Leslie Kelly Shockley with some of her upcycled goods
Leslie Kelly Shockley during her U.S. Peace Corps service in Cantaan, Philippines
Meghan Kelly during her U.S. Peace Corps service in Korotubu, Fiji
Tea With Iris founder Leslie Kelly Shockley creates upcycled goods to promote waste-free living. “Upcycling” transforms unused materials into new products. Shockley, a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (1996-98), recognized the connection between waste management and the environment during her work in the Philippines. She observed how waste management is a daily struggle for rural communities that lack proper landfills. Since their livelihood relies on the health of the environment, the reduction of waste is vital. “I was so impressed on how resourceful the people were in everyday life”, says Shockley.
Shockley’s sister, Meghan Kelly, recently returned from her Peace Corps service (2007-10) in Fiji. She also experienced how community members resourcefully dealt with waste issues.
With their experiences abroad, the two Coachella Valley natives came to realize that many Americans can improve on reducing waste on a daily basis with minimal impact on their lifestyle. Through Tea With Iris, the sisters work together to educate and promote healthy living through gardening, composting, and other simple ways to reduce waste.
Their upcycled products are available in the Riviera boutique in Palm Springs and at Albert & George in Rancho Mirage. Shockley and Kelly will be at the Albert & George grand opening on Friday, December 10. They will also be at the Sacred Heart Christmas Boutique at Rancho Las Palmas Resort on Saturday, December 11 from 9am-2pm. You can also read more about Tea With Iris at www.teawithiris.com
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