Kim's Story...How I Ended Up in Mexico

In 1998, I became engaged to my now, husband, whom I shall refer to as "McDaddy." I bartered with him: "I move to Mexico, YOU marry me!" By the way, a dog and a cat were also a part of that agreement (more on that later). My husband decided to start his own company and we ate rice and beans for 6 years...eh hem...not quite, but in all seriousness, I am very proud of him and his success. During those years I was just an observer of all things beautiful that I encountered in Mexico: pewter bowls, martini glasses, sculptures, gorgeous Talavera pottery, rugs from Oaxaca, rustica furniture, amazing paintings, and that's just to name a few! I drooled over these things and redecorated my house in my dreams. I was being taunted and tortured, but I knew that I would own these things one day. Eleven years and three little boys later (that's another post!), I had made countless trips around Mexico and especially here in Guadalajara to Tonala and Tlaquepaque where all of these beautiful things originate. Mexico is an artist's playground! There is so much that inspires you here: the colorful streets, varied landscapes, blue skies (most of the year), warm oceans, the kind people, and the emotion that you can not only see, but you can feel. My heart has been exposed to an amazing and talented Mexican culture.



The day has finally arrived! The kids are a little older, life is a little more generous and the idea came to me: Why not start your own export business? Why not share your love of Mexico and its artesania with the world?

My friend Cati was in a rut; an English teacher at the time, she explained how she wanted to do something more exciting with her life. That's all it took. I suggested that we collaborate and Collections of Mexico was born. Now, here we are, doing what we love. Our days are filled with scouting and interviewing Mexican artisans with unique talents, and perusing the tianguis (outdoor markets) to find beautiful and distinct pieces. Our collection, which is solely comprised of authentic, unique artesania can be found on our website http://www.collectionsofmexico.com/.

Our goal is to work exclusively with other small business owners like ourselves. The search has led us to discover beautiful pewter pieces, Talavera pottery, sculptures, amazing tiles, rustica furniture, barware, and other home decor items. It is our passion to support the Mexican artisans and their craft (another post to follow, further explaining this). With so many commercial choices out there, the need for artisans and their skills is depreciating. If you find yourself wanting something that we can provide, please choose Collections of Mexico or another authentic, reputable company representing Mexican artisans.

Saludos,

Kimberly McDaniel