Anan al Balushi
Today's world has embraced the concept of living, loving and thinking green which all lead to being mindful of the environment and promoting a safer, sustainable and better planet.
Within this vein, a Market Fair promoting mixed eco-friendly products had been organised by Thy Yard bringing in one location more than 20 vendors who sell not just goods, traditional clothing, accessories and food but also some artisanal gifts that people can give to their mothers in celebration of Mother's Day.
Sarah al Lawati, the owner of @wheat_grass_oman, is one of the participants in this year's pop-up event. Her product concept revolves around urging people to go for healthier snacks and a fitter lifestyle.
Sarah is proud that her confectionaries are made of real-squeezed fruit juices and use alcohol-free fragrances.
Sarah said that these are good alternatives to candies handed out during events such as Qaranqasho, Christmas and Easter.
"We do custom-made giveaways for weddings, birthdays and bridal showers. We also offer perfumes that are made for sensitive skin. This decision is made because a lot of kids suffer from eczema so we made a product that is 100 per cent essential oils and water," Sarah explained.
“I have witnessed how people are becoming more conscious about what they put in their mouths and appreciate the value of organic alternatives. I'd been in the shows of people wanting to find healthy and safe products without hassle that's why I decided to provide the gap in the market," she said.
Mae Louise, the creative brain behind @ikathandmade, meanwhile, introduces 100 per cent handmade macrame pieces.
“I make different items such as earrings, covers, jars, bags and more! The macrame cords are shipped from Poland but the creation takes place in Oman. I need exposure, so people learn how to cherish these exquisite jewel-like portraits patterns of cords,” she said.
Mae Louise said that the great thing about handmade products is that no two items are alike although the style may look similar.
"I like to think that each item you purchase is made only once for you. Handmade is both art and love combined. It's one way of projecting yourself in the eyes of others,” she added.
@omanbasket on the other hand provides certified eco-friendly cosmetics that are wholly organic. They sell head-to-toe skincare products including face and hair that fits all ages. They said that the product can also be bought online and can be delivered for "busy mums."
"Our products are available in some shopping centres and local pharmacies to give people, especially those wanting organic some nice choices. Besides, we localise our products' variety and promote Omani-made organic items. We are trying to add more organic labels to embrace eco-friendly environment products under one umbrella; that is our goal,” the Oman Basket team shared.
For seven years now, Anita, the soul behind @symphony_of_body_mind_and_soul found her way to understand crystals and the power hidden in this material.
“I can use crystal reiki healing and sound therapy; they have different stories and meanings. Also, they help you bond with your inner peace and higher self like labradorite. For instance, Rose quartz includes unconditional love and amethyst has a lot of positive energy. Tigers eye is the stone of confidence, sacral chakra stone helps you build a safe and firm foundation," she shared.
She added, "Where Lepidolite is a go-to stone —if you are going through stress and anxiety, just hold it for five minutes and sense the awe of calmness.” she said. Hold onto a random piece, and if you happen to like how it feels, that means it's good for you!
“You may get your beloved mother a matching stone gift to thank her for all her sacrifices. Finding your crystal is a way of the universe guiding you to your inner harmony,” she urged.
@valpost.om could be found anywhere! They are the hygiene sponsor at the @Thy Yard, following the supreme committee regulations to check temperatures provide sanitisers and mosquito repellents. Also, ‘ValPost Hygiene Station’ is a sanitiser dispenser that allows you to disinfect your hand, phone and safety tips.
"We can arrange sanitisers for weddings, food festivals, birthdays, or other events. As Covid has been a part of our lives, it became necessary for sanitisers to exist! Find out more @valpost.om.
Undoubtedly, the demand for eco-friendly products is becoming popular among people, especially young adults. The new generation is helping to spread awareness and influence our society to live healthier and go green!
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