How did Laurie Moffit go from graphic designer to eco-friendly small business owner? “My daughter!” she says with a laugh. “She was out to save the ocean.” Moffit was inspired to start
Color It Green, a gift shop featuring all green and mostly upcycled items that would keep plastic out of the ocean and support multiple causes including the humane society, local artists, and ocean conservation. A few of the eco-conscious items you could bring home on your next visit:
- Backpacks, wallets and duffels made from old billboards
- Wind chimes made in Maine that sound and look like lighthouses
- Turkish towels handmade in Istanbul (plus a robe made out of them!)
- iPhone docks, bird houses, and sea turtle figures made of driftwood
- Water and food bowls made from wood and scrap Corian for your four-legged friends
- Wooden and cloth toys for children
- Delicate sea-glass jewelry for Mom
- Biodegradable flip flops for Dad
Most the of products are made in the USA and, if they aren’t, they are all fair trade sourced with 1% of sales supporting ocean conservation. Moffitt buys from small, independent businesses whenever possible. “We want to people to think before they buy, shop responsibly,” Laurie says. “We try to offer gifts that keep giving.” Color It Green makes the the entire experience eco-friendly by packing purchases in little bags with colorful, animal-shaped seed packages attached. As Moffit recommends,“put it in your garden, and you might grow a wildflower patch.” [1008 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034,(904) 310-9050.]
reporting and photos by guest blogger Fiona Chace-Donahue