As I sit down to write today, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and purpose about the path ahead. Building The Belvedere Trading Company (TBTC) has been as much about preparation and learning as it has been about passion. Over the past months, I’ve immersed myself in the world of craftsmanship, sustainability, and design, laying the groundwork for what I envision to be a company that bridges cultures, supports artisans, and delivers exceptional products to buyers in Europe and Australia.
One of the most enriching parts of this journey has been visiting trade and craft fairs across the country. These fairs are more than just marketplaces—they are vibrant hubs of creativity, tradition, and innovation. Each event I attend deepens my understanding of traditional craftsmanship and sustainability initiatives while giving me valuable insights into design trends and market demands. It’s an ever-evolving industry, and staying informed is critical to TBTC’s mission of offering meaningful, timeless products.
These fairs have also provided the opportunity to meet incredible artisans and manufacturers from across India. Their dedication to their craft is awe-inspiring, and the wealth of talent I’ve encountered has enabled me to build an extensive directory of vendors. These are the skilled individuals and organizations I will rely on to source high-quality, bespoke homeware for our European and Australian buyers.
What excites me most is the versatility of these artisans. Not only do they offer extensive catalogues of their own designs, but they can also manufacture custom pieces tailored to buyers’ specifications. Whether it’s handwoven rugs made from jute and natural fibres, cotton and wool throws, or homeware crafted from recycled materials, their craftsmanship speaks volumes. Sustainability is deeply embedded in their work—dyes are either natural, derived from flowers, or Azo-free, ensuring minimal environmental impact. This aligns perfectly with TBTC’s commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices.
But this isn’t just about creating beautiful products. I want TBTC to be a platform for collaboration and innovation. That’s why we’re extending an invitation to independent designers to partner with us. Whether it’s for exclusive holiday collections, luxury interior design projects, or bespoke home edits, I believe that blending fresh creative ideas with traditional craftsmanship can result in truly exceptional pieces. These collaborations also ensure a dynamic, ever-evolving product line that caters to diverse tastes and needs.
My commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry doesn’t stop at local fairs. In January, I’ll be heading to the UK to attend several prestigious trade events:
These events aren’t just about discovering new products or trends. They’re opportunities to meet brands and designers, exchange ideas, and foster long-term partnerships. By interacting with industry leaders and innovators, I hope to promote TBTC’s services and build relationships that will enrich our offerings and expand our global presence.
Every step of this journey feels like a building block toward something greater. The preparation—the research, the meetings, the travel—isn’t just a means to an end. It’s a vital part of the process, ensuring that TBTC is rooted in authenticity, quality, and sustainability from the very beginning.
As I continue to grow this business, I feel immense gratitude for the artisans, designers, and partners who have already joined me on this journey. Their stories, skills, and visions are what will make TBTC more than just a trading company; they’ll make it a bridge between tradition and innovation, between craftsmanship and modern living.
I look forward to seeing where this path takes us next. With each new connection, product, and collaboration, TBTC gets one step closer to becoming a brand that champions meaningful design and thoughtful consumption. The future is full of promise, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of it.