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Larissa Rolley

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Travel, culture, & photography

Entrepreneur | Tour Operator | Drone Pilot | Photographer | Videographer

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Enhance your life through art & travel.

Partner Choose Chicago & Tahiti Travel Specialist.
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Join me. Take a look around my site. I created it as a way to share my joy with you. From the unexpected beautiful image to brighten your day to the latest news on events, my list is the first to know what’s new, travel specials, and what’s going on. And since I know you appreciate being the first to know, I invite you to sign up here and get a photo from Tahiti to use as a zoom background : click here to join me

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Larissa

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larissarolley

Travel, Voyages & Creativity
Chicago, Tahiti, the World
✈️ drone pilot
Connecting Cultures with a polyglot soul.
#LifeIsBiggerThanBorders
👇🏼

For my final installment of women in Pune, India,

Let me take you on an exciting entrepreneurial jou

During a conversation with Aditi Athalye, I learne

During a conversation with Aditi Athalye, I learned about her efforts to help women in modern India provide traditional foods to their families. With more women working outside the home, time is a precious commodity. Aditi explained that some women who continue to cook are forced to take shortcuts to prepare meals faster, leading to unhealthy options for their families. She wanted to provide ready made options while remaining faithful to the traditional recipes, creating Faralandmore and Shreepad Enterprises.

As Aditi was preparing handmade sweet dumplings for me made with rice flour, I couldn't help but notice the beauty of her hands and the shape and formation of her fingers. I remarked that they looked like those of a dancer, and to my surprise, Aditi revealed that she used to be one. She went on to show me that the shape of the hands from Indian dance when applied to physical form can lead to the creation of miniature works of art that resemble the tops of certain Indian temples. She also shared that the symbolic meanings of the mudras, or hand gestures used in yoga for example, infuse her production with vital energy.

Aditi further elaborated on how her dance background has influenced her food manufacturing business. She explained that learning rhythm in dance has carried over to the rhythm of her production line. The precision and flow required in dance are also necessary for manufacturing, and Aditi has found that her experience as a dancer has helped her to maintain that rhythm in her work.

Aditi's journey from dancer to entrepreneur highlights the deep connections between various art forms in India. Her ability to incorporate her dance background into her food manufacturing business demonstrates the resilience and creativity of Indian women as they navigate the challenges of modernity while carrying forward the traditions of their culture.

BTW, the sweet dumplings are delicious!!
You can purchase her signature product - the red box of coconut-filled Karanjee at her boutique in the Business Hub in Pune, India. Karanjee is a sweet snack from the Maharashtrian cuisine and is often made for festivals

Taste, Tradition, Trust.
www.faralandmore.com

In honor of International Women's Day, I would lik

In honor of International Women's Day, I would like to take this opportunity to celebrate and highlight the achievements of two young female entrepreneurs in India.

Suhani Dhadphale is an inspiring young female entrepreneur who is actively creating markets for artisans and artists to sell their unique creations. By recognizing and uplifting these women, we can help to create a more equitable and inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. In my previous post, I focused on her friend, whom I also had the pleasure of meeting, Janhavi Joshi. We all met up for a bite to eat and to chat in Pune, India and that is when I really learned what excites both of them.

Suhani's motto, "Hustle | Seek | Give," is a testament to her determination to help others succeed. Suhani has initiated multiple businesses that support artists, artisans, and mindset newsletters, to name a few.

It's incredible to see how Suhani is using her skills and resources to uplift others and bring value to her community in Pune. Her passion and drive for entrepreneurship are truly admirable, and her efforts are making a significant impact.

Even though I may not have won the lottery of talents like Suhani, it's essential to remember that everyone has unique strengths and abilities.

Many thanks to Anand Godse of the DeAsra Foundation for introducing us.

In honor of International Women's Day, I would lik

Welcome to the world of the studio of MatiBani, wh

Welcome to the world of the studio of MatiBani, where functional ceramic meets artistic expression inspired by traditional motifs of India.

Tejal Mehendale's work is inspired by the rich cultural heritage of India, and she incorporates traditional motifs like mandalas and folk art into her designs. Slip tracing and Mendhi (henna art) are two traditional art forms in India that share similarities in their design and techniques. Both are used to create intricate and detailed designs that are considered a form of body art or decoration.

Slip tracing involves applying a mixture of clay and water, known as slip, to the surface of the pottery, creating intricate designs and patterns. Similarly, Mendhi is a form of body decoration that involves applying a paste made from henna leaves onto the skin in intricate designs, which are left to dry and stain the skin.

The designs in both art forms are often inspired by traditional motifs such as mandalas, flowers, paisley/mangos, and other natural elements. They may also be symmetrical, creating a sense of balance and harmony. Tejal offers her fresh take on these designs, which are then glazed with beautiful colors.

Tejal is constantly experimenting with new glazes and techniques to bring a fresh perspective to her creations. She continues to be inspired by and influenced by traditional art forms. Her dedication to experimentation and incorporation of traditional motifs certainly makes her creations unique and meaningful. In the last photo, I am having a morning coffee in one of her mugs in Chicago. It's amazing how a simple mug can hold such special memories and remind us of cherished moments.

