NorthWest Crossing announced that Sara Bella, a retail company that creates useful products from “trash” is moving into its neighborhood center next month. Sara Bella upcycles (the process of converting waste materials into new materials of higher environmental value) plastic bags and banners into fun, fashionable and functional items such as tote bags, aprons, wallets, belts and more.
“We are very excited to move to NorthWest Crossing, not only are we doubling our retail floor space, but we are looking forward to being in a community that values sustainability,” said Sara Wiener, owner of the company. “The green concept of this neighborhood and its walkability fits in with our own philosophy. We love being near the schools – young people really ‘get’ upcycling and appreciate what we are doing.”
Sara Bella was originally founded in 1991 on the philosophy of utilizing high-quality craftsmanship and top-grade materials to produce exuberant designs that appealed to both kids and adults. After 14 years in the retail business of Sara Bella, Wiener took a break, worked in Africa and renewed her teaching license. In 2010, a new retail business, Sara Bella Upcycled was formed, this time with a greater mission; to teach the methods used to create environmentally friendly goods in the United States as well as abroad.
Not only do Sara Bella’s efforts rescue trash from landfills, but they also keep plastic bags out of oceans and waterways, positively affecting wildlife. All the company’s products are made made from at least 95 percent rescued trash (upcycled plastic bags and banners), with the remaining percentage consisting of thread, metal fittings, zippers and clips. While creating a successful business, the mission of Sara Bella is to educate and teach methods to create environmentally friendly goods in the United States as well as abroad.
David Ford, general manager of NorthWest Crossing said, “Sara Bella is a perfect fit for NorthWest Crossing. With our ongoing mission for sustainable development, both commercial and residential, we are committed to the environment. Sara Bella’s work in upcycling connects with this mission.”
Sara Bella will be located across from portello winecafe at 2748 NW Crossing Drive and will be open in April 2011. www.sarabella.com
