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Hello friends, lovers, and accomplices:
I am excited to write today because I have been inspired by our trip to the San Francisco Green Festival along with the random editorial/article writing opportunities I have been presented with lately. I was already in the mood to write more, and now seeing your faces and talking to y’all in person has got me really hyped up. I love that so many of you totally understand our perspective and are digging the great Guffly stuff we scout out. I also really enjoyed meeting new friends with great potential Guffs. Power to the producers, I support your endeavors! Your awesome ideas are why we got started in the first place.
So, what’s up in our world? We’re getting prepared for a few more shows, where we’ll set up a similar experience to that we had at Green Fest – lots of Guffs to touch and feel and our happy Guffly family to answer your questions and help you score the perfect gifts. More details to come rearding dates and locations so that you can come visit us if you are near they places we’ll play.
We’re also spending some serious time meeting new supplier friends and figuring out more ways to help one another. We’ll be out scouting new Gufflings (this might be my favorite use for our word) this weekend at the Detroit Urban Craft Fair. Intrigued? I knew you would be. Here’s the info from DUCF’s website: “The Detroit Urban Craft Fair is an annual event showcasing the work of 50+ independent artists and alternative crafters in one of the Midwest’s most industrial cities. As Michigan’s largest and most visible indie craft fair, DUCF serves as an entry point for the state’s alternative craft scene. The 2009 DUCF is November 21 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at The Majestic Theatre, located at 4120-4140 Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit.” I know, right up our alley! I’m crossing my fingers for eco friendly awesomeness, and I’m feeling lucky.
If you know of good people with cool product creations (ones with a heart of course – be it eco or fair) please send them our way. Likewise, tell us if there is something you want to see on Guffly. Have you been searching for a certain product and would prefer it to be eco friendly? Do you dream up ways to improve products by giving them a makeover of the green variety? Do you have a problem (like a need for serious winter boots because you refuse to have cold, wet feet again this winter…just as an example) and want to find the most functional, stylish, eco friendly way to solve it? Tell us and we will dig.
That’s all for now friends, but we’ll be posting a lot more updates about our lovechild in a series we’ll call… “Guffly in Real Life” (just thought of that…not bad for on the fly ey?) We’ll keep you better informed about our little world here in the heart of Detroit.
Lots of Guffly Love,
Chanell
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Well it’s safe to say that the 8th Annual Green Festival in San Francisco was a hit for Guffly! We came, we exhibited, we connected, and we had a blast. This was the first big event for the Guffly team and we think we held our own and established a unique presence at the huge festival.
Since Guffly is an online store, we don’t get to see the smiling faces of our lovely customers and being able to see the excitement and smiles that our products created was awesome. It seems that the Guffly perspective – living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to compromise your sense of style – is one that resonates with TONS of you! Thanks – we’re glad you like it!
Some customer favorites included:
Reusable Stainless Steel Razor Kit – men and women alike were thrilled to find an eco-friendly alternative to the disposable razor craziness! The flashy design sure makes it fun too.
Medium Seat Belt Tote – of course, we could have guessed this one based on the feedback we’ve already been getting. People are beyond impressed with the quality of craftsmanship and the functionality of this purse.
Fair Trade Shoes – we knew this but, we heard you all loud and clear: Stylish eco-friendly shoes are incredibly difficult to find! Guys and gals loved the design and humor in these shoes. We definitely are going to be scouting for more options…stay tuned!
Recycled Game Tile Tree Pendant – another online customer favorite held its own in person. These too cute pendants have eye catching designs that drew people in, then we told them to flip it over and they were surprised to find that it was a Scrabble tile!
We got a lot of “Thank Yous!” from people that were there searching for ways to be eco-friendly that felt comfortably in reach to them. There were also people living impressive green lifestyles that really enjoyed what we brought to the table. We think it’s safe to say that regardless of your “green-ness” or age there is something at Guffly for you. Plus with the availability of gift certificates (that’s right, we’re cool like that) and always $2 shipping it’s hard to beat Guffly for your eco-stylish shopping needs.
We also held a drawing ever other hour for one of our cool, eco-stylish products – the response was overwhelming. Winners are in the process of being notified and we appreciate everyone that stopped by to enter.
Something that we always want you folks to remember is we accept product suggestions anytime – just contact us. We also want to know if you are looking for a particular eco-friendly product and can’t find it…we’ll do the searching and work our hardest to find the best products for you.