Thank you for allowing me to share my experience and appreciation for Tejal's work.

For more info check out her Instagram page: @matibahi_pottery

Her studio, MatiBani, offers pieces from mugs and bowls to vases and plates, each with its own story to tell. And if you're feeling creative, join one of Tejal's workshops and discover the joy of pottery for yourself.
Mātibāni ~ (माटीबानी) - MatiBani means 'the language of clay'.

I had the pleasure of visiting C'ya boutique in Pu

I had the pleasure of visiting C'ya boutique in Pune, India, and meeting the talented woman behind the store, Vaishali. Her passion for creating unique, custom outfits and incorporating traditional hand embroidery techniques is truly inspiring.
As I walked up the stairs into her boutique I could see the 3 words that speak to her philosophy: Design Stitch Create.

Inside, I was struck by the beauty of the outfits and fabrics on display, from stunning embroidered blouses to elegant fusion wear. What sets C'ya apart is their ability to take an heirloom sari and turn it into a beautiful, modern outfit that can be worn for any occasion. The team is skilled at working with delicate fabrics and can create new clothing that honors the beauty and history of the original piece. Or if you are like me with no sari, I will have to buy an old one at a market in Mumbai to bring to her. Plan in advance, so she will have time for the creation.

Vaishali maintains a commitment to using traditional South Indian handwork techniques and her embroidery is simply stunning. Each piece is created with care and attention to detail, resulting in garments that are truly works of art.

Whether you're looking for a custom outfit for a special occasion or a unique off-the-rack casual piece (one collection has pockets!) to add to your wardrobe, C'ya is the place to go.

Of course, we had to have a quick bite to eat nearby! Thank you, Vaishali!!!

If you're in Pune, stop by C'ya boutique!

C'ya Boutique
Laxmibhargav, Plot No. 53, Pratidnya Hall Lane,
Natraj society, Karvenagar, Pune 41105

Design | Stitch | Create 🌼
Customized outfits | Western and Traditional Wear
Embroidered Blouses | Fusion Wear

I recently had the pleasure of meeting the talente

I recently had the pleasure of meeting the talented woman behind several brands, Debjani Banerji. Her business, Srishti Lifestyle, is not just about fashion, but also about promoting the use of natural materials and supporting local artisans. Do you see the maroon color of her sari matches the color of her sign?

If you scroll to the 2nd photo, the vibrant pink walls immediately caught my eye of the first workshop and drew me in. Inside, I was greeted by a team of skilled artisans who were busy sewing bags and totes and creating beautiful books with handmade paper pages. Some sit at sewing machines, others are comfortable on the floor.

By using jute, Debjani is contributing towards reducing the environmental damage caused by plastic bags. Jute is a sustainable material that is biodegradable and can be easily recycled. It also provides a unique texture and durability. Debjani's bags are not only eco-friendly but also visually stunning and practical. She has a knack for embellishing some collections with leather, giving them an added touch of elegance. Other collections have elements of traditional Warli paintings, which are a unique style of tribal art from Maharashtra.

Srishti Lifestyle is a collection of brands that reflect Debjani's values and her commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable world.
You can check out products online at srishtilifestyle.com & craftus.in and ship globally. If you're in Pune, please stop by Srishti Lifestyle to see the beautiful work being done and to support this amazing business.

"Blending tradition with contemporary, Srishti offers a uniqueness to traditional Indian handicrafts."

#SrishtiLifestyle #SustainableFashion #WarliPainting #NaturalMaterials #LocalInspiration #PreservingTraditions #Artisans #Pune #India #CulturalHeritage #SupportSmallBusinesses #ShopLocal #craftus #ecofriendly #warlipainting Srishti-House of Handicrafts and Interior Accessories #vocalforlocal #madeinindia #shopsustainable #bettertogether

Happy Women's Month! In January, I had the oppor

Happy Women's Month!

In January, I had the opportunity to meet some incredible women entrepreneurs in Pune, India, who are doing amazing things to preserve their cultural heritage while also creating something new and innovative. Over the next few posts, I will share their stories with you, and I hope you will be as inspired as I was.

These women are all finding unique and creative ways to carry on their traditions, infusing them with cultural significance and making them relevant to modern lifestyles. From fashion to food, their products reflect the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines India.

I'm excited to introduce you to these fabulous entrepreneurs, and I hope that you will support their businesses by purchasing directly from them if you ever pass through Pune. I will be producing a list of their boutiques so that you can easily find them and see the amazing work that they're doing.

I'm constantly amazed by the resilience and creativity of women entrepreneurs, and these women are no exception. They're using their talents and skills to create beautiful, meaningful products that honor their heritage and inspire us all.

So, stay tuned for the upcoming posts, and let's celebrate these incredible women who are making a difference in their communities and beyond.

