Maries - International Connection Through Culture - Maries

International Connection Through Culture

A Special Visit from Ireland to Maries

Recently, Maries had the honor of welcoming two special guests from Ireland, thanks to the connection made by Mr. Trương Thanh Hùng and Ms. Liên Trần. This was a precious opportunity for Maries to share the story of preserving and developing traditional handicrafts made from Lepironia grass – a material deeply rooted in Vietnamese rural heritage.

An Inspiring Conversation

From the moment they stepped into Maries, the two guests expressed curiosity and excitement about the space, which was filled with cultural colors. They came with a desire to hear Maries’ story – the journey from its challenging early days to the point where it confidently brings traditional handmade products to both domestic and international markets.

Fortunately, there were no language barriers, allowing for a natural and profound conversation. They listened attentively, their eyes filled with excitement as they explored how Maries started from scratch, leveraged social media and e-commerce to reach customers, and gradually built its brand while expanding into the offline market within Hue’s tourist-friendly walking street.

When Culture Becomes the Core Value

What impressed the guests most was how Maries transformed a traditional handicraft into something unique, beautiful, and valuable while preserving its cultural essence. They asked many questions about the creative process, how Maries connects with local artisans, and the ways in which the brand fosters a sustainable ecosystem where everyone benefits fairly.

We shared with them that, for Maries, each product is not merely a piece of handicraft but a vessel of invaluable cultural stories. Preserving these values not only helps maintain national identity but also contributes to the sustainable development of rural economies.

Opportunities for International Collaboration

The meeting didn’t stop at just sharing stories. The two guests extended an invitation for Maries to participate in online programs for international students, where our business model—rooted in cultural preservation—could be shared more widely. If fate allows, there may even be an opportunity to visit Ireland and present this model on a larger stage.

Belief in a Sustainable Journey

After four years of accompanying Maries, I understand that building a business based on cultural values is never easy. It requires patience, dedication, and an unwavering belief that “As long as culture thrives, the nation endures.” When a brand is built on the foundation of sustainability, it gains lasting vitality and leaves a profound mark on people’s hearts.

The visit from our Irish guests was not just an ordinary meeting but a tremendous encouragement for Maries as we move forward. And with everything we have experienced, I truly believe that each product we create carries not only economic value but also plays a crucial role in shaping the development of Vietnam’s rural economy.