utani-uk
First Floor Studio Unit 6, Richmond Gates 160,
Charminster Road, Bournemouth, BH8 8UX, UK
Tel: 01202 528 262 / 07919 051 956
Contact: Joy Thomsen
E-mail: Joy@utani-uk.com
Categories: accessories , bridalwear , decorations , flowers , green-weddings and groomswear
What we do
utani-uk is a Dorset-based eco-fashion label offering ethical creations beautifully designed and handcrafted by Joy Thomsen.
Joy offers a bespoke bridalwear and evening wear range from 100% organic and Fairtrade cotton for the socially and eco-conscious bride.
utani-uk also offers an extensive made to order clothing range suitable for the whole wedding party.
A unique innovation from utani-uk is the new bespoke service for organic and Fairtrade fabric flowers, perfect for everything from buttonholes to the bridal bouquet. Not only do you cut back on chemical laden blooms and flower miles, you also get a bouquet for life!
Joy has recently extended her range to include bedding, homeware, and cards, made from 100% organic and Fairtrade cotton. Using appliqué to bring the designs to life, Joy is finding a warm appreciation from clients of the level of craftsmanship that goes into her creations.
In the 18 months since it opened, utani-uk has been featured and recommended extensively in ethical and fair trade media.
Ethical Action
utani-uk was launched in April 2006 and has evolved out of Joy’s sincere belief that action speaks louder than words.
Joy, the experienced designer and creator of utani-uk is a passionate supporter of trade justice and environmental reform and was inspired to set up utani-uk following a visit to East Africa to work on development projects in local villages.
The ethos of ‘utani-uk’ is to promote awareness of fair trade and environmental issues.
By purchasing a designer utani-uk item you will become an ethical consumer, helping to empower cotton producers, weavers and dyers in developing countries who are receiving a fair wage with improved working conditions, enabling them to feed their families and afford healthcare and education for their children.
All the cotton we use is 100% organic and is created in the village of K.V.Kuppam in Tamil Nadu, Southern India and has been awarded the prestigious Fairtrade mark.
Read more about utani-uk in our Ethical Weddings supplier case studies.
Awards and Recommendations
- utani-uk is a member of the British Association for Fair Trade Shops (BAFTS)
A few ways we're trying to make a difference
Using organic products
All fabrics used are 100% organic.
Supporting fair trade
All fabrics used are 100% Fairtrade certified cotton.
Supporting / working with a charity
I support a local charity, Contessa which supports HIV and Aids victims in Zambia.