About Us
A Brief History
Worldwide Market Square began in 2003 by my parents, Howard and Bobbie Lefenfeld. They had the idea of creating a global marketplace for artisans after meeting a couple from Nepal, who had been trying to sell their handmade products in the United States, and were overwhelmed by the enormity of the American marketplace.
Our friends at the Social Profit Network in Palo Alto, California provided the seed money and so began our journey to the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal and the creation of Crafted in Kathmandu, a project created to help artisans in the Kathmandu Valley have sustainable work. Today, through our Worldwide Market Square store, located in Great Barrington Massachusetts, we not only sell handcrafted products from Nepal, but from twenty- three different countries.
Where I'm Going
In 2009, my parents were looking to retire and I made the decision to take over the business. I plan to continue the work my parents created by supporting Fair Trade artisans in third world countries in addition to broadening our selection with as many other innovative handmade products I can source.
I have always been a lover of functional art. Interacting with creative objects can elevate the mundane tasks we deal with everyday. Nothing tickles my fancy more than how a great piece of jewelry can change a simple outfit into a unique expression of ones self, or how an ordinary dinner can become an extraordinary moment by taking the time to set a beautiful table.
I absolutely love how a handmade item has a personality and a tale to tell. Whether it is a lighthearted fun story, a way out of poverty, or a deep-rooted cultural tradition, it is alive! Lately, I have become very fascinated by the idea that as an object changes hands it takes on a completely different expression. Every individual interprets an object differently, changing the story and creating something new. Worldwide Market Square is about celebrating that expression by supporting artisans worldwide, seeking out high quality, creatively designed, handmade merchandise and providing you with a socially conscious way to shop.
I hope you enjoy our web store! If you are in the Great Barrington area, please stop by our store at 308 Main Street.
Wishing you all the best!
Sammy Lefenfeld
