Memos from the Movement: An Intimate and Integrated World
Last week, I flew into Austin, Texas, for my very first trunk show with Ibu—not quite sure what to expect. What unfolded left me speechless, in the best way. It took many hands to make a successful event possible, and I want to send a big thanks to Kelley McClure, Syd Sharples, Chris Mattsson, and all the other hosts who helped bring together a wonderful crowd. The events came together with the kind of quiet grace that only happens when women work beautifully behind the scenes.
We gathered at Joy Shoppe, a gorgeously-curated space owned by Chris Mattsson on Kerbey Lane. Chris, with her keen eye and thoughtful design, offered the perfect backdrop for a weekend that was polished, purposeful, and full of connection.
What truly stayed with me, though, was how people responded.
Guests didn’t just browse, they engaged, asking thoughtful questions. They wanted to know the stories behind the pieces like the Seven Sisters shawls from Kyrgyzstan, made using centuries-old felting techniques passed down through generations. They inquired about the expressive Zuri dresses and the bold beadwork created by Maasai women in Kenya. They examined stunning silk bead strands from House of Wandering Silk, crafted from vintage saris and prayer beads, each one stitched with intention and history. I could see the admiration on their faces—the moment beauty becomes even more powerful because it carries meaning.
During the event, our founder, Susan, shared something that has lingered with me. Around the world, she said, women carry so much: families, communities, entire economies; yet they are often the last to access resources. And still, when you support just one woman, she often supports eight to ten others. That ripple effect is real. And in a room full of women—many of them mothers—it struck a chord. Because we don’t just care for our own. We show up for siblings, neighbors, coworkers, and friends. That’s what women do.
After the event, Kelley shared that guests were especially impressed by Ibu’s model and the quality of the pieces themselves. That feedback speaks volumes about the artisan partners we’re so fortunate to work with. Their talent, their dedication, and the timeless beauty they create. It reminded me why I do this work: to help more people discover these extraordinary women and the artistry they carry in their hands and hearts.
That’s what I’ll carry with me from Austin. Not just the color and conversation, but that shared understanding: when women gather with intention, something meaningful happens. Whether you were with us in person or cheering us on from afar, thank you for being part of it!
With Gratitude,
Grace Hamilton
Director of Development
