inside your home toxic—from furnishings and carpets to paints and cleaners.

6. Bring the family and inspire the kids.
Delightful surprises await families at the Green Kids' Zone. Around every corner, cool products, green schools and fun workshops will inspire your family.

7. Learn to leverage social media to create social good!
Social networking, blogs, twitter, video… Learn how to leverage the power of social media for social good.

8. Make your home energy efficient.
Put money back in the bank with the latest information on home and commercial energy efficiency and conservation techniques.

9. Beautify yourself without harmful toxins.
Green Festival has vendors that only use certified organic ingredients in their body care products. From moisturizers to shampoos to makeup, you will find personal care products that provide beauty and good health, both inside and out.

10. Become conscientious about your consumption.
Do good by supporting sustainable companies passionate about people- and planet-friendly products and services. Green Festival's marketplace is the place to find responsible businesses and organization located right in your community.

May 22-23, 2010

Saturday – 10am – 7pm
Sunday – 11am – 6pm

Navy Pier
600 E Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

http://www.greenfestivals.org/chicago/

World Fair Trade Day Celebration Reminder

2010-05-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to remind you all that World Fair Trade Day is this coming Friday, May 7th at the Daley Plaza in Chicago see our original post for complete event details. If you live in or near the Chicago area, we'd love to meet up with you there!

We will be participating in this event with 24 other fair trade vendors. We will be selling our recycled picture frames from our Off The Street Chicago Program and our new Messenger Bags from our eco-friendly handbags from our Cambodia Line. They are made out of recycled netting. We will also have available our new selection of jewelry from Bali. All of which will make wonderful socially conscious gifts for Mother's Day, graduations and birthdays.

Here's a little video from 2009 World Fair Trade Day:

And the official World Fair Trade website: http://www.worldfairtradeday10.org/

World Give Day is Today

2010-05-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of World Give Day? Well, it is today. It is not just a day to give back to your favorite cause or charity, but also a day to remind ourselves and each other to practice giving in our every day lives. Imagine the world a better place because we are thinking of each other first and giving of ourselves and resources.

Please visit www.WorldGiveDay.com for more information.

Socially Conscious Mother's Day Gift

2010-04-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

The other day on my way out, a neighbor commented on my red Deppa Bag and said how much she liked it. I proceeded to share a little about it. Since it drew attention once already this week, I thought I would feature it today on the blog.

With Mother's Day just around the corner, our Deppa bags would make wonderful socially conscious gifts for moms. These bags are well made, sturdy and can hold a load of books, even over the handle of a stroller!

This eco-friendly hand bag is red and natural. It is hand printed using natural dyes and lined in solid red, with just the right touch of hand embroidery. It has a snap on either outer side enabling the bag to expand. One inside pocket with a zipper. 18" h x 14" w. $5.00 from the sale of this bag goes to support the fair trade women's co-operative in India, where the good was handmade.

Moms will not only appreciate that her gift is eco-friendly, but that her gift gives back to charity as well.

New Spring Line a Huge Hit at Sales Events

2010-04-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

We are excited that our new spring line in our Cambodia Collection has been a huge success at sales events this past month - They have been our best selling items!

Check out these vibrant new colors:

If you missed our Earth Day pos t announcing the new Cambodia handbags and accessories, please be sure to go back and read it for complete details.

It has been an extremely busy month, but a good busy and lots of fun meeting old and new friends at each of our events.

Confessions of an Over-Worked Mom Giveaway

2010-04-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

Ellen at Confessions of an Over-Worked Mom is hosting a giveaway of our Flower Bracelet.
She has also generously posted about five ACCESSORIES on her other blog called The Socialite's Closet.

Please help us support her by visiting her blogs, leaving a comment or even entering her giveaway.

Thanks!

NAWBO Hosts Annual Celebration of Achievement Luncheon Gala

2010-04-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

I am looking forward to participating in NAWBO's Annual Celebration of Achievement Luncheon Gala on Monday, May 3rd.

The theme of this year's luncheon is "ONE WOMAN: One Dream, One Voice, One Business to Change the World". Business women will be recognized according to their work ethic and passion to keep going in whatever circumstances they find themselves in these three categories: Woman Business Owner of the Year, Member of the Year, and Corporate Women of Achievement Awards.

Congratulations to the 2010 selected winners:

Business Owner of the Year:

Francine Manilow, Manilow Suites, Inc.

Member of the Year:

Susanne Moncrieff, Corporate Motivation, Inc.

Corporate Woman of Achievement:

Gloria Berndl, CDW LLC

Deirdre Drake, Harris N.A.

