Mar Y Sol Handbags

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Mar y Sol is a socially & environmentally responsible company that markets handmade handbags from Madagascar & Kenya. Their colorful accessories blend the traditional and contemporary design ideas of their international artisan partners who incorporate renewable raw materials to create original clutches, totes and shoulder bags. The sale of Mar Y Sol products enable families to gain economic independence and promote environmental conservation.

Laurel Brandstetter launched Mar y Sol, formerly Mad Imports, in 2003 as an outgrowth of a Madagascar-based development project started by her relative, James Sellers. With a background in community development, urban planning and volunteer public health work she realized an opportunity to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life in Malagasy and Kenyan communities through the sale of handmade accessories. Since 2003, Mar y Sol products have appeared in major fashion publications including O, Domino, Lucky, Glamour, Cottage Living and on TV spots including E! News, the Today Show and CNN Headline News.