Kokeshi Community Ambassador Guideline

A shared standard for representing our community with respect, clarity, and cultural care

Purpose

Our community celebrates Kokeshi artisans, traditions, and the joy of collecting. From time to time, members may interact with artisans, visit workshops, or share photos and stories that include our community "KokeshiVillage" or "KokeshiTrends" name. These guidelines ensure that any mention of the group and journal reflects our shared values and maintains trust with artisans and fellow collectors.

1. Representation & Respect

Ambassadors agree to represent the community in a way that honors:

The artistry and cultural heritage of Kokeshi
The dignity and time of artisans
Accuracy in information shared
A spirit of gratitude, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity

Ambassadors do not speak on behalf of artisans, interpret their intentions, or make claims about their practices.

2. Personal, Not Official, Representation

When mentioning the community in conversations, postcards, social media, or thank‑you materials, ambassadors should clarify:

They are sharing as an individual member, not as an official spokesperson
Their message reflects personal appreciation, not group policy or endorsement

A simple line is enough: “I’m sharing this as a Member or Ambassador of the Kokeshi Village community.”

3. No Commitments on Behalf of the Group

Ambassadors should not:

Negotiate with artisans
Request special treatment, discounts, or favors
Make promises about group activities, partnerships, or future visits
Imply formal collaboration unless previously approved

This protects both artisans and the community from misunderstandings.

4. Transparency & Communication

Before using the community name in materials shared directly with artisans (postcards, gifts, letters, photos), ambassadors should:

Let the admin know
Share the context of how the name will appear
Ensure the tone aligns with the group’s values

This keeps representation consistent and respectful.

5. Positive, Culturally Sensitive Messaging

Any outreach connected to the community should be:

Warm and appreciative
Focused on the craft, the visit, or the relationship
Free of drama, conflict, or internal community issues
Respectful of cultural boundaries and artisan privacy

Ambassadors should avoid sharing artisan photos or workshop images without explicit permission.

6. Gratitude First

Ambassadors are encouraged to:

Express genuine appreciation
Highlight what they learned or enjoyed
Celebrate the artistry without commercial framing
Keep the tone personal, humble, and heartfelt

This reinforces the respectful collector–artisan relationship we value.

7. When in Doubt, Ask

If a situation feels unclear, ambassadors can always check in with the admin for guidance. The goal is not restriction, it’s clarity, kindness, and shared understanding.

Closing Note

These guidelines are not rules but a shared agreement that helps us protect the integrity of our community, honor artisans, and maintain the trust we’ve built together. Thank you for representing our group with care, respect, and the same warmth that defines our community.