JoAnne Zielke, American Family Insurance

Michele S. Katz, Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP Welsh & Katz

Jayne McCraren, Viti Financial

Kathy Duckworth, Citibank

Julie E. Vander Weele, Mesirow Financial

Emily Lawrence, National City Bank

Shaun McParland Baldwin, Tressler LLP

About the National Association of Women Business Owners--Chicago Area Chapter:

Founded in 1978, the National Association of Women Business Owners--Chicago Area Chapter is dedicated to propelling women entrepreneurs into economic, social, and political spheres of power. With more than 600 members, the chapter is one of the largest National Association of Women Business Owners groups in the country.

Free ticket to the Chicago Green Festival

2010-04-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is the fourth year that Chicago has hosted a Green Festival. It is the largest green festival of the year for Chicagoans. It is also our biggest retail event. The Chicago Green Festival features gifted speakers, a wonderful green kids program, not to mention a fabulous eco-fashion show, social justice films, green home workshops, and so much more! No matter where you are at in your "green journey" there will be something for everyone on the journey of becoming "green". So come join the fun and excitement on May 22nd and 23rd at Navy Pier:

Saturday – 10am – 7pm
Sunday – 11am – 6pm

Navy Pier
600 E Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

Join the many Chicagoans in learning from and shopping at more than 340 green retailers, organizations, farmers etc. It is amazing that we have so many green businesses in Chicago committed to fair trade and eco-friendly products and services.

As if those weren't reasons enough to attend the Green Festival, the festival committee is offering a FREE ticket! Click on the link for more information.

Plus, we are hosting a fundraiser for Chicago's StreetWise by providing 5 minute table massages for a five dollar charitable donation to StreetWise. We wanted to offer individuals the perfect opportunity to support a local organization that is making a difference in the lives of Chicagoans every day.

World Fair Trade Day Celebration

2010-04-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

"World Fair Trade Day Celebration" on Friday, May 7 at 9:00am - 5:00pm.

Event: World Fair Trade Day Celebration

Start Time: Friday, May 7 at 9:00am

End Time: Friday, May 7 at 5:00pm

Where: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington, Chicago, IL

Those of you in the Chicago area, hope you can make it. Feel free to pass along the information to friends, too!

About World Trade Day

"World Fair Trade Day (WFTDay) is an initiative of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO, www.wfto.com) and is being supported by thousands of citizens, Fair Trade Organizations, social and environmental movements, producers and consumers all around the planet. Local authorities, national governments and multilateral institutions have been supporting Fair Trade for several decades now. "

For more information about World Fair Trade Day, please visit www.worldfairtradeday10.org/

Newly Designed Cambodia Line in Time for Earth Day!

2010-04-22T09:49:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Earth Day, we are excited to have expanded our Cambodia Collection. The collection, made from repurposed mosquito netting by women in Cambodia, consists of a uni-sex messenger bag with inside divider for your computer; a shoulder bag w/ inside pockets; a key ring with cell phone holder (pictured above) and coin purse perfect to attach to the inside of the messenger bag (pictured below). The key ring and coin purse will feature a five petal flower similar to five’s logo flower.

The new line made by a fair trade co-op in Cambodia, is made from recycled plastic mosquito netting, carefully washed and cleaned, originally used to protect livestock, safety netting, and brick layers used it as a sand sieve. The messenger bag has an inside divider that will make it a great eco-friendly computer/work bag for professionals and students or a perfect diaper bag for mothers. Each of these accessories has a zipper closure, whereas the messenger bag has a snap closure. These products are available in new spring colors: grey, copper, blue, yellow, green and black for all styles. Prices will range from $15.00 up to $75. Perfect for an Earth Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or graduation gift!

Green Shopping Expo at Morton Arbetorum

2010-04-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Morton Arboretum Green Shopping Event April 24th and 25th

Saturday, April 24th and Sunday, April 25th, 2010 from 11:00pm-5:00pm

4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle, IL 60532-1293

This sustainable green boutique and garden expo will feature a wide range of distinctive products that will be displayed and sold by vendors who use sustainable practices to make exclusive products. See what is new in the green industry; learn how to use sustainable practices in and outside your home.

We will be representing Chicago area green sustainable businesses and organizations at The Morton Arboretum event this coming weekend, April 24-25th.

Click Shoes Trunk Show

2010-04-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

We want to keep you abreast to our busy spring season, so here is another event that we will be attending:

Click Shoes Trunk Show
April 22, 2010

4 pm to 8 pm
3742 N Southport Ave
Chicago, IL 60613

http://www.clickshoes.net/

On Signing Your Name by R.E. Moody

2010-04-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

r.e.moody

It is the message in the poems,
Not how strong you sign your name.

