Thailand is a gorgeous country visited by many for its delicious food and warm people. Although we were able to stay in Bangkok and Chang Mai a few days, we also stayed in a few remote villages through homestay. Although there are a variety of homestay options, the places we stayed were in northern villages with little to no modern conveniences, in the homes of same people that fed us, and taught us their traditions. We stayed in three different native villages, the Hmong, Dara And, and Akha.
These are the photographs I captured while spending time in the Dara And Village. the rest of my group was learning how to back strap weave fabric, and although I had a chance to do that as well, I ventured off to play games with the young children of the village. We picked berries and stained our hands with their juices. It was a game of tag, and the loser would get red ink all over their shirt!
To our surprise, the village was planning a celebration of a marriage. The wedding day was purposfully planned to have our presence and support as the young couple celebrated the traditions of their people in union.
It took me a few minutes to offer my services of photographer, and felt honored to be a part of such a beautiful day in this special unique way. With only laughs and silence we understood the importance of this wedding day, as the long standing traditions of the Dara Ang were woven throughout the celebration. The bride was adorned with family jewelry and intricate hand made garments that are shared on this special day. Their hands were bound with string, and guests offer gifts to them to start their journey together.
Donna and her people
This tour was only possible due to the connections made by Donna Louise, a seamstress, creative coach and all around good person. She had been cultivating these friendships for years, helping these women support and sustain their villages.