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Have you heard of Green Festival? It’s a joint project of Global Exchange and Green America…and we’re going to be exhibiting at the upcoming San Francisco festival, November 13-15, 2009.
This is the world’s largest sustainability event that features the best of what’s green. According to Green Festivals you can, “enjoy more than 125 renowned authors, leaders and educators; great how-to workshops; cutting-edge films; fun activities for kids; organic beer and wine; delicious vegetarian cuisine and diverse live music. Shop in our unique marketplace of more than 350 eco-friendly businesses—everything from all-natural body care products and organic cotton clothing to Fair Trade gifts and beautiful kitchen tiles made from renewable resources.”
We’re mostly just excited to get out and meet our customers in person as well as establish new relationships with top-notch eco friendly suppliers. It’s going to be very exciting to be in San Francisco as a part of this great event! Come and visit us in Booth #129 in the Fair Trade section next to the Organic Foods Dining Area and just around the corner from the restrooms (you know you’re going to have to go eventually, might as well swing by and say hi). Our booth is going to be the Guffly website come to life! You’re going to be able to check out our products, play around, listen to some tunes, win some prizes, and purchase those must-have Guffs.
We have some FREE tickets to the Green Festival available to some lucky folks! All you need to do is leave a comment here with a link to your favorite Top Guff and why you love it. Piece of cake, right? You give us awesome feedback we give you free tickets to the Green Festival! Stay tuned to Twitter, Facebook, and right here on our blog for updates on what the Guffly team is up to in San Francisco…
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These handmade Organic Natural Soap Sets are made by Earth Natural Essentials a company this is nearby Guffly! The company was founded by Crystal in Troy, Michigan and we’re very excited to be offering a local-to-Guffly supplier for today’s Daily Guff!
Earth Natural Essentials products are made from top quality local ingredients and packaging. We like that the products are hand crafted in small batches. These natural organic soaps are also vegan and of course eco-friendly!
As an added bonus, the company is donating 10% of all November sales to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit that serves hot meals, provides food and clothing for families in need, maintains a 25,000 square foot urban farm, and so much more. Certainly a worthy cause in our book!
Get your Organic Natural Soap Set (you get to pick the size and scents) on the Daily Guff: http://guffly.com/
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We love the fun name of Wabisabi Green as much as we love the products! Obviously since we’re carrying another one of their products on the Daily Guff! This time it’s the Organic Throw Pillow Covers made of organic cotton and handprinted with eco-friendly water based inks. A big shout out to founder Jolee Pink for designing these beautiful products!
Jolee’s passion to fuse her artistic expression with home accessories designed to promote greener living led to the development of her collections. Her designs are inspired by nature and the southern California coastal lifestyle. We love it!
Can’t you just imagine the comfort of snuggling up to this super soft pillow on your sofa or bed? We’re hiding the samples she sent from the Guffly team otherwise we think we’d never get them back! Get yours on the Daily Guff: http://guffly.com/
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Funky Natural Clutch
Today’s Daily Guff is the Funky Natural Clutch comes straight from the angels of eco-stylish heaven. It’s perfect for an evening jaunt about downtown or an afternoon brunch. Don’t let the word “clutch” fool you, though. This is no change purse. We successfully fit all the essentials in this darling bag with room to spare. Not only adorable, this bag is as eco-friendly as they come. It is made of Buntal, which is harvested from the stalk of the Buri Palm. This plant grows naturally in the Philippines where these bags are handcrafted by fairly paid women artisans. The strong magnetic closure is great to make sure your things stay where they’re supposed to. We love the Funky Natural Clutch because it maintains a global look while being eco friendly and stylish. Take that, mass production.
Guffly is offering this fantastic natural clutch at 30% off to everyone as a birthday gift from Guffly to our loyal supporters. The icing on the cake is this ships for just $2. You know you’re going to want this as part of your Fall wardrobe!
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The last article posted discussed green jobs and how to land one. It listed four interesting green employers and what makes them a green company. To go along with this theme, here is a list of five eco-friendly entrepreneurs that are doing big things. We love them because they are eco-friendly and because they are devoted to making their dreams come true. Check out these 5 eco-friendly entrepreneurs and why you need to know them.