Green Family Festivals

2010-04-15T20:11:00.000-07:00

Did you know about the Green Family Festivals at The Irish American Heritage Center on April 17-18th? This will be our second year participating. Lots of fun events just in time for the warmer weather!

Crossroads by Roark Moody

2010-04-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Roark moody

Crossroads

Supreme happiness
Warms a cold heart
Despite the Lonely path traveled

Columbia College Eco Fair

2010-04-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

Earth Day The Recycling Program and Eco Fair at Columbia College:

Thursday, April 22, 2010
10am - 3pm

five ACCESSORIES will be there, will you?

For more information about Columbia College, the Recycling Program or Eco Fair visit either of their websites:

www.colum.edu/recycling

www.cccrecycling.blogspot.com/

Fair Trade Bazaar at Roosevelt University

2010-04-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

We will be at the Roosevelt University Fair Trade Bazaar on Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 10 am to 3 pm 430 S Michigan Ave.Chicago, IL 60605. Hope some of you can make it! We actually have three different events on the 22nd, so you definitely have your pick of events that day! We will post event details in the upcoming days and weeks ahead, so stay tuned....

Loyola Eco Fair

2010-04-10T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Loyola Eco Fair is coming up on April 17th and five ACCESSORIES will be there from 1-3pm. This event will be at the Loyal Lakeshore Campus. For complete details visit:

www.luc.edu/earthday/

Conversation with StreetWise Vendor: Glenn Hughes

2010-04-09T13:07:00.000-07:00

It has truly been a rewarding experience to work along side our StreetWise vendors each week. We have many great conversations and recently, during one of our sessions Glenn Hughes said to another StreetWise vendor to encourage her to keep on with her business:

"Failure is not permanent
But only an opportunity
To try it again more intelligently"

Author unknown.

Each of us has much to learn in the course of our lives, but we also have much to give. Words can especially give life to those facing discouragement or are in tough situations. If only we could purpose to give more encouragement each day, the world would truly be a better place. Glenn words of encouragement are another way we can all take to give back to those around us.

Giveaway at Leslie Loves Veggies

2010-04-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

We are privileged to be sponsoring another giveaway. This time Leslie over at Leslie Loves Veggies is hosting a giveaway of our Medium Sand Handbag. This giveaway will run thru April 23, 2010, so if you are interested in a chance to win this eco friendly handbag, please visit www.LeslieLovesVeggies.blogspot.com
Or if you just want to help us promote the charity handbag giveaway, please feel free to pass this information along to others.

Chocolate and Wine Tasting to Benefit Bright Endeavors

2010-04-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

Bright Endeavors is hosting a Chocolate and Wine Tasting Fundraiser event on Thursday, April 29 at the following location:

Mars Gallery, 1139 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 US

Help break the cycle of poverty and be the "green light" for the young, homeless and at-risk women Bright Endeavors serve.

Join Bright Endeavors and their guests for local treats and fair trade delights. Generously sponsored by Divine Chocolate and That's Caring.

Suggested donation: $45 in advance, $50 at the door. Bring a friend for $35.

Visit http://events.linkedin.com/Chocolate-Wine-Tasting-Benefit-Bright/pub/272984

http://www.brightendeavors.org

for complete details.

University of Chicago Green Campus Initiative

2010-04-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Recently, the chair of Green Campus Initiative, a student organization at the University of Chicago dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices on campus contacted us regarding their cause, which you can more about at their blog, http://gci-uchicago.blogspot.com/2010/03/gcis-least-unique-bid-auction-win.html

They held a Least Unique Bid Auction in mid-March where attendees paid a small fee to bid on different items. Since five ACCESSORIES is a fair trade, socially conscious company carrying eco-friendly products, we were a good fit for this event to show our support to the students. We were happy to donate a couple of bracelets to their auction.

The funds they raised will go towards running their annual Battle of the Bulbs competition, a month long inter-dormitory energy reduction competition.

Another Poem from Roark Moody

2010-04-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Here is another poem from Roark Moody(tall gentleman in the hat in back row). He was inspired from one of the combat missions he was on in Vietnam.

Whistling monkeys
Leaping about the twisted trees
Seldom look down.

Another Giveaway at Sweeps4Bloggers.com

2010-04-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

Valerie over at Sweeps4Bloggers.com is hosting another giveaway for us. This time she is giving away two of our medium sand bamboo handbags.

For more information about this eco friendly handbag visit our website or for complete details about Valerie's giveaway visit Sweeps4Bloggers.com

With Earth Day, World Fair Trade Day, Mother' s Day and graduations all coming up, now is the perfect time to purchase products that support local businesses committed to using sustainable materials and implementing fair trade practices.