Let their stories inspire you to follow your passions, take risks, and make your mark on the world.

photo: This is me at the Modhera Sun Temple, located in the state of Gujarat, it is a stunning example of ancient Hindu temple architecture. Built in the 11th century, the temple features stunning intricate carvings and a beautiful stepped pool that you see behind me, filled with numerous sunning turtles.

Nous sommes pareils aux fleurs qui s'ouvrent, nous

Nous sommes pareils aux fleurs qui s'ouvrent, nous ne faisons que devenir un peu plus nous-mêmes. - Anne Rice

March is a time of renewal and growth, just like the flowers that are blooming! Let's take this opportunity to become even more of our true selves. We can do this by exploring our passions and embracing the beauty of being ourselves!

❤️ Happy Valentine's Day! Celebrate the love

❤️
Happy Valentine's Day!
Celebrate the love and life that surround you.
❤️
(sand drawing of a large heart I made last year at Pointe Venus in Tahiti)

As we head into February, let's take some time to

As we head into February, let's take some time to embrace our curiosity and find the wonder in each and every day. Be inspired by the amazing possibilities the month has to offer and never lose our curiosity!

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery each day.
—"Old Man's Advice to Youth: 'Never Lose a Holy Curiosity.'" LIFE Magazine
― Albert Einstein

Sunset along Marine drive in Mumbai on a hazy even

Sunset along Marine drive in Mumbai on a hazy evening.

It was a beautiful evening along Marine Drive in Mumbai. The sun was setting and the hazy sky glowed in muted oranges and purples. The wind was gentle and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was soothing. Everyone was in a relaxed mood, taking in the beauty of the moment.

Throughout the golden hour, people began arriving. They were all taking photos of the glorious sunset at Marine Drive. Some were taking selfies, some were taking pictures with their friends, and some were just taking pictures to capture the moment. The scene was truly magical. Everyone was having a great time, enjoying the beauty of nature, and each other's company. The sound of the sea, the laughter, and the clicks of the cameras made it all even more special.

Soon, the crowd of people had become a mosaic of different perspectives. Each person had their own unique perspective and each shot was a masterpiece. The crowds of people created a unique artwork - they had all made a small part of the Marine Drive in Mumbai a bit more beautiful and unforgettable.

As the sun set, everyone went their separate ways, but the memories of that evening lingered in their minds. The sun eventually disappeared from sight, and the crowd slowly dispersed. But the memory of the beautiful sunset on Marine Drive in Mumbai will remain with each person forever.

Watch more sunrises together than Netflix.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

I'm so honored to have had the opportunity to meet

I'm so honored to have had the opportunity to meet an inspiring group of ladies from Kashmir. They made the journey all the way from their homes near the border with Pakistan to Pune, India to learn about starting their own businesses. I'm excited to see what they achieve in the future!

Organizations like DeAsra Foundation, CEED (The Centre for Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Development) - Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, and Aseem Foundation gave these 15 women entrepreneurs from Jammu & Kashmir a chance to take part in training in Pune to secure livelihoods through their bakery projects,

These ladies have taken a fantastic step toward their dreams and it's inspiring to see. I hope to see them again.
Let's keep celebrating their success!
Here are just a few photos to share with you.
#womeninbusiness, #womenbusinessowners #womenentrepreneurs #india

Check out these organizations as well.
Development Through Friendship Aseem Foundation @aseemfoundation #developmentthroughfriendship #JammuAndKashmir
DeAsra Foundation #massentrepreneurship
@ceed_gipe
@godbole_pradnya
@gipe_official

Instagram post 18193168231243111

Instagram post 18193168231243111

Morning at the Sassoon Docks, the biggest fish mar

Morning at the Sassoon Docks, the biggest fish market in India, if you go to Mumbai you should check it out!
#visitindia #sassoon #fishmarket #solotravels #solofemaletravel #mumbaicity #bombaydreams #traveldeeper #lifeisbiggerthanborders #solowomentravel

START India - wonderful exhibits at the fishing po

START India - wonderful exhibits at the fishing port - Iwish I could invite all of you to see it!
#mumbai #startindia #sassoondocks #streetartworldwide

At sunset on the island of Tahiti, a lone standup

At sunset on the island of Tahiti, a lone standup paddle boarder in the distance is silhouetted against the gorgeous sky. The flowers of the purau tree shimmer in the golden light, inviting artists and travelers alike to come explore this stunning paradise.

Are you ready to explore the world and all its possibilities? This New Year's Day, take a moment and let your imagination run wild. Let's create a beautiful masterpiece of the year before us. Make it your own, and make it something special, Let's make this new year 2023 a year to remember!

December - décembre - Titema La Terre est ronde

December - décembre - Titema

La Terre est ronde pour que l'amitié l'entour.
The Earth is round for friendship to go around.
- Pierre Teilhard De Chardin

Enjoy your friends this holiday season.

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Tahiti Travel Consultant
Chicago DMC Travel
Photo, Video & Drone
Photography for Travelers Course
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