

Some people say shopping is my addiction, but I think of it as my passion. I must admit sometimes it can get me into a little trouble. I can't begin to explain the thrill of the hunt for that unique special treasure. I so enjoy meeting the people in my travels and trying to interpret the explanation of the treasure that sparked my interest.
Although communication is tough you can always see and feel the gratitude on their faces. It is wonderful to encounter people who are so proud of their trade and eager to share their craft.
Nothing is more rewarding than being asked to share in ritual, getting a hug or having an entire family (parents, kids and grandparents) come to your hotel to deliver your purchases and say thank you. It makes you feel so special that you get to be a part of their culture and family.
As a shopper, you know it is hard to walk away from a great find. So you can imagine the difficulty in saying no when an item is adorable and you can do something good on the spot. More times that not, the item is something that I am not going to be able to find again. Many times these people are so remote that trying to locate them again is near impossible.
As I wander down a side street or stop on the side of the road I want to allow these people to feed their families and make a living off their trade. This causes a dilemma when the treasures are not in your market or you can't get in large quantities. Yet as a wise cricket once said, "When your heart is in your dream, no request is too extreme." Jiminy Cricket
Through life's dilemmas they say comes inspiration. I believe that led to us launching Tessera's Travel Trunk. Once a month we will update our site with those wonderful treasures we found along our travels that have filled our hearts as well as our trunks.
I hope you enjoy the treasures as much as I do. Always remember your pieces are crafted with love and joy and that every piece tells a story.
To schedule a showroom visit, or for more product specifics, please call me, Cristi Ambroson, at 713-661-4935 or e-mail cristi@exploretessera.com.
The Tessera showroom is located at 4404-A West 12th, Houston, TX, USA 77055.
Visits by appointment only, please.