Northwest Side Green Fest

2010-04-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

We have many Spring events coming up and for those in the Chicago area, we'd love to meet you if you can get to any of the public events.

St. Tarcissus Green Team are the sponsors of the Northwest Side Green Fest:

Saturday, April 10, 2010

9:30am-4:30pm

6040 W. Ardmore,
Chicago, IL 60646

You may also visit the Green Team's web page for complete details:

http://sttars.org/ParishOrganizations/HumanConcerns/GreenTeam.html

StreetWise Vendor: Roark Moody is a Poet

2010-04-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

One of our streetwise vendors Roark Moody is a poet.

This week while working with him he was discussing haiku poetry from japan. I just wanted to share his most recent poem:

Heaven

The tallest mountain
Stands no closer to heaven
Than a grain of sand

MarketPlace Network

2010-03-29T13:03:00.000-07:00

Since we have announced that we are waiting for the arrival of our new spring style Deppa Bag, we thought we would share a little history of the people behind our India Collection. MarketPlace is the network we work with who provides us with handbags from India.

MarketPlace is a cooperative that not only employs artisans, providing them with a much needed income, but they also help the artisans by providing important information about market trends, customer demographics and sales analysis. This offers support and increases the viability of each cooperative.

The cooperative offers the artisans the chance to work from their homes, since most are wives and mothers who have families to care for and support. Most of the women do not have sewing machine skills, thus they utilize their amazing embroidery skills, which is a trademark of the products the MarketPlace produces.

Each artisan is involved in the daily operations as well as the creating of products. This is why the message of MarketPlace is, “Dignity, Not Charity”, which is actually sewn on each piece of clothing that comes from this cooperative. MarketPlace provides a wonderful environment where women can thrive, grow and become successful in all areas of their lives – business, family, community and most of all personal development.

One of the ladies in the photo above says this, "When I lived in the village I didn't know anything, by MarketPlace brought out my hidden talent for doing beautiful embroidery. Only after I came to work here did I experience the freedom to earn and learn: to have access to money and the freedom to create good designs." ~ Seema, Udaan Mandal CooperativeView in India.

Earth Hour - What Will You Be Doing?

2010-03-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Shannon over at A Fresh Squeeze for the reminder about Earth Hour this coming Saturday, March 27th. For an hour from 8:30pm-9:30pm the challenge is to turn out the lights!

You can read Shannon's full article by visiting www.AFreshSqueeze.com

Resources:

http://www.afreshsqueeze.com/chicago/articles/earth-hours-darkness-sheds-light-climate-change

https://www.myearthhour.org/home

India Handbags

2010-03-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

We are expecting a NEW style from our India handbag collection to arrive at the end of April, which is already upon us! It is a The Deppa Bag, but re-styled and in new colors. We can't wait to have official photos to share and to announce that it has officially arrived!

In the meantime, this is our old style of The Deppa Bag below:

The Deppa Bag is easy to hold onto and easy on the eyes, this bag is nicely sized to hold all your necessities. An inside zippered pocket protects your credit cards. The delightfully free-spirited design is done in black and rust hand-block batik with hand embroidery, made in a fair trade co-op in India. 100% cotton. 18" H x 14" W. Price $45.00

Another Giveaway at Barefoot Mommies

2010-03-23T13:23:00.001-07:00

We are sponsoring another giveaway over at Amanda's blog, Bar efoot Mommies. We are giving away two of our bracelets: a pop top bracelet and our triangular solid wood bracelet. See below for photos.

:

This giveaway ends on March 25th, so only two more days to enter!

Crossroads Fund 2010 Annual Benefit

2010-03-16T13:55:00.000-07:00

Crossroads Fund is hosting its Annual Seeds of Change Benefit on April 16, 2010 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Again, five ACCESSORIES was privileged to be asked to donate an item for the Seeds of Change silent auction. Item to be determined.

About Crossroads

"Crossroads Fund supports community organizations working on issues of social and economic justice in the Chicago area. A public foundation, Crossroads Fund pools the resources of individuals, foundations and businesses, building a broad base of support for grassroots organizations for social change.

Crossroads Fund belongs to a network of regionally-based social change foundations called the Funding Exchange (FEX). The Funding Exchange includes 16 funds serving 26 states and most of the country’s large metropolitan areas. For more information, see www.fex.org."

For more information visit www.CrossRoadsFund.org

New Retail Location - Proud Fox Gallery

2010-03-12T13:42:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce that our Bali Bamboo Collection is now available at the Proud Fox Gallery located at 213 W State Street Geneva, IL 60134 Ph: 630-262-8797.

