Welcome to the first Team of Many Talents blog, a new series in which we celebrate the impressive array of hobbies and skills among our team members. Perhaps more so than ever, in 2020 we have found ourselves with extra time on our hands as our Relais & Chateaux lodges – Awasi Atacama, Patagonia and Iguazu – have been closed. Suffice to say, our team has not used this time idly!

Celeste Sanabria: artesanal macramé designer (and bartender at Awasi Iguazu)

For those unfamiliar with the term, macramé is the art of making textile accessories using various knotting techniques (as opposed to weaving or knitting). Macramé designs come in many shapes and sizes, from bracelets, earrings and necklaces, through to hairbands, belts and even wall tapestries; as Celeste points out, the possibilities are endless!

“I started making very easy bracelets back in 2015 when a good friend taught me. I had always been interested in the idea of learning to make macramé, so I started watching tutorials online to learn about the different types of knots.”

But, as so often in life, it can be hard to find the time for little hobbies and Celeste took a break for a few years. Until, as with so many of us particularly in the hospitality industry, she found herself with a little more time on her hands.

“But then, when quarantine started back in March, I found myself with a bit more time and decided to pick up macramé once again. This hobby really helps me to unwind as well as improve my concentration. With the pandemic bringing so much uncertainty and change, I find it helps to keep me grounded.”

Setting up an instagram and facebook account to sell her wares locally, Celeste expanded her repertoire and has since mastered a huge range of personal accessories, including bracelets and ankle bracelets, rings, key chains and, a more recent addition, dreamcatcher necklaces.

As her expertise continues to grow, so do her ambitions. “I want to make a hanging plant-pot holder soon, as they are very nice and delicate, but quite complicated. You can even make quilts and curtains! There are endless possibilities when it comes to creating; it’s very entertaining and, as with so many things in life, it’s all about practice. There are thousands of videos on the internet to help learn, but if someone is interested in knowing more, don’t hesitate to contact me!”

Look out for our next post, Jimena the volunteer fire fighter…