Happy Cinco de Mayo! With a history steeped in battles and rebuilding, Mexico has earned every right to be loud and  proud. The 5th of May marks a Mexican holiday that more and more people every year celebrate in the United States, making it a day full of guacamole and tequila. While it may all seem like a huge fiesta now, the history of this holiday is covered in bloodshed and remembrance.Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not the celebration of Mexico's independence day. The El Grito de la Indepedencia (Cry of Independence) is held annually on Sept. 16 in honor of Mexico's independence from Spanish rule in 1810.Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of freedom from a different oppressive European empire: France.With all the history aside, Cinco de Mayo is still an exuberant holiday to be shared with friends and family. Mexicans have such a warm, inviting culture, and their people share a special place in my heart, as my parents spent the first three years of marriage living in Mexico City.Mexican art and architecture is so inspiring: the bold colors, patterns, and textures make for eye-popping designs. A lot of my design inspiration comes from Mexican textiles such as the ones below. Enjoy, and Happy Cinco de Mayo! ← All posts