One of my goals for this year is to research and implement ways in which I can make Concord Pillows, LLC a more socially responsible company.  Currently I am researching textile manufacturers who use responsible materials and suppliers who offer sustainable packaging.  With this in mind, I was intrigued  to read about the newly introduced Everybody, a clothing and lifestyle line based in California that features truly sustainably sourced, responsible materials.  While their 100 percent recycled cotton T-shirts may not have much to do with luxury pillows, I feel comfortable dedicating time to this enterprise because I respect and support  their commitment to "ethical" and "earth-friendly" production processes.  I especially like the concept of their "trash" T-shirt, which uses scraps from the consumer garment-making industry.  Thank you to the New York Times for spotlighting Everybody in their ThursdayStyles section on January 19, 2017.

​Image courtesy of Everybody.  

​It is hard to believe that in a few months we will be celebrating the one-year anniversary of Concord Pillows, LLC, as it was in March of 2016 that the company was founded.  Since that time I have learned a lot, the greatest lessons being that there will always be more to learn, and that new paths for growth will continue to present themselves.  The challenges will be finding the discipline to set priorities, to entertain positive thoughts and to stay true to myself and to my vision. With regard to vision, my hopes and wishes for 2017 are to adhere to the principle of incorporating only fabrics of the highest quality in my designs, with the added scope of seeking out new textile manufacturers who are handcrafting fabrics here in the United States, using ecologically sound practices whenever possible.  I will also seek ways to work with recycled products and to promote recycling in general.  Even at a young age I was acutely aware of and concerned by the amount of waste that we humans generate, and so I am eager to embrace recycling through Concord Pillows, particularly with regard to packaging.
Another goal for 2017 is to carefully introduce a few new items to the Concord Pillow product line, such as table linens and some seasonal items to sell during the holiday season.   This year we celebrated our second Christmas and New Year here in our new home in Concord.  I was especially inspired by the beauty of the landscapes and the spirit of the town this season, and hope to reflect some of my appreciation of this spirit through a few special products next winter.  I have posted some pictures that my husband and I took while walking during the first snowfall here in Concord, which I hope will give you an idea of what we treasure about this place and why we are grateful to be living here.
To those of you who have supported me in my endeavor to nourish and grow Concord Pillows this year, I offer a heartfelt thank you.  I will continue to rely on you for your wisdom, insight and most importantly, your friendship.  I am especially grateful to Fritz for his invaluable business sense, patience, optimism and love.
Wishing you a peaceful and prosperous New Year,
Cathy