A Peek at Products We Love and the Companies who Make Them
We get to meet so many great companies via Kokova Magazine, so we thought we would do a quick round up of some of our favourites. Luxuries are an indulgent treat for us so when we buy them we like to know our purchase is working towards a good cause, or we are really getting value for money.
When we treat ourselves to some of life's luxuries, it is great to know that as well as getting great products for our self, we are also benefiting others with our purchase. Companies like BOTTLETOP who create the most adorable bags and accessories that we are excited to own. BOTTLETOP grew from a product collaboration with Mulberry supporting artisans in the developing world and charitable foundation funding education projects. The Bottletop Foundation empowers disadvantaged young people to take control of their lives through health education and vocational training projects; in turn supporting their wider communities.
"Designs by Bottletop are works of art, treasured by both the craftsman and customer alike. The creation of Bottletop products not only enhance the techniques of some of the most highly skilled artisans from around the world but our training programs enable others to join them, supporting themselves and their families in the process."
Not a social enterprise but another great home based company producing product we love is Lauren Aston Designs. We just adore these chunky knits and super-sized designs, and can totally relate to the idea that we want to knit, but we want to do it fast! We met Lauren at a Country Living Fair in 2016, and her designs were an instant hit with us. 
The Country Living Fairs are the perfect place for us to find new products and the companies that make them. Among the rows and rows of exhibitors we have always discovered a start-up company, taking the plunge at a large scale London event in the hope of spring-boarding their business to a bigger audience. In April the Spring Fair returns to the Alexandra Palace, bringing textiles, homeware and foodie finds to a waiting audience.
When it comes to clothes we don't just look for the ladies, men's fashion is high on our list, so when we see events like London Edge promoting Menswear at The edge, we want to take a peek. We may have to wait until September but the date is in the diary.
Back in 2013 we discovered The Wonderbag. As keen cooks we were intrigued by The Wonderbag story, taking for granted the fact that we had a slow cooker, or could safelty leave a pot on the hob to simmer the afternoon away. But for some, collecting firewood and burning for long hours in a confined space comes without the luxury of proper ventilation. The Wonderbag takes away the need for fuel over an extended time, and continues to cook where no additional heat source is needed after the initial boost.
"Three billion people cook over an open fire every day, risking health and precious resources. A single Wonderbag, when used for one year can reduce carbon emissions by 1 Ton, reduce deforestation, saving 1.7 trees, conserve 1,000 litres of cooking water, reduce indoor air pollution by 60% and reduce time poverty, giving back 1,465 hours per year.
At the time we bought our Wonderbag the company were giving one away free for every purchase made, to a waiting family in need.