1) Blake Mycoskie: Blake is a 32 year-old entrepreneur with a big heart. He is the founder and Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS Shoes, Inc. Why does this California native have such a big heart? After traveling to Argentina in 2006 to learn how to play polo, he befriended many children there that were living each day without shoes on their feet. Blake knew he had to do something since walking is the main form of transportation in Argentina. After making his first couple thousand pairs of shoes he decided that for every pair purchased, TOMS would give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. This is what he termed the One for One. Since the beginnings of TOMS, an estimated 140,000 shoes have been given to children. For more TOMS info and to take a look at their stuff visit the website at, http://www.tomsshoes.com/
2) Chanell Scott: If you haven’t heard of this young eco-friendly entrepreneur you soon will. This 25 year-old eco-friendly fashionista hailing from Detroit, MI has launched her own eco-friendly online retail store, Guffly. Her slogan, “If eco-friendly and style made a lovechild they’d call it, ‘Guffly’” and if that doesn’t catch your attention then her products will. Selling one product a day her and her team feature eco-friendly and stylish products. Check out Guffly at, http://guffly.com/
3) Stephanie Bernstein: Bernstein is the owner of To-Go Ware. This company is focused on providing consumers with durable and reusable products for storing food and beverages. To-Go Ware answers life’s questions to being eco-friendly and being on-the-go. Tired of seeing how much plastic silverware was being thrown away, Bernstein has committed her time to making an eco-friendly alternative for earth friendly consumers. Being eco-friendly and convenient is what Bernstein is all about. Check her stuff out at, http://www.to-goware.com/
4) Jordan Contreras: Partnering with Chanell at Guffly.com, Contreras is also an eco-friendly consumer at heart and a green entrepreneur you need to know. After having difficulty finding men’s wear that is both eco-friendly and stylish, Contreras decided to do something about it. With Guffly he has been committed to finding eco stylish clothing for men and women and finding eco-friendly pet products and home décor. Not only can you check out their website at, http://guffly.com, their blog is also available at http://blog.guffly.com
5) Charisse McAuliffe: Founded in2006, McAuliffe has been dedicated to connecting people to eco-friendly resources. It originally was started as a Colorado-based non-profit but has since turned into a national network. Their goal is to be the most comprehensive and diverse resource available for people looking to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Their community is built on sharing ideas, educating one another and getting more involved in sustainability. If you want to be a part of this community be sure to check out her network at, http://www.gengreenlife.com/
Guffly is a one product per day online store and community featuring eco friendly products and fair trade lifestyle goods like home, pet, clothing, office and personal accessories. We know that people aren’t interested in ugly stuff, so you can bet Guffly’s green products are stylish, fun and attractive – eco stylish if you will. Shop the Daily Guff at http://www.guffly.com
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On the hunt for a green job...
The recent buzz around town is about green jobs and finding green jobs. But what exactly is a green job? A green job is a job that provides a product or service that in turn allows consumers to consume less or produce more because of the utilization of the product or service provided. There are also green jobs that strive to be socially responsible and improve the environment. The Green Job Act of 2007 is a pilot program that is set to identify needed skills, develop training programs, and train workers for jobs in many different fields. Green jobs are said to build a strong middle class and provide people with new skills to help minimize damage to our environment. Green jobs are also said to reduce unemployment and poverty. Here is a list of 4 interesting green employers and why you should work for them.
1) Greenpeace: Greenpeace is an organization founded in 1971 that peacefully exposes global environmental problems and thinks of creative ways to promote solutions to sustain our environment. They work in protecting the oceans and forests and fight to limit global warming and the spread of harmful toxins. In 2008 Greenpeace teamed up with Ben & Jerry’s to bring climate-friendly freezers to the US, this being one of their many accomplishments over the past 30 plus years. Greenpeace has offices worldwide. There are two offices located in the United States, one in Washington D.C. and the other in San Francisco, CA. Check out their website to learn more about this green company. http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/
2) EcoVentures International: This non-profit organization supports the development of sustainable communities and livelihoods. Through this organization they work with community members to become socially and environmentally committed practitioners and entrepreneurs of sustainable development. They are based in Washington D.C. and have many volunteer and internship opportunities for those that are committed to seeing a more sustainable environment. Here is the website to learn more about these opportunities. http://www.eco-ventures.org/
3) Green Roundtable: This independent non-profit’s mission is to mainstream green building and sustainable design. They promote and support healthy and environmentally sound building projects through outreach, education, policy advocacy and technical assistance. Since their launch in 1998 they have been working with building owners, engineers, community organizers along with other influential people to meet the needs of the community. You can learn more about this Boston, MA based non-profit at, http://www.greenroundtable.org/
4) Global Green USA: This non-profit was founded in 1994 and has been committed to addressing the global climate change and they have been primarily focused on creating green buildings and cities. Not only do they focus on addressing the problems of global climate change but they also offer green tips that make living an eco-friendly lifestyle easier. Check out what they have to offer eco-friendly minded people at, http://www.globalgreen.org/
Guffly is a one product per day online store and community featuring eco friendly products and fair trade lifestyle goods like home, pet, clothing, office and personal accessories. We know that people aren’t interested in ugly stuff, so you can bet Guffly’s green products are stylish, fun and attractive – eco stylish if you will. Shop the Daily Guff at http://www.guffly.com
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Being eco-friendly isn’t just for the modern day hippie anymore. There are many celebrities that have recognized the importance of being eco-friendly and are now spreading the word to the rest of the world. Here is a list of eco-friendly celebrities and why we love them.
