Travel Diary: Crafting Our Portuguese-Made Collection

Discovering Guimarães: A Journey Through Portugal’s Textile Heart

Traveling to Portugal is always an adventure, but for our Head Designer, Ross, his recent expedition to Guimarães—where he met with suppliers and explored factories to bring our new Portugal Reserve collection to life—was truly unforgettable. Overflowing with captivating sights, delectable cuisine, and engaging conversations, this journey showcased the best of Portuguese culture. Starting in the vibrant city of Porto, renowned for its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere, Ross found himself enchanted by Guimarães—a charming medieval town just a 45-minute drive away. Here, he discovered a rich tapestry of history and culture that left a lasting impression.

A Historical Gem

Guimarães is often hailed as the birthplace of Portugal, dating back to the 10th century. It is not just a town; it is a treasure trove of history. The town holds a significant place in the national consciousness as the birthplace of the first king of Portugal, making it a place of great pride for locals. Walking through its cobblestone streets, surrounded by medieval architecture, one can almost hear the whispers of the past.

A Unique Venue

During his visit, Ross had the chance to attend an event held in an old monastery built in the 12th century, which has since been transformed into a five-star hotel. Each supplier at the show occupied a room in the hotel, showcasing their beautiful products in a unique and intimate setting. It was a brilliant opportunity for Ross to connect with new suppliers and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. The atmosphere was serene, with bubbling fountains and picturesque outdoor spaces enhancing the charm of the venue.

A Family-Owned Tradition

What stood out to Ross during his time in Guimarães was the commitment of the local textile factories to family ownership. Many of these businesses have been passed down through generations, fostering a strong sense of integrity and quality in their products. It was refreshing for him to hear suppliers emphasize their dedication to transparency, ensuring that what customers see in their showrooms is exactly what they’ll receive. This integrity is crucial in building long-term relationships, and it was clear that the suppliers took great pride in their work

A Beautiful Coastal Town

After exploring Guimarães, Ross took some time to enjoy the city of Porto and its nearby coastline, renowned for its stunning views and fresh seafood. The contrast between the historical town and the beautiful beaches was breathtaking. The locals were proud of their heritage and worked hard to preserve their traditions while embracing modernity.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on his journey, Ross felt a deep gratitude for the experiences he had in Guimarães. The combination of rich history, delicious food, and genuine hospitality made for an unforgettable adventure. This charming town is not only a hub for textile production but also a beautiful representation of Portuguese culture. 

So, if you’re ever in northern Portugal, Ross highly recommends making the trip to Guimarães—you won’t regret it!

Meet Montego, the latest addition to our Portugal Reserve line.

Ross, surrounded by textiles in his natural habitat!

You can shop the new Portugal Reserve collection here and explore our Fall collections to experience the elegance of our Canadian-designed bedding selection, meticulously crafted by our talented in-house design team, including Ross. Whether you choose to shop online or visit your nearest store, we’re here to help you find the perfect pieces for your home. Happy browsing!