We had the good fortune of connecting with Bibi Kemper and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bibi, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?

Through my business, Small World Goods, I prioritize working with women artisans in Asia & Africa, who have the least opportunities for professional growth in their communities. I work only in parts of the world I’ve either lived in, or been traveling to for at least 10 years, so that I can be as respectful and authentic as possible, and especially seek out makers who don’t have an online presence, due to limited internet access. These are the makers who struggle most to build their business and expand their network.

In many of these countries, women have limited means to participate in society. Through Small World Goods, we’re not only supporting the artisans we work with, but normalizing the image of female independence for other women in their communities. It’s through this approach to business as a social enterprise that we can make a difference in this small world.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Small World Goods offers a thoughtfully curated, small batch collection of home goods, apparel, accessories, and gifts from near and far. I seek out only the most beautiful and best made collections through decades of living in, and extensive expeditions through the regions. Working directly with artisans and small businesses, I focus on handmade items from underrepresented communities, with a particular emphasis on supporting women. This means when you shop Small World Goods, you’re contributing to the normalization of women artists and entrepreneurs around the world, for generations to come. Our goods arrive to you carefully wrapped, many with handmade notes about their origins, including you and your loved ones on the adventure. I’m most proud of the support we give to the artists who need it most, and most excited about finding new artists to work with! This life has not been easy, especially with the challenges of running a small business through a pandemic and the current economic situation. But creative thinking and flexibility has allowed me to get my business where it is. I’m constantly evaluating and changing as the world and my business moves forward.
I want the world to know that Small World Goods is about beautiful things, but also about living a life of kindness. We’re all here on this world together, so the more we can help each other, the better off we’ll all be.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would get migas tacos for breakfast at Vera Cruz All Natural food truck, then spend the day exploring the Green Belt. Dinner at Suerte is a must, and Canje for their tres leches cake as dessert. I’d end the day with the night swim at Barton Springs, and if they’re up for some late night shenanigans, I’d take them to Justine’s Brasserie. The perfect Austin day!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

My parents, Mari and Will Kemper, have been entrepreneurs all my life, and own Chuckanut Brewery. I couldn’t have started on this path without them. I’ve seen the ups and downs, and insane amount of hard work that goes into running your own small business. It honestly kept me away from starting a business for a very long time. But also showed me that, with an incredible amount of hard work, it is possible. Since starting my own business, they have given me nothing but love, encouragement, mentorship, and support.

Website: smallworldgoods.com

Instagram: @smallworldgoods

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.