About

Salaam & hello! I'm Leila, founder of and curator for Azadi Mercantile, a gallery and shop specializing in authentic Persian and Turkish rugs.

Handmade rugs have been a part of my family's home for as long as I can remember, from growing up in Tehran, Iran, to the present, living in central Texas.

My first rugs for my own family were gifts from my dad, who wanted our heritage passed along; gifts we'll forward to our kids, and so on. Other than the pistachios, saffron, and Pashmak (a Persian “cotton candy” that is the absolute best!), rugs were what he brought 7,500 miles from Iran to us here in the U.S.

The truth is I wouldn't be here in the U.S., happily married with three great adult-ish kids, if it weren't for a revolution (“azadi” in the Persian language translates to freedom). Maybe needless to say, but those were tough times, and I had tried hard to let go of some aspects of Iran. But now, I'm compelled to explore more of my heritage and the beautiful culture through artistic rugs of Iran and the region.

Today, my desire through Azadi Mercantile is to help carry on this beautiful art form while also educating others on caring for and utilizing them in your homes.

Thanks for joining me on my journey. I can't wait to take you on yours!