“We’re doing something so much bigger than just selling eco-friendly handbags and accessories. We are really truly creating a way for people to change the way they spend their money and change the lives of other people.”
Hearts.com has taken environmental and social awareness to fashionable new heights. The site was launched by a team of 16 talented people, all passionate about giving back to the world…and looking really good while doing it! We sat down with the President and Creative Director (two sisters) to talk more about the mission behind Hearts.com.
“This whole thing has been evolving so organically. We never said, ‘Okay, here’s a business plan, this is what we want to do.’ It was a passion of many that became a reality,” Michelle Petro-Gerster, President of Hearts.com, told us.
Hearts.com has been built on a love for helping people and the planet since its origin. Stephanie Petro, the Creative Design Director, had started a jewelry line that focused on up-cycling and nature. She sold a bracelet to Hart Cunningham, and he knew he wanted to see more. Cunningham has been the brains behind many flourishing global companies before. Through all his success however, he never forgot his vision of building a better world through sustainable social empowerment (basically helping people help themselves).
Meeting Stephanie was one of those ah-ha! moments. He realized the art of fashion is universal; every culture celebrates this art form in their own unique way. People all over the globe are wearing and creating fashions to represent who they are and where they come from.
Hearts.com takes Cunningham’s vision to new heights. The website supports hundreds of charities and impacts the lives of millions of people. Hearts.com also empowers artisans around the world to generate their own income and share their heritage with the world. “Philanthropy” literally means ‘love of humanity’ and this company is illustrating just that in their core business values.
Hearts.com is also a unique shopping experience on the consumer end. The focus isn’t on the latest trend or fashion-forward must haves (although those are without a doubt present), rather it’s about how spending your money wisely can positively impact the lives of others. The site officially launched on November 12, and we couldn’t be more excited.
“Education is really the forefront of our website, and we educate on every single one of these aspects and why they’re important – why what you wear and what you’re supporting is so important.” Every product listed has an inspiration story, as well as the process used to make the item and what world causes you are supporting through your purchase “It’s a transparency that other companies don’t have,” the sisters told us.
One of our favorite inspiration stories is that of the “Courtney Clutch” – a bag made from handwoven grass by artisans in Indonesia. (P.S. We saw this clutch in the design studio and it is absolutely gorgeous. And once we learned the story behind the bag, we were even more obsessed.)
And yes, we know…normally, when you think about up-cycled, recycled and cruelty free, you think of hippie… without the chic. Hearts.com defies the norm. These products are fashionable while being timeless, extremely high-quality, limited edition pieces without an overly expensive price tag. “We want to be high-fashion. It’s really beautiful to see that it’s possible,” said the sisters.
We saw these bags in person and our jaws dropped. They are unlike anything else we’ve ever seen before. They’re made from up-cycled upholstery and leather, with bullet-casings found in the Arizona desert (seriously, they told us they go out and gather them…How cool!). The best part is they’re limited edition! Because the fabric is up-cycled, there is only so much available. The number of bags made varies, but it tells you the exact number on a recycled metal tag inside.
We loved meeting the fabulous team behind Hearts.com. We just know you’re going die over these hand-bags and accessories so head over to the newly launched website now! Not only will you be getting a gorgeous new piece for your wardrobe, you’ll be changing the lives of people all over the world through your purchase.
Use the promo code SHOPHEARTS10 to get $10 off your purchase when you visit the site – A special gift from our new friends to you! And remember….
“Wear your voice. Wear what you want to say to the world. Be conscious of who you are, what you’re wearing and spread that. Spread change.”