1) Leonardo DiCaprio: If eco-friendly had a name and a face it would go by the name Leonardo DiCaprio. The 34 year old actor exudes what it means to be eco-friendly. He drives a hybrid car and has recently purchased and eco-friendly condo in New York City. What makes this home eco-friendly? The condo has a 24-hour fresh filtered air system, a water treatment facility and rotating solar panels. DiCaprio recognizes the environmental challenge we face because of global warming and has since committed to the environment. He also started the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998 which supports environmental causes.
2) Adrian Grenier: This American actor, director, writer, and musician, best known for his role on Entourage, is the host of an eco-friendly series. On Planet Green Adrian Grenier will be hosting AlterEco, a show devoted to the eco-friendly lifestyle. He is backed by a team of green activist, experts and some close friends. The show will document him and his team renovating a 1920’s Spanish home in Los Feliz. The renovated home will be both green and sustainable. Be sure to check this show out to gather some eco-friendly renovating tips!
3) Natalie Portman: If you aren’t a Natalie Portman fan now, you will be soon! This 28 year old Israeli American actress has started her own eco-friendly fashion line. Portman has created a line of vegan shoes. These stylish and sexy shoes are made from alternative materials like faux leathers. Portman and her team of designers didn’t harm any animals in their construction. This eco-friendly vegan is not only environmentally conscious but also socially. She has been praised for her efforts in saving gorillas in Rwanda. Portman has raised the bar when it comes to being an eco-friendly and socially conscious celebrity.
4) Julia Roberts: This “Pretty Women” star has turned into an eco-friendly all-star. She and her husband drive an eco-friendly car, a Prius. She is also looking to build an entirely eco-friendly home in Malibu. Her inspiration to be more eco-friendly came from her children. That has inspired her to purchase more eco-friendly diapers for her young ones. She uses chlorine-free, non-toxic diapers for two of her children and a plastic-free, flushable diaper for another. The flushable diaper is a unique hybrid between cloth and disposables.
5) Cameron Diaz: If you haven’t read her book by now, you certainly should. She has recently published an eco-friendly how-to book called “Green Book.” The book, as I’m sure you have guessed by now, offers ways to make your everyday life greener. From beauty products to household supplies, the Green Book offers 700 ways to make your life as eco-friendly as possible. Not only does she offer her own suggestions but she also features tips from Ellen DeGeneres, Will Ferrell, Martha Stewart and even Justin Timberlake. Check out this book and pick up some great tips!
Guffly is a one product per day online store and community featuring eco friendly products and fair trade lifestyle goods like home, pet, clothing, office and personal accessories. We know that people aren’t interested in ugly stuff, so you can bet Guffly’s green products are stylish, fun and attractive – eco stylish if you will. Shop the Daily Guff at http://www.guffly.com
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Organic cotton hoodie for earth friendly plus size women
Yesterday’s article discussed the lack of attractive eco-friendly fashion for plus size women. There aren’t many options out there for my full figured ladies and it has really been getting under my skin. So, this week’s Voice Your Vote I knew I had to find something that would satisfy the eco-friendly plus size fashionista. This organic cotton hoodie come in sizes ranging from S to XXL and comes in either pumice (pictured above) or graphite. It is also made from bamboo which makes it absorbent, hypoallergenic and of course very comfy. I think this hoodie is super cute and will definitely satisfy everyone’s’ flair for fashion.
Tell us what you think (1-5)
1= not interested at all and I am personally offended that you even suggested it
2= interesting…but not sold
3= I’m intrigued, I would consider making this item a part of my eco-friendly collection
4= How eco-chic of you!
5= WOW! If I don’t have this item in my life immediately I might seriously throw a fit
Would you purchase an eco-friendly hoodie like this one?
Would you like to see eco-friendly clothing that comes in plus sizes?