Chicago One Step Closer to Becoming a "Fair Trade City"

2010-03-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

It is exciting when whole cities take on the challenge to become known as a fair trade city. Chicago is one of those cities who has recently been working towards their fair trade goals. Last month, Chicago's city council voted to pass the Fair Trade resolution! That is an incredible step forward and one step closer to making Chicago a "Fair Trade City".

Here are just a few things that were on the agenda, as stated on ChicagoFairTrade.org :

City Council Resolution
Fair Trade available in local shops
Fair Trade at work places, schools, faith communities and community organizations
Media attention
Formation of local fair trade steering group

To read more, please visit http://www.chicagofairtrade.org/

Trunk Show 3/6 in Geneva, IL

2010-03-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

This coming Saturday, March 6th we are hosting a Trunk Show at Proud Fox Gallery located at 213 W State Street Geneva, IL 60134. Phone: 630-262-8797. The event will be from 11am to 3pm. We will be featuring our 'bling' jeweled bamboo collection as shown in picture above and below. These handbags were handcrafted in Bali for five ACCESSORIES by local artisans with the purpose of supporting participatory workplaces, providing fair wages and ensuring environmental sustainability:

Kids with a Heart - Fifth Grader Helps Uganda

2010-02-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

It is always heartwarming to read about stories of children coming up with creative ideas to help raise money for a good cause. Such is the case with a Chicago area fifth grader who is helping Uganda.

Photo from Chicago Tribune Local by BethPreis

"It really bothers Wescott School fifth grader Liat Wasserman that American children have so many electronic devices, when most Ugandan children don't even have enough to eat. So she decided to do something about it. She began decorating canvas bags with messages such as, 'Together We Can Make Things Happen' and 'Stop the Hunger' and has been selling them to friends, family and teachers that she knows. She plans to send the profits to a Ugandan organization that supports children."

Read the full story at Chicago Triblocal for Northbrook...

It is important to teach our children the values of being compassionate and wisely supporting individuals in need. Usually this is taught by example, but sometimes children can surprise us with their own tenderness towards those who have less than the average American kid.

Hats off to this young ladey, great work, Liat!

five ACCESSORIES Giveaway Over at Sweeps4Bloggers.com

2010-02-17T11:04:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Valerie, over at Sweeps4Bloggers.com, we currently have a giveaway of our oversized wood cuff and our dark wood triangle bracelet. The giveaway is running thru 3/4, so if you'd like to enter head on over to Sweeps4Bloggers.com at the following link:

http://sweeps4bloggers.com/?p=1837

Off the Street Picture Frame Being Sold in Beck's Bookstore

2010-02-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

Our Off the Street picture frames are now available at Beck's Bookstore at 50 E Chicago.

These frames are made from Chicago recycled material such as transit cards and ticket stubs made by local folks who have been formerly homeless.

Please consider our Recycled Picture Frame for your upcoming events. Through our income generating program we have been able to employ five StreetWise Vendors in 2009.

If you have an interest in this product for fundraising events, weddings or coporate gives, let us know if you would like to customize the triangle piece. We did this for a large corporate order at Christmas time.

All frames have the picture, signature and location where the StreetWise vendor (aka. artist) sells their newspaper.

Donating to local Elementry Schools

2010-02-16T07:28:00.000-08:00

Helping schoolchildren has always been at the heart of five ACCESSORIES. Recently, we donated a gift certificate to support an elementry school in the Lakeview, Chicago area. Blaine Elementry raised over $250,000 and we were happy to help.

Supporting Climate Cycle 100

2010-02-08T11:44:00.000-08:00

five ACCESSORIES was happy to donate items such as our Brown Coconut Clutch to raise money for Chicago's Climate Cycle 100 being held February 5th at the Peggy Notebaert Museum.

Key Climate Cycle Supporters were recognized such as Eileen Sweeney, Executive Director of the Motorola Foundation.

We appreciate donating our charity handbags to such a great cause!!

For more information please visit

http://www.climatecycle100.com/.

Strong Charitable Giving Stats

2010-01-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

Online Charitable Giving Strong this Year

Please note that the article did not indicate how many participated in this survey. However, it is still quite news worthy.

