The elephant in the room.

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I always knew I wanted personalized bags (cuz that’s how I roll), and definitely wanted reusable ones to suit our Eco-Green endeavors… but being broke-ass doesn’t really suit either of those desires. So, when my sister and bro-in-law came through town on their way to Bali, and mentioned they could get bags made for a fraction of American prices, we were all about it. I sent the file to their contact in Bali, and the bags were ready within a week! My sis was generous enough to carry all 50 home with her, to save us shipping costs. We couldn’t believe how beautifully they turned out! They were even better than we dreamt they’d be.

All told, we got 50 custom canvas bags with 2 colors printed, for $80 dollars. You just can’t beat it! Yes, we know we could have used paper bags for much less, but our carbon karma would have been no bueno. And I think…. I hope…. that they’re just cute enough that people will actually reuse them, even if just for groceries.

Ah, how I wish I could get everything from Bali. Our broke-ass wedding would be. so. pimp.

We plan to stuff the bags with all sorts of goodies, creature comforts and travel necessities - along with the requisite itinerary and maps, of course! We’ll attach a note to explain the meaning of the logo, too - so our friends and family aren’t like “What the (insert expletive) does this elephant have to do with weddings?”

But, what does it mean? Well, I’m glad you asked!

We chose the Ganesh because he is known in Hindu as the Remover of Obstacles and the Lord of Beginnings. According to Kundalini Yoga, Ganesha resides in the first chakra (at the solar plexus), and he holds, supports and guides all other chakras, thereby governing the forces that propel the wheel of life. That’s right folks, Ganesha is the captain of your Chakra ship. Or maybe in our case, the captain of our Magic Carpet Ride!

I love how this interpretation of him is loose and romantic - even his ears resemble hearts! I included the lotus flower, known for its divine beauty, because the unfolding petals can be seen to represent expansion of the soul. How fitting, I think!

Now, in case you’re wondering - neither Hunter nor I are Hindu, or Buddhist. But we are lovers of Pan-Asian arts and cultures (and yoga). We respect many aspects of their respective faiths, and try to integrate those things into our everyday lives. We’re designing a very eclectic ceremony which borrows our favorite bits of many world religions and spiritual practices, and integrating that sensibility into our design as well. Hence, our Magic Carpet Ride theme!

That’s right, friends. My name is Dana, and I’m a bit of a dirty hippie. Represent!