Waterlily Travel Journal: December 2008

Hello! I'm Renee Garland. I've been traveling to Asia for the last 13 years in order to escape snowy Maine winters, hoping to live sunny adventures. My company began 11 years ago with $250 worth of chopsticks. I started selling them at craft fairs and festivals all over coastal Maine. Unfortunately, many people didn't know much about chopsticks! (or Asia for that matter.) Nonetheless, I trudged through the festival scene for several years expanding my inventory to clothing, accessories, gifts, and art. The mission has always been the same; to work with individuals, women's coops, and small home-based businesses to help support and encourage small enterprises. I opened my first store in Portland, in 2006 called "Waterlily." It's filled with Waterlily brand handmade gifts produced both from my travels abroad, and by local artists. I still go on buying adventures, 'cause that's what it's all about. . .

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Merry Madness!

Downtown Portland and the Old Port welcome the holiday season with an annual event known to locals as "Merry Madness."
The shops participating vow to stay open until 10pm, and serve wine. It was started in hopes to stimulate holiday shopping locally, and support local business owners. Sounds like a great excuse to have a party in the shop! This year Waterlily decided to do it up right with tinsel, xmas trees, and wine! (Looks like Santa even decided to make an appearance.) We welcomed all of our wonderful friends and community, and had a grand celebration! I love holiday parties!