Copycat Creation

In today's marketplace, we have grown accustomed to hearing about knock-off designer handbags and pirated computer software.  But a village?  Seriously?  Yes, it is true.  For years, some Chinese tourists have been taking measurements along with photographs of one of their favorite villages, Hallstatt, Austria.  According to dailymotion.com's video on youtube, plans are underway to recreate the village in China. 

The idea to replicate an entire village from another country is outlandish enough to generate worldwide press and interest.  I wonder if we, the world audience, are disturbed by this story.  While Hallstatt business owners served the Chinese tourists for years, their businesses and historical landmarks were being measured and painstakingly detailed for future use elsewhere.  In years to come, Hallstatt hospitality will have been rewarded with a decline in tourist revenue from their former Chinese tourists.

Some will say that this is an example of business as usual.  Indeed, it is a business-beware scenario, where one had better get everything patented and registered, or someone will steal his or her idea and run to the bank.  Well, it used to be idea; now it appears Austrian villages are up for grabs, too. 

At Georgia Vivienne Creations, I strive to offer home decor products from microbusinesses and mompreneurs who work hard to provide for their families and grow their businesses.  I strive to offer primarily products that are made in America, although I do have a few products that are made overseas by American entrepreneurs out of necessity for offering a competitive price.  I also sell fair-trade products from overseas which help create jobs in these communities.  I am excited about the products I currently offer and look forward to buying from even more microbusinesses and mompreneurs in the years to come.  Come check GVC out and see some of the handmade products at http://www.georgiaviv.com.