An eco-entrepreneur has opened a new shop in Hadleigh, encouraging people to "start small" on their sustainability journeys.
Toni Kelly, 48, has lived in Suffolk for 20 years and has recently opened an Ecoshop in Hadleigh, The Little Ginger Bee Company.
"It's a real mix of products," said Miss Kelly.
"I've got a food refill room with local oils, herbs, spices and I also offer cleaning, laundry and hygiene products."
She also stocks a range of skincare and "odd gifts", such as bags made from upcycled bouncy castles and paddling pools and plant pots crafted from discarded fishing lines.
The shop officially opened on Saturday, October 29 and has been "really well received" by the local community.
Miss Kelly was "overwhelmed" by the support she received from fellow businesses, including being presented with a flower bouquet from Applewood Acres, a bottle of prosecco from Adnams and a painting donated to decorate her new space.
Having been a vegetarian since childhood, Miss Kelly said she has always loved animals and wildlife.
Over the years, she's mainly worked in sales but said she's always toyed with the idea of creating an eco-friendly shop centred around sustainability.
Miss Kelly originally opened The Little Ginger Bee Company during the pandemic after being furloughed, saying she had "got a bit fed up and needed to make a change".
The name took inspiration from the mason bees who visit her cottage, known for their distinct red/ginger colour.
Miss Kelly put a callout to local makers when stocking the shop, as she believes it's easier to sell the products when you understand the ethics and passion behind the creator.
"It's just easier to talk to the customers when you understand the story," said Miss Kelly.
"I use a lot of the products myself. So much research goes in before I stock anything in my shop."
She's received help from family and friends to set up the shop in its current format and says she will be "responding to local demand" in expanding her product range in the months to come.
"Everybody's different and I don't want trying these alternative products to be an inconvenience for anyone," said Miss Kelly.
"I'd encourage people to start small and just try things."
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