About

Hello! I'm Leila, founder of and curator for Azadi Mercantile, a gallery and shop specializing in authentic Persian, Afghan, 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 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 total bomb!), rugs were what he brought 11,000 miles from Iran to us here in the US.

The truth is I wouldn't be here in the US, happily married with three great kids, if it weren't for a revolution. Maybe needless to say, but those were tough times, and I've tried hard to let go of some aspects of Iran. But now, I'm compelled to go back and explore my heritage through artistic rugs of Iran and the region.

Today, my desire through Azadi is to help sustain this beautiful rug art form while also educating others on caring for and best using them.

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