Two Michigan university students have started their own e-commerce Web site selling eco-friendly home décor.
The environmentally conscious business offers their customers quality products as well as an interactive online community.
In the midst of the Michigan recession, a former MSU alumnus and current Oakland University student are determined to become successful entrepreneurs.
Co-owner Danielle Brycz graduated from Michigan State University in 2008 with a degree in International Studies. The other principal, Ryan Forrest, with only a couple of remaining classes at Oakland University, has been pursuing a career in online sales at Brand Labs, a Rochester Hills e-commerce firm.
The couple has been planning the business since last December, when Brycz lost her second job in a matter of months.
"We understood that moving out of state for another job didn't solve anything locally," Brycz said. "So with the help of family, friends, and local businesses, we were able to pursue our new venture."
The goal was to create a business that could be another source of income for the couple as well as a creative outlet.
The development of Verde Lifestyles drew on Brycz's social media, research and networking experience as well as Forrest's e-commerce and online marketing background.
Their continuous participation in local networking events such as Eco-Tuesday, Twitter Tweetups, Motor City Connect, and the Ferndale Chamber of Commerce helped them find resources as well as spread the word on the launch.
After almost a year of planning, www.verdelifestyles.com is officially launched.
The e-commerce Web site sells products such as organic bedding, soy candles, bamboo and jute rugs, recycled artwork, and repurposed lamps.
Two Recent Grads Offer Eco-Friendly Home Gear Online
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Great Lakes IT Report, Oct 4, 2009
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