I had the very good luck to meet Annie Waterman in my early twenties. We both found ourselves in Prague, enrolled in a training program to teach English as a second language. I loved her immediately with her easy laugh and her soft voice. She is kindness personified! With one other girl, we found an apartment above Wenceslas Square, posters of Egon Schiele above our beds. Annie discovered art and photography while I sought out old bookstores. Together we navigated Czech cuisine (not great) and beer gardens and post-Soviet punk music.
Annie has been an immense source of inspiration for me. As the founder of AOW Handmade, she has followed her love of art and beauty all over the world. Sourcing unique, ethical products directly from the artisan, AOW connects the artist and the vendor. Be sure to check out @aowhandmade (Annie is an amazing photographer), sure to ignite your wanderlust.
Annie now lives in Paris – another inspiration – and has rounded up some of her favorite places and finds below.
Meet Annie!
Can you tell us a bit about AOW Handmade?
I've spent my entire 15-year career working with artisans. About six years ago, I started AOW because I noticed a growing interest in ethical sourcing but few places for buyers and shop owners to connect with artisan producers. Aside from trade shows, there was limited access to artisanal vendors and nowhere at the time for buyers to find such producers. I was surprised to see this gap in the market. AOW was created to bring exposure to artisanal goods and increase market opportunities by connecting artisans with buyers who appreciate unique, handmade goods. I work one-on-one with buyers interested in sourcing handmade goods. Ultimately, I believe this model helps sustain valuable artisanal traditions and positively impacts the communities in which artisans work, both environmentally and economically.
You currently live in Paris (the dream!). Do you have some favorites that you can share so I can bookmark them immediately?
Yes, Paris has been my home for the last five years! I moved on a whim, trusted my gut, and haven't looked back. It's been a great home base, to say the least.
Annie’s Paris Picks
Check out Le Mont St Michel for the chicest work jacket in so many fabulous colors. Le Mont St Michel
For friends based stateside, follow Porta, NY. They offer beautiful European dinnerware, such as this ceramic line from Spain. Porta, NY
For home décor, I highly recommend LaMaison de Commerce for exquisite ceramics and European-made items. It has some of the most uniquely sourced ceramics and home accessories from European craftsmen. I especially love this chic French line. LaMaison de Commerce
Another Paris favorite for ceramics and tabletop finds. Ailleurs
If I were to buy clothing from only one shop in Paris, it would be Les Prairies des Paris. They source fabric from Japanese mills which is then assembled and sewn in France. Their striped Oxford shirts are perfection. Les Prairies des Paris
For eats, try Le Dauphin, the newly opened Le Goncourt, and Septime. If you have time, visit Septime's partner restaurant/B&B in Normandy called D'une ile. It makes for a dreamy weekend getaway.
Other favorites in Paris include Landline and Les Tresories.
Annie’s Travel Essentials
As someone who travels the world on sourcing trips, do you have any packing essentials?
You'd think I'd be better at packing by now, but I'm slowlyyyy improving, lol.
For work trips where I need to get stuff done, I love my Jesse Kamm 225 dark jeans. I love how you can dress them up or down. Jesse Kamm Jeans $425
For summer shoes, I live in Castaner white and/or black espadrilles. Castaner Espadrilles $105
I love all of Emme Parsons sandals and the fisherman sandals are at the top of my wishlist. Emme Parsons Ernest Sandal $515
Because I travel so much, I usually pack a lot of simple black-and-white basics – I love the tops from Shaina Mote. Shaina Mote Chunky Bralette $174
I turn to my Datura dresses (especially this polka dot one) if I need something nice but easy to pack. Datura Polka Silk Shirt Dress $490
My essential travel purse is this lovely find from my friend's shop in Paris, crafted in a small French atelier. John Woodbridge Leather Go Out Bag $325
When heading to the beach, I always bring a Palorosa bag. I love all their beautiful colors, especially this clay tone. Palorosa Bag $155
Where have you gone recently that surprised or astounded you? Any places you’re dying to get back to?
I was recently in Romania, and to be honest it was really eye-opening. Not many people seem to go to this part of the world, but I found it stunning – it was so authentic and not touristy. Transylvania feels like the Provence of Eastern Europe. There are so many chic little hotels to stay at, and its a photographer's dream. The authenticity of this country is hard to find throughout the rest of Western Europe. You can get a feel for some of them here.
Next on my travel list is Mallorca. This island is just dreamy. I'm particularly drawn to the northern coast, its wilder landscapes, endless walking trails, and secret beaches. If you visit, stop by this farm-to-table restaurant. For ceramic lovers, don't miss Dora Ceramics while you're on the island.
Thank you, Annie!!
xo
Elyse