‘Proud, bold and creative’ are just three words that can be used to describe Caribbean artisans and the products they are able to produce.  Drawing on a range of influences Caribbean culture is a convergence of African, European and Amerindian heritage. This collective union has produced a unique environment from which artisans are able to create something rare and beautiful which appeals not only to their captive audience of the Caribbean public and buyers but also international buyers looking for something different and exceptional.
Caribbean Export has adjusted its 14 year old Caribbean Gift and Craft show to match the ever-changing need to supply products that encapsulate all of what the Caribbean is about. One of the most notable comments from the historical Gift Shows is that there have been too many imports.  Whether from China or India, these imports may be inexpensive but the product is mass produced, uninteresting and not unique to the Caribbean. Tourists are simply too well travelled to be interested in making that purchase no matter how inexpensive it is and most are looking for a breath of fresh that they can take back home and show-off to family and friends.

Caribbean Export has taken this feedback into consideration and has spent the past year vetting quality Caribbean artisans making it easy for Hotel Gift Shops and general home stores in the region to access this quality type of product in one convenient location – the re branded Design Caribbean show.

All of the artisans at the event have been carefully selected by a panel of judges to showcase their work at this leading Caribbean trade show.  Everyone attending will find high quality, high end products that are not available in every street stall, shop window or market.

Unlike their rivals from mass producing countries such as China these products are special, dynamic and rare and reflect everything the region represents – beauty and talent. All of the goods on offer will be luxury, high caliber, design conscious pieces that are lovingly crafted to appeal to the public as well as boutique buyers and anyone looking for a stellar product that won’t be left on the shelf.

The new show DESIGN CARIBBEAN, takes place September 1-4, 2011, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic . September 1^st, is for Trade only. It will take place at the Occidental El Embajador one of the region’s most exclusive venues in the Dominican Republic’s capital Santo Domingo.

Design Caribbean is more than a trade show as buyers from across the world and members of the public will be treated to a feast of talent that cannot be readily found under one roof. Sponsored by the European Union, FedEx, Abordage and American Airlines among others, those attending the event will also be treated to a spa and wellness section, a film screening, a fashion event and a rum experience as well as musical performances from the region’s top international performers such as Alison Hinds who is labeled regionally the Soca Queen and has had worldwide success with her hit ‘Roll’.

Come to Santo Domingo from September 1^st – 4^th 2011 not just to ‘Celebrate the beautiful’ but to ‘Celebrate the Caribbean’.