Why Choose Us?
Ayllu (Quechua for "community") began as a dream sparked by a visit to the Ecuadorean Andes. My passion for helping underdeveloped communities in Ecuador led me to travel back in April 2019 to better understand the challenges faced by Andean artisans. I discovered that while they possessed extraordinary skills, they lacked access to larger markets. This realization inspired the creation of AYLLU Collections—a brand that connects their talent with the world. Since then, we’ve been working with artisans from Otavalo, promoting fair trade, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting local economies.
Ayllu is much more than just beautiful creations; it is a tribute to our communities' history and a vision for their sustainable future. In addition to promoting artisan craftsmanship, we proudly donate 3% of our revenue to nonprofits dedicated to rescuing and caring for homeless dogs and cats in Ecuador. With every purchase, you’re not only bringing a piece of Ecuadorean heritage into your home but also contributing to a meaningful cause, supporting both our artisans and animals in need, and helping create lasting change.
A little background on Ecuador and Otavalo
Ecuador is a small country located in South America. Due to its ecosystem, it is considered a megadiverse nation. It is divided into 4 regions: “El Oriente” (the Amazon Region), “La Sierra” (the Andes Region), “La Costa” (The Pacific Coast), and Galapagos Islands. In addition to its diverse flora and wildlife, Ecuador is a multicultural and multi-ethnic nation. It is the home of over ten different native indigenous nations in addition to the main mestizo population. Indeed, Ecuador is a Nation form of Nations.
Otavalo is a town in Northern Ecuador. It is known for its Otavalo Market in the central Plaza de Ponchos, where traditionally clad indigenous townspeople sell colorful textiles and handicrafts.
