Refilling the Tank: A Caribbean Heritage Journey from Brooklyn to the Virgin Islands

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when you touch the soil that raised you.

In a few days, I’m trading the Brooklyn skyline for the turquoise horizons of St. Thomas. This trip is personal. I’m heading home to honor family and celebrate a legacy that shaped me. My roots run deep through these islands, from Polyberg & Down Street to the family heritage I carry from Tortola.

Running Caribbean Sentiments from NYC means I spend a lot of time translating my memories into stationery. I design cards from my home in Brooklyn, hearing my family’s voices in my head. But there is no substitute for the real thing, hearing the lingo in the market, seeing the bright colors of the flora, and feeling the 'Good Up Energy' of the island in person. I’m going back to gather stories, soak up the sun, and spend much-needed time with family and I can't wait to share some of that magic with you while I'm there.

This past month has been a whirlwind at Caribbean Sentiments. From our Sentiments Bundle sale to the incredible love we’ve been receiving on TikTok, I am constantly reminded of why I started this journey: to archive our culture, our lingo, and our stories in a way that feels like home.

While I’m home, I’ll be sharing sneak peeks of our Mother’s Day collection, filmed right where the inspiration began.

See you Deh Rock!

Cara