Refresh & Refill: Stylish, Sustainable Gifts
/The effort to blend style and sustainability is a journey. We know that you value the impact of giving beautiful, unique gifts, and, at the same time, you expect eco-friendly qualities. Where does a sustainable effort show up in our gifts and product design? Here’s a look at what environmentally friendly means behind-the-scenes, and the commitment it takes to deliver a stylish and sustainable gift experience.
There are two parts to an environmentally-friendly effort, the material of the gift itself and the packaging and shipping. The gift aspect is a more straightforward part of the process because we work in an artisan industry. Hand-picked wood, hand-woven materials, and artisan-made elements attract makers who want their pieces to be earth-friendly and enjoyed for generations. (We’ve learned a lot of good tips from artists.) Our original gift box fill was replaced with recycled paper years ago, which was an important step. Turns out it was just the tip of the iceberg. These days, we extend our eco-friendly preferences to how other partners and vendors package their goods. We’ve come a long way, and there’s more work to be done.
Eco-friendly should be tastefully designed. While technology and sustainable processes have improved, we still find great products that aren’t paired with attractive, sustainable packaging. This lackluster appearance doesn’t work inside a luxury gift box. Last year, we finally found gift wrapping in colorful recycled options (not just brown). It’s taken time for the industry to catch up to the design piece.
Effective and affordable wrap is essential. Our number one goal, and non-negotiable, remains that gifts arrive in beautiful condition. Corners and cups must be protected as we plan for boxes to be dropped or handled with less care in shipping than we prefer. We’ve improved our wrap and packaging materials and are transitioning to plant-based peanuts. And we finally found sustainable packing tape that sticks and fits our brand’s look and feel.
If you’re wondering if shipping is a real cost, this is your answer. This effort isn’t “free.” Packaging and handling preparation takes time, costs more, and requires quality products.
A reminder that your voice matters. The more you request sustainable, eco-friendly options, the more alternatives, better pricing, and stylish designs will be available to all of us.
