About
Our Story
The idea for Wanderlusty Woman was born high in the Andes, on a spiritual trek where Kristen and Ashley were immersed in the ancient wisdom of Peruvian shamans.
After meeting a fellow traveler – a woman who had set out alone because no one back home could join her – Kristen and Ashley listened as she shared her story. She had craved unique experiences and the camaraderie of like-minded souls but found herself feeling disappointed and isolated, struggling to connect and unsure of how to make the most of her journey. She longed for a travel experience that was truly bespoke and shared.
Inspired by her story, Kristen and Ashley felt the pull to create something that would offer women around the world the chance to connect, explore, and uplift one another. In Cusco, their journey took an unexpected turn with a conversation about launching a business which merges travel, community and entrepreneurship.
But their inspiration didn’t stop there. As they continued their trek, Kristen and Ashley connected with local women from the indigenous communities who crafted beautiful, intricate weavings – works of art, steeped in tradition, yet often overlooked. These women were talented artisans, but their market was limited to a few passing tourists, restricting their reach and prosperity. The passion these artisans poured into every piece deserved recognition, respect, and a much wider audience. Kristen and Ashley knew they could help amplify these women's voices and craft, giving them access to a global community that would truly appreciate the art, love and history woven into every item.
From there, Wanderlusty Woman’s purpose only grew.
Kristen and Ashley have since traveled to places like Spain, Hong Kong, Bali, Thailand, Greece, Italy, and Mexico, connecting through gatherings designed for friendship, business growth, adventure, and the celebration and appreciation of each unique culture. In every place, they deepen bonds with local artisans and fellow travelers alike, building a world where women support and empower each other.
Through Wanderlusty Woman, travelers can make meaningful purchases that directly impact artisan communities, ensuring these traditions thrive and these women gain the prosperity they deserve.
Wanderlusty Woman now stands as a bridge – connecting women across continents, enriching lives through shared adventures, and honoring the beauty of handmade, culturally-rooted craftsmanship in every corner of the globe.
Kristen White
Kristen White is a force of connection and curiosity, living out her passion for travel and storytelling in a way that empowers women worldwide. With a background as a journalist and documentary filmmaker, Kristen has dedicated her life to uncovering the untold stories of women’s challenges and triumphs across diverse cultures. She’s a storyteller at heart, driven to go beyond the surface and reveal the strength and resilience of women around the globe. Through Wanderlusty Woman, Kristen has created a vibrant community that merges her love for exploration with a mission to elevate the fortunes of women and girls in meaningful ways. Whether she’s sourcing handcrafted treasures in Bali or connecting with artisans in Ibiza, Kristen brings her vision to life by supporting women artisans and entrepreneurs, making each travel experience an opportunity to uplift and empower.
For Kristen, travel isn’t just about destinations – it’s about tapping into life force energy, feeding curiosity, and creating connections that make a real difference.
Ashley Maxwell
Ashley Maxwell is all about style that speaks and fashion that fuels confidence. With a fearless eye for vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces, Ashley brings treasures from around the world right into your life. But it's not just about looking good – it's about feeling alive, joyful, and daring enough to express who you truly are.
Ashley’s heart beats for women and girls everywhere who dream big. She’s not only curating gorgeous finds; she’s also helping budding entrepreneurs turn their own creative sparks into micro-fashion businesses. For Ashley, every piece she shares is a reminder to live boldly, feel beautiful, and embrace life with passion and joy.
Our Mission
We all know that rush of stumbling onto a stunning, handmade piece at a bustling market. It’s not just shopping – it’s supporting, uplifting, and connecting. At Wanderlusty Woman, every item we bring into the shop is a little blessing with a big purpose. From the handwoven goods crafted by Peruvian women to those gorgeous, vintage textile luggage tags straight out of Guatemala, every item has a story. But here’s the best part: each purchase isn’t just filling your travel bag; it’s filling hearts and homes. Fair trade prices mean families get essentials – we’re talking health care, schoolbooks, eyeglasses, a solid roof over their heads, and meals on the table. So go ahead, treat yourself! Every purchase you make is more than a keepsake; it’s a power move that bridges worlds, supports artisans, and gives back where it counts. Shopping with purpose never looked so good – or felt so rewarding.
