About Us
Welcome from Tena, Ecuador! We are Ben, Debbie, and Cayambe (our dog). The past 5 years were spent moving between the US, India, and eventually landed in the Amazon region of Ecuador.
Throughout our moves, we discovered our mutual desire to work towards living a sustainable lifestyle – everything from zero waste, focusing on plant-based foods, learning more about conscious and ethical buying and consuming, eliminating toxins from our home and more.
We started focusing on building rather than buying, eventually creating a minimal and simple lifestyle. Through this process our house slowly started becoming a home and there was a noticeable shift in what surrounded us. Our home, affectionately referred to as “Kushi Tambo” (Kichwa for “joy” and “shelter,” respectively) transferred into its namesake- a joy-filled haven. Physically it became a space filled with conscious, intentional and ethical purchases- all carrying deep meaning and stories behind them. Brewing beneath the surface was this dream to soon share our passion to live sustainably with others.
Simultaneously, we were being immersed in the lifestyle and rhythms of life of indigenous communities around us. Soon recognizing many similarities in how their lives aligned with our values- through what mattered to them, what products we were filling our homes with and lifestyle choices we were making. So we decided to open up the opportunity to collaborate with indigenous communities here in the Amazon.
Through this store, we not only hope to encourage conscious and ethical buying, but also increased awareness of indigenous communities here in Ecuador. We desire to give artisans here a platform to keep designing and pursuing their art, carrying through with their ancient designs and practices.
We do believe in cultivating and creating a cozy home that reflects your own values for life. So each item you purchase will evoke a memory within you! Our home is filled with products that have meaning, purpose and intentionality behind them – most of which you will find here in the store. So we hope you are able to find something that brings your home to life as well.
Behind the name…
Tandana (tahn-DAHN-ah) is a Kichwa word meaning “to gather together” or “to collect.” We love to collect things, from river stones to artwork to memories. A house doesn’t feel like a home without a personalized collection of items or decorations that hold their own special value and story. By providing a connection to the unique work of local artisans, we hope to help add something meaningful to your own collection.
Our Core Values
As we welcome you into our small corner of the internet, we want you to know what we care deeply for:
Our products
Ethically sourced/organic material/handmade/ eco-friendly/sustainable material/made with love
Our Artisans
To create awareness around indigenous communities, their culture and their lifestyle. Promoting sustainable practices they embed into their day-to-day.
Our Desire
For your home to be filled with products that bring you joy and are purchased with purpose.