“The North American Technographics® Omnibus Online Survey, Q4 2009 (US), a commissioned omnibus survey conducted by Forrester’s Technographics® on behalf of Convio, reveals that in the US more than 63% of online consumers plan to use the Internet to donate to charities of their choice during the upcoming holiday season, up from 51% in 2008.
Other survey highlights show that:
Charity websites have the biggest influence on the online consumer’s donation decision (44 percent), followed by “word of mouth” (40 percent);
Email and direct mail from the organization have virtually the same amount of influence on the decision to give at 27 percent and 28 percent respectively;
For nearly 25 percent of the respondents what family and friends say on social media and in personal emails influences the charities they support;
More than half of those surveyed 56 percent think nonprofits have made it easier to donate online, while less than half (46 percent) think that charity websites make it easy to find the information they need to make a giving decision;
When it comes to taking action 39 percent of online consumers report making an online donation after visiting a charity site, while more than half shared their email address, registered for an enewsletter or otherwise opened the door to a relationship with the nonprofit, and
In addition to their online preference, today’s online consumer gives through a multitude of channels as 61 percent report mailing a check (most, after checking the website), 38 percent gave at an event, 17 percent used the Internet to sponsor a friend or family member in a run, walk or ride, while 16 percent responded to a phone call in addition to their personal online giving.”
To read the articles in full, please visit:
http://www.convio.com/convio/news/releases/online-holiday-giving-to-exceed-4-billion.html

5 Ways to Give Back this Year

2009-12-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

5 Ways to Give Back this Christmas
In the consumer driven world that we live in, it is quite easy to become wrapped up in the materialism of the holiday season. There are many ways to make a conscious effort to give back to those around us. Here are 5 ways you can choose to give back this Christmas:
1. Volunteer at a food pantry or PADs or at least take your children to your pantry cupboard or the grocery store to donate a box of goodies to the needy this Christmas season.
2. Try to purchase at least one of your Christmas, Hanukkah etc. gifts from five ACCESSORIES. You will not only be helping the global artisans we support, but our vendors right here in Chicago at Streetwise.
3. Donate to one of your favorite charities. If you don’t have one, there is Compassion International and Gospel for Asia who have programs that allow people like us to support a child for as little as $30/month to help him or her be fed get an education, and other necessities they require to live. There are also many organizations that are fighting cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes that you could give to. Then there are gift memberships to places like Green America.
4. Feeding America is an organization whose mission is to provide food for hungry Americans. During this recession, many Americans are hurting like they’ve never experienced before. What better way to give back than to help a “brother and sister” in need.
5. Go Christmas caroling and deliver a plate of cookies to your neighbors! You won’t only be giving of yourself and time, but you’ll have fun too!

Whatever you decide, we urge you to do at least one thing to give back this holiday season.

Children's Memorial Picks Up 'Off The Street' line

2009-11-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

We are excited that the Children’s Memorial Hospital Store in Chicago has picked up a couple of our “Off The Street” products; specifically the picture frames and pop top bracelets. The patients and their families are sure to love them!

Women in Film Donation

2009-11-18T06:51:00.000-08:00

Last week five ACCESSORIES had the privilege of donating three bag packages to the Women in Film Focus Awards for their honorees.

The Women in Film focus Awards “recognize and honor those women who have made significant contributions to the film, television, advertising or new media industries.” The Awards seeks to celebrate women “who have demonstrated a pioneering and enterprising spirit throughout their careers and who have strong ties to the Midwest.”

See their website.

Social Enterpreneurship

2009-11-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Social Enterpreneurship

“Social entrepreneurs have existed throughout history. St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan Order, would qualify as a social entrepreneur -- having built multiple organizations that advanced pattern changes in his ‘field.’ Similarly, Florence Nightingale created the first professional school for nurses and established standards for hygiene and hospital care that have shaped norms worldwide. What is different today is that social entrepreneurship is developing into a mainstream vocation, not only in the United States, Canada, and Europe, but increasingly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. In fact, the rise of social entrepreneurship represents the leading edge of a remarkable development that has occurred across the world over the past three decades: the emergence of millions of new citizen organizations.”
-- David Bornstein as taken from http://www.betterworld.net/quotes/entrepreneur-quotes.htm

In light of this, our founder, Christine Hutchison, has spoken at numerous events around. These have been wonderful priviledges and a great opportunities for her to share her knowledge of social entrepreneurship.

Other Resources:

http://www.pbs.org/opb/thenewheroes/whatis/

Donating to Women in Film, Chicago

2009-11-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

Last week five ACCESSORIES had the privilege of donating three bag packages to the Women in Film Focus Awards for their honorees.

See their website at http://wifchicago.org/site/focus-awards/

Emanuel Congregation's Chanukah Market - Fair Trade and Locally Crafted Goods

2009-11-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

It is our privilege to be a part of Emanuel Congregation’s Chanukah Market on Sunday, November 8^th from 10:15am to 2:00pm. Emanuel Congregation is located at 5959 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago.

