Jan 2, 2009

Five eco-friendly shops in Tampa BayBy Susan ThurstonTampaBay.com

While the Tampa Bay area and Florida, in general, lags behind places like California and Oregon when it comes to availability of recycled products, we’re not completely void of them. Several shops and artists carry items made from recycled goods. Here are a few of them.

If and Only If — This 15-year-old clothing, jewelry and gift store sells a variety of boutiquey recycled items, including thrift-store clothing embellished with beads and embroidery ($20-$80) and flowery ornaments made from aluminum cans ($6). The store also carries Rubbish greeting cards by St. Petersburg artist Natty Moss Bond, made from recycled office supplies and paper. 4336 Fourth Street N, St. Petersburg; (727) 528-9490.

Silver Sage Organic Boutique — After noticing a lack of stores selling eco-friendly gifts, 24-year-old Amanda Brzozowski opened Silver Sage in September. Every home decor item, handbag, hair and skin care products and gift in her store is organic, all-natural or made from recycled materials. Among the selection of recycled goods: oil and vinegar cruets ($17) and bud vases ($8.50) made from old glass; purses, totes and clutch bags made from candy wrappers (prices vary); and sea glass jewelry (prices vary). 2408 S MacDill Ave., Tampa; (813) 374-0398.

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