Cindy Brown took nylon bags to do her shopping at grocery stores before it became trendy.
She has always been interested in making crafts out of re-purposed materials and for many years she and her husband have been environmentally conscious.
“It is how we have actually always run our day to day lives,” said Brown about herself and husband Roy Timmermans.
The two started up ReThink ReStore in Qualicum Beach in November of last year, offering sustainable products, like a line of compostable food and beverage containers, and many re-purposed items like designer bags and yarn made form recycled blue jeans.
They also offer an alternative to disposable diapers and children’s clothing and accessories, as well as offering classes and workshops.
Brown said she and Timmermans have been involved in business for years, owning their own, and her career involved helping troubled businesses in the Prairies.
When they moved to Qualicum Beach several years ago they knew they wanted to start a business, and not just one that would be a big money-maker, she said.
“We wanted to have a business that we had some passion about and that really is all the little things that we love to do and be part of,” she said.
The lotions sold at the store are made by Brown, and are registered with Health Canada. She said she’s always been into knitting and now sells bamboo and cotton yarns and yarn made from corn and milk.
The best part about the store is the connection to the community, Brown said.
She is pleased they are able to teach people new skills like how to make their own laundry soap and natural lotions, as well as connecting with people consigning items that have been re-purposed.
“You feel more like you are part of the community.”
ReThink ReStore is located at 210a, First Ave. in Qualicum Beach. For more information and to find out about upcoming workshops visit www.rethinkrestore.com or call 250-594-3833.
