Belief and intense gut-feel were how it all started for this dream pop-up store to happen. A few months ago, former banker, visual artist and entrepreneur Martie Datu visited Dubai. It has been 10 years since she last set foot in UAE, and she was amazed with the many changes she has seen since her last visit. She then went to the renowned Alserkal Avenue, a district known for its vibrancy and culture, and upon seeing the area, she just knew in her heart that her beloved store, The Fine Life Market, has found its special space in this desert oasis. Back in Manila, she then sent an email to the organizers of Alserkal Avenue. From there, what once was only an earnest desire has found its way to reality.
The Fine Life Market (TFLM), the passion-child of Filipino visual artist Martie Datu, was born at the height of pandemic in 2020 in Manila, Philippines. Needing a way to express her creativity and also help communities affected by the lockdown, she started to source and sell the wares of artisans all over the Philippines, from the provinces of Bicol, Romblon, Iloilo and La Union. She also learned and made beeswax candles and castile soaps. All of these were initially sold online. As she gained steadfast and loyal clientele, she found more ways to expand TFLM, which eventually led to the opening of her first brick-and-mortar store along Brixton Street in Pasig City, Philippines on May 2022. In this store, she not only sold goods, but a whole lifestyle of slow-living, usage of eco-friendly and sustainable products, and championing artisanal wares which she herself collaborated to create with several artisans. Visiting her store is like being transported into a well-thought, warm and loved home, an utter luxury that many aspire to have. The Fine Life Market is indeed an extension of Martie herself, a warm and loving person as she is known to her family and friends.
And as you visit The Fine Life Market in Alserkal Avenue in Dubai, you are set to experience the same feel and warmth, and be treated with a variety of curated Filipino crafts created by the same artisans who Martie has been working with for years. Everything that comes from the store is a combination of hard work and passion from its maker, a piece that one will treasure for years to come. A piece that is truly worthy of being in your home.
The Fine Life Market is also a proud partner of International Justice Mission (IJM). For more than 20 years now, IJM is a global organization which aims to help protect millions of people from everyday violence. In the Philippines, IJM works with the Judiciary branch of government specifically on the online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). A percentage of the sales of The Fine Life Market is donated to the efforts of IJM to protect more children from exploitation.
The Fine Life Market pop up store in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai is ongoing until February 18, 2024, a Sunday. As the first Filipino store in Alserkal Avenue, you are invited to experience the unique brand of slow-living, Filipino warmth, and hospitality that TFLM provides. You are invited to relax, linger and learn more about what they offer, a luxury experience in itself.