Baskets filled with chocolate eggs, a velvet-soft bunny bringing sweet treats, celebrations of new life with baby lambs and chicks. We’ve taken a closer look at some of our favourite Easter decorations, what they represent and how they’re made.

When you think of Easter, it’s hard to stop bunnies bouncing into mind. In the 18th century, German settlers who immigrated to America told the tale of the ‘Osterhase’ (in English: the Easter Hare), a fluffy, button-tailed folklore animal who rewarded well-behaved children with sweets and eggs. And the eggs are another significant Easter symbol, dating back thousands of years. Persian societies would gift each other eggs to mark new life and celebrate the beginning of the spring equinox. Early Christians in Mesopotamia adopted the tradition from there, dyeing the eggs red. In many cultures throughout history, lambs were considered to bring lucky omens whenever they’re seen.

Nepal is a country renowned for its traditional handicrafts. It’s also where our charming decorations are made, by skilled craftspeople who hand-felt each one from wool. What’s great about these cute collectables is that they’re certified by the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO). This means that the artisans who make them are paid a living wage, which enables them to work in safe conditions, build sustainable livelihoods and earn money to empower their local communities.