Light & Lovely embraces fair trade

The concept of fair trade has always been embraced by 15-year-old Abbie Stevens of Findlay — so much so that she decided to take up the managing role of the ethical, fair trade boutique Light & Lovely, located inside of the family-owned Journey Salon & Day Spa. Abbie said Light & Lovely Boutique has made connections with over 35 fair trade organizations, and partners with the nonprofit social enterprise Hope's Landing, of Tiffin. The partnership began after she and her family came across a social media post promoting the products and mission of Hope's Landing. "We love the local focus," Abbie said of the agency, noting that all of its products are made by survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence. In addition, 100% of Hope Landing's profits go toward helping these local survivors. Light & Lovely sells a wide range of products such as candles, jewelry and body products made through Hope's Landing. The boutique also sells food items like tea, coffee and chocolate, ethically sourced clothing and accessories, knit baby rattles, and more. In discussing the most life changing matter she has experienced while overseeing the boutique, Abbie noted "the impact that a single product can have." "I didn't realize that where I bought my bracelet made a difference, and now I'm able to see, you know, with that bracelet, (a) mom is able to put food on the table for her child." Light & Lovely made its debut in November 2020 inside Journey Salon, owned by Abbie's parents, Ben and Mandy Stevens. While it was originally intended to be seasonal, Abbie quickly grew passionate about seeing the impact the boutique had on the community and decided to keep it open year round. She said she is inspired by hearing the stories of every artisan she works with, seeing the products they create, and the impact that their sale has on their lives. "It's just kind of addicting," Abbie said. "Once you start in the fair trade movement, it just becomes a part of you." Abbie works up to 20 hours a week, ordering and pricing products, directing social media, renovating displays and managing the Light & Lovely website. Although she is a sophomore this fall, she is committed to growing Light & Lovely and said she'll create a flexible schedule in order to balance her school and work duties. Looking to the future, Abbie hopes to incorporate even more products and brands into the boutique's ethical lineup of merchandise. She would also like to expand online orders and host educational gatherings and shopping events. Light & Lovely operates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Douglas: 419-427-8505