1 of 5
2 of 5
3 of 5
4 of 5
5 of 5
To the casual consumer, recently merged companies Nisolo and Red Earth couldn't be more differentthe former, a brand of sleek leather goods (think shoes and totes) with its soles planted firmly in Peuvian craftsmanship, and the latter, a line of upcycled jewelry, handmade by African artisans. But with their shared interests in international ethics and social impact, the two accessories houses are cut from the same philosophical cloth.
Nisolo founder Patrick Woodyard says there are three primary reasons why Red Earth was a great fit to become part of Nisolo.
'First off, the people: [Red Earth founder] Travis Gravette is an incredibly bright entrepreneur,” Woodyard says. 'Secondly, the product, the quality of which is a direct result of the art form behind the production, passion, and diligence of Red Earth's artisans. Lastly, the impact. Nisolo means ‘not alone.' We hope to bridge the gap between producers in the fashion industry and the consumers.”
In joining forces with Red Earth, Woodyard continues, Nisolo is able to extend its impact to a new continent, offering job creation and access to education in a community with incredible need. Gravette echoes Woodyard's passion.
'Patrick and I shared the same vision for our companies and have the same approach to production,” he says. 'Nisolo is a few years ahead in organizational growth, and as I was planning for the future of Red Earth, I thought, Why not explore what it could look like for us to work together? That led to Patrick and [me] opening up a dialogue at the end of 2014 and coming to an agreement earlier this year.”
That agreement became official in June. With a six-month rollout strategy, Nisolo plans to incorporate new Red Earth products in the coming monthsand they'll do so in their new Germantown location. One thing that won't change? A commitment to quality products and global empowerment.
'Consumers can expect the same great quality products that both brands have committed to producing, but now they'll be able to get it all under one label,” says Woodyard. 'We are so excited to be able to have an impact on two different continents moving forward and will continue to be deeply committed to the welfare and growth of our producers.”
1803 9th Ave., 615-953-1087; nisolo.com