In the heart of the bustling souks of Marrakech, we discovered more than just exquisite leather bags; we found a place of warmth, hospitality, and a timeless artistry that resonates with the spirit of this season. Join us in the next installment of Intertwined's series, "Unwrapping the Stories: 12 Days of Christmas," as we unwrap the tale of Soufiane, our main Moroccan leather artisan, and his amazing hospitality.
Intertwined co-founder Tiffany first stumbled upon Soufiane's workshop several years ago during a family vacation. Mesmerized by the beauty of his leather creations, she knew there was something truly special about the hands that shaped these bags. This past summer, my husband, Chris, and I embarked on our own Moroccan adventure, eager to see the country and meet Soufiane in person.
Locating Soufiane's workshop amid the labyrinthine alleys of Marrakech proved to be somewhat of a challenge. However, when we finally found the workshop, we were met not only with the scent of tanned leather but also with the gracious embrace of traditional Moroccan hospitality. Soufiane, a master of his craft, halted his work to extend a warm welcome, inviting us to share a moment over a cup of freshly brewed mint tea—a gesture that epitomizes the essence of Moroccan connection.
As we sipped the extremely sweet tea (Soufine likes his tea sweet!), Soufiane generously introduced us to his skilled team, each artisan contributing to the creation of our best-selling circle bags and other leather bags (the newest is the leather structured crossbody). It became evident that beyond the stitches and seams, there was a genuine sense of camaraderie, pride, and dedication to their craft.
What resonated most profoundly throughout our Moroccan journey was the ubiquity of mint tea—a symbolic invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and forge connections. Everywhere we went, the sharing of mint tea was the first “event” upon meeting. In a world that often races against time, the Moroccan approach to hospitality was a poignant reminder to embrace the beauty of unhurried conversations and shared experiences.
Our encounter with Soufiane and his team left an indelible mark on our hearts. Beyond the business transaction, it was a celebration of human connection, the exchange of stories, and the mutual appreciation for craftsmanship that knows no borders. As we unwrap the stories in our 12 Days of Christmas series, we invite you to savor the richness of tradition, the warmth of hospitality, and the elegance woven into each of Soufiane’s leather creations—a testament to the magic that happens when art and humanity intertwine (See what I did there?).