The Chanukah Market is promoting fair trade, while at the same time encouraging buyers to purchase locally crafted goods. Items include fair trade coffee, local foods, jewelry, hand-crafted soaps, textiles and judaica. Many wonderful products that will help give back on a local and global level. We look forward to representing one socially conscious business at this Chicago event.

Fundraiser for StreetWise Chicago

2009-10-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

five ACCESSORIES put on a successful fundraiser for StreetWise in Chicago. We launched our new product line called 'Off The Street' featuring products sourced and produced by vendors of StreetWise, a Chicago based social enterprise designed to help elevate formerly been homeless or severly impoverished men and women out of povertly. By employing individuals and enabling to keep them off the street and using littered material off the street of Chicago, we are offering a unique eco-friendly accessory line consisting of bracelets, buttons, belts, pins and picture frames constructed and adorned with the items such as transit cards, bottle caps, ticket stubs and other urban refuse. As with all of fiveACCESSORIES sales, 15% of gross income will be donated back.

Shop The Fair Trader Chicago

2009-10-12T07:46:00.001-07:00

five ACCESSORIES is in a New Retail Store – The Fair Traders in Hyde Park

This week marked another new beginning as we partner with The Fair Traders store in Hyde Park to sell our products at a new retail location. We are excited about the possibilities of offering our products to a new clientele. Thank you, ladies at Fair Traders, for your beautiful support and interest in providing your customers with products from five ACCESSORIES.
You may learn more about The Fair Traders, their business and exact location by visiting their website at http://thefairtraderchicago.com/

October is Fair Trade Month

2009-10-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

Fair Trade Month – 31 Days and 31 Ways to Support Fair Trade

The month of October is Fair Trade Month and TransFair USA has created a website to celebrate. At the website you will find 31 ways to support fair trade, one for each day of the month. Sorry that we are late in announcing this, but it is never too late to start since there are still close to 20 days left in October.
For example for Saturday, October 10 this is what they had on their home page for fair trade ideas:

Ask for it! – If you don’t see a fair trade item in the store…ask!
Fair Trade Certified at a Store near You – if you don’t know if the store is fair certified…ask!

For more details about 31 Days and 31 Ways to make a difference in fair trade, please visit http://www.fairtrademonth.org/ for some amazing thoughts, ideas and sponsors. Ask and support fair trade!

Climate Action Giveaway

2009-10-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

WE ADD UP

Recently, we were given the opportunity to participate and showcase our eco-friendly designer handbags in what is being called The World’s Biggest Green Sweepstakes (And Help Solve the Climate Crisis at the Same Time). Climate week began last week, September 23, and will end with international climate talks in Copenhagen in early December. Here’s the goal:

“The goal of the Climate Action Giveaway is to get 1 million people to learn about the climate crisis and also to participate in short, easy actions each week that collectively will add up to big change. Whether it be e-faxing their Senator or taking part in creative actions about COP15 in Copenhagen, the actions will be directed from non-profit organizations 1Sky and 350.org, who are each working to create a successful outcome during this unprecedented season of climate opportunity.

The Climate Action Giveaway is the world’s biggest green sweepstakes! All participants of this project are entered to win exciting prizes from their favorite brands (like five ACCESSORIES!). Drawing will take place on December 7th, the first day of the international climate talks in Copenhagen.”

five ACCESSORIES has donated the following items: 2 medium Sand Bamboo clutches and 2 Triangle Bracelets. So don’t put off joining the fun, go to www.weaddup.com and enter the chance to win some great prizes! There is no cost or obligation, just enter your name and email and you’ve entered the sweepstakes.

Supporting Bridge to Success

2009-09-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

five ACCESSORIES , a Chicago socially conscious online store, is supporting Bridge to Success on Wednesday, September 30th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at The Metropolitan Club in Chicago, IL.

Bridge to Success, a social enterprise program of Heartland Human Care Services, provides coaching coupled with high-end interview and work place appropriate clothing for low-income, hard-to-employ men, women and youth to build self-confidence through appearance, interview preparation and a sense of "belonging" at the workplace. More info. can be found on their website at The Bridge to Success. The Bridge to Success .

Supporting PAVE in Chicago

2009-09-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

PAVE is a national, nonprofit that uses education and action to shatter the silence of sexual violence. Through social awareness campaigns, educational outreach, and targeted legislative efforts we work to end sexual violence on all fronts.

PAVE is both prevention and response based. They educate on cultural norms that encourage or trivialize violence while also creating grassroots action against injustices to victims and survivors.

five ACCESSORIES is excited to support PAVE by donating a charity handbag as shown above to their annual Fear No Fashion Event on Sunday, September 27, 2009. For more information please visit PAVE Chicago.

