Twin Cities Green

Tina and Ryan North operate an eco-friendly store in Uptown Minneapolis, but they haven’t always been greener-than-thou. “When we met, I was throwing my cans in the trash,” chuckles Ryan. It was only several years later, after the two had married and Tina began fashioning sculptures out of old bicycle spokes, that the Norths developed an appreciation for all things reclaimed, reused, and recycled. Frustrated by the lack of organic, sustainable, and fair-trade products available here, they opened Twin Cities Green last year. Thankfully, earth-friendly shopping has come a long way since the days when it meant scratchy hemp and Namaste greetings. The Norths have created a 3,000-square-foot mini department store that’s open and bright, if no-frills. But what it lacks in fanciness, TC Green makes up for in selection: You’ll find affordable and surprisingly attractive home goods, like reclaimed-lumber furniture, plant-based cleaning supplies, and colorful recycled glassware. An extensive baby collection includes maple cribs finished with natural oils, soft-as-silk organic-cotton blankets, and nontoxic wooden toys and games. With gift registries and even an online store, TC Green makes it easy to do right by your planet.