DoT highlights locally made souvenirs
(CNS Business): The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is putting the spotlight on local craftsmen who create authentic goods only found in Cayman. DoT officials said this is part of their push to offer the unique “Made in Cayman Islands” brand by promoting businesses that make items which represent Cayman’s culture.
The department hosted the first round of vendor presentations in early March, when talented artisans gave their business pitches on why their crafts should be highlighted. DoT officials explained that so far, the department has met with ten local businesses but they are encouraging more vendors to submit their information to DoT to be recognized in future presentations.
Cayman Craft Market
Rosemary Miller spends her days selling her crafts at the George Town’s Craft Market. She told CNS Business that what she does is more than just a job; it’s her life. Miller said she is thinking about presenting her craft to DoT and is happy local artisans are getting the recognition they deserve.
“It gives us more motivation to keep on working at what we like to do. A lot of people believe we don’t do these things here in Cayman and we do, because everything on my table, anything you ask me, I make it for you right here,” she said.
Miller explained it’s important to pass down these traditions to younger generations to keep this type of craftsmanship alive.
Janet Minzet said for her it’s part of a family tradition. She says she has been making homemade crafts since she was 7-years-old.
“When they see you make it here and buy it, they know it’s real, that it’s not from China because people want something that is hand-made and local-made,” she explained.
Vacationer Nora Floderan, visiting from New York City, told CNS Business, “It supports the local economy and the purpose of coming to these places is to find local art, local wares and not to buy imported goods. That’s why I purchased today.”
Tourism officials said it’s all about creating lasting memories with our guest and ultimately enhancing their experience by offering keepsakes that are unique to the destination. Minister of Tourism, Moses Kirkconnell, applauds the efforts of the department to focus on partnerships with local entrepreneurs who provide authentic items that showcase Caymanian culture and celebrate the people of the Cayman Islands.
“The arts and crafts skills of our forefathers are handed down from generations and that complex knowledge is acquired only after long periods of apprenticeship, oftentimes by sitting with one’s elders in the kitchen or on the front porch to get the hands on secrets of the trade. The products that come from this are often some of the most beloved treasures of the country, whether it’s an elaborate piece of Caymanite, treasured thatch creations that is handed down in a family or that secret family recipe for mango jam that amazes at every family gathering. The efforts of the Department of Tourism to incorporate these local goods into their inventory reinforce our commitment to shining the light on all things local,” he said.
Director of Tourism Rosa Harris added, “It was a great opportunity for our team to meet with the first group as we learned of some products that we hadn’t heard of before. It was also beneficial for vendors to learn about the way in which DoT supports the unique small businesses within our community,” she said.
Harris explained, “The outreach and information exchange is beneficial in showing our true Caymanian arts and culture. DoT will continue to promote these businesses as we know visitors consider shopping a top activity during their vacations in the Cayman Islands. DoT supports our local craftsmen, cooks, and artisans and applauds their efforts to share authentic items with our visitors.”
The deadline for vendors to submit their application to the Department of Tourism is 23 April.