Fair Trade Federation

2009-08-17T11:13:00.000-07:00

"The Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is the trade association that strengthens and promotes North American organizations fully committed to fair trade. The Federation is part of the global fair trade movement, building equitable and sustainable trading partnerships and creating opportunities to alleviate poverty."

For more information about The Fair Trade Federation visit their website.

Buy Locally, Support Globally

five ACCESSORIES Joins Leading Reward Shopping Sites

Shoestring Venture Features Social Entrepreneur

Empowering Lives One at a Time

Good Book: Half the Sky

Gift Certificate Donation to a Local Elementary School

A Face Behind Our Fair Trade Practices

Cool Gift Ideas for Valentines 2011 Chicago WGN-TV Midday News

Charity Donation to Climate Cycle Event

Our Rootz.com Deal

StreetWise Vendor: Roark Moody

Gifts that Give Back to Charity

Glitter: Holiday Shopping Events at Chicago Airports

Unique Holiday Gift Sale Benefits Homeless

Unique holiday gift sale on Sunday will benefit homeless

on ChicagoTalks.org

We'd like to thank Chandler and Columbia College for their mention and support. It means a lot to us to be able to spread the word about this event that will benefit the StreetWise vendors behind our Off the Street product line.

Holiday Charitable Giving

Daring Doer Feature - Christine Hutchison

five ACCESSORIES Stretch Donation

Eco- Friendly Handbags Support Cambodia Charity

Fair Trade Product of the Month

Sue Duncan Children's Center Charity Event

Top Five Accessories for Your iPad

Top Five Accessories for Fair Trade Month

October is Fair Trade Month

Eden Place Farmers Market at Fuller Park

Gift Insider on WGNTV.COM

Dressed to Give Feature

Upcoming Chicago Shopping Events

five ACCESSORIES in the News

Things You May Have Not Known You Could Recycle

What is Fair Trade?

Nadya - Our Newly Sponsored Child

Honduras Coffee Producers Make Eco-Friendly Handbags

Screening of Peaceable Kingdom

Visit www.mindfulmetropolis/peaceablekingdom for more information.

Mindful Metropolis Feature

Sale at the Andersonville Galleria

For the month of June we are offering 10% off of our Cambodia Collection at our Andersonville Galleria location in Chicago -Andersonville Galleria 5247 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60640.

This is the perfect opportunity to check out our new eco-friendly handbags and accessories. Our Cambodia Collection is made from repurposed mosquito netting, which we have talked about here in the past.

2010 SolarDay is June 19th!

Green Carpet Event

Newest Employee

Recycling Fact about our Off the Street Picture Frames

Did you know...We have recycled over 10,000 CTA transit cards for our recycled Off the Street picture frames? Pretty amazing, isn't it?

According to Earth911.com recycling is:

WCIU TV Segment

OxFam DePaul's First Fair Trade-Apalooza

We are participating in Oxfam DePaul's first Fair Trade-apalooza next Tuesday, May 25th from 11-4pm!

For more information about OxFam, please visit http://oxfamamerica.org whose mission is:

"Working together to end poverty and injustice."

Northwestern Expo Event

Saturday, May 22 11 a.m. - 7 p.m Henry Crown Sports Pavilion/Norris Aquatics Center

StreetWise Fundraiser at Chicago's Green Festival

New Partnership with the Center for Disability and Elder Law

Special Thank You to our Interns

Our First Donation

World Fair Trade Day Update

10 Reasons To Attend Green Festival Chicago

10 REASONS TO ATTENDGREEN FESTIVAL CHICAGO

World Fair Trade Day Celebration Reminder

World Give Day is Today

Socially Conscious Mother's Day Gift

New Spring Line a Huge Hit at Sales Events

Confessions of an Over-Worked Mom Giveaway

NAWBO Hosts Annual Celebration of Achievement Luncheon Gala

Free ticket to the Chicago Green Festival

World Fair Trade Day Celebration

Newly Designed Cambodia Line in Time for Earth Day!

Green Shopping Expo at Morton Arbetorum

Click Shoes Trunk Show

On Signing Your Name by R.E. Moody

Green Family Festivals

Crossroads by Roark Moody

Columbia College Eco Fair

Fair Trade Bazaar at Roosevelt University

Loyola Eco Fair

The Loyola Eco Fair is coming up on April 17th and five ACCESSORIES will be there from 1-3pm. This event will be at the Loyal Lakeshore Campus. For complete details visit:

www.luc.edu/earthday/

Saturday, May 22

11 a.m. - 7 p.m

Henry Crown Sports Pavilion/Norris Aquatics Center

10 REASONS TO ATTEND
GREEN FESTIVAL CHICAGO