53°
City officials joined local business leaders, chamber members and eager shoppers at Recologie’s vegetarian and vegan “vistro” last week to welcome the eco-friendly business into the community.
Recologie, which started as a bridal consulting company in Larchmont six years ago, has rapidly expanded since relocating to New Rochelle. The business was founded by Maria Cisneros in 2008 before being transformed by former New Rochelle Council on the Arts Presidents Judith Weber into a gift shop and social space specializing in sustainable, reused and re-purposed materials.
Every product sold at Recologie has a “story,” which Weber - who serves as the company’s COO – says “connects the buyer to the maker in very personal ways.”
“So much of our mission is to raise awareness and provide what is missing in creating a sustainable community. We provide the space for people that can’t find what we have anywhere else,” the development director said. “Recologie is about people, and creating a synergy that creates bonds and friendships. It is also unique that a for-profit business can also be (financially viable) and flourish.”
Since expanding to New Rochelle, Recologie also has served as a gallery featuring artists that use re-purposed and found materials. Additionally, a vegetarian and vegan “vistro” has also opened at the location, offering a local, seasonal, healthy menu.
In addition to the gift shop, vegan café and gallery, Recologie also is willing to open its doors and accommodate parties, workshops or classes for those looking to enjoy a “hipster vibe” without having to go to Brooklyn.
“Recologie is unique in New Rochelle and Westchester because it is a multi-use venue that is created to support community engagement,” Weber said. “Our mission is to bring awareness to the community that what is discarded can become beautiful and have many lives.”
“I think Recologie is a special place. It’s a destination for a myriad of experiences that please the senses while also reminding people of how fragile our planet is. The future for us is to be aware and to be connected. That’s what we’re all about.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice New Rochelle and receive free news updates.
