Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1198098
Keene saves beautiful dishes from ending up in landfills. 103 like her antique Noritake from the 1920s. Keene's collection comes to her in myriad ways. People contact her with pieces to sell, and she has also been known to scour the Internet seeking specific pieces for a particular event. Recently a bride inquired about building a 1970s-themed wedding and Keene set to work looking for pieces. Other times, people just want their china to go to a good home instead of the curb, and they will give it to Keene outright. In return, she donates a portion of the proceeds from every rental of those pieces to the charity of the donor's choice. It's not just dishes she's saving from the landfill; Keene has put careful thought into her packaging as well, to ensure as little waste as possible. Instead of packing tape, she seals her boxes with reusable cotton rope, and rather than environmentally unfriendly bubble wrap, she puts squares of felt between the dishes to keep them from scratching. Right now, China Grove pieces are available exclusively within driving distance of the North Shore—shipping would be risky from a damage perspective, as well as less environmentally friendly, Keene says. Her five-day rental period enables plenty of time for transport, packing, and unpacking—and for an additional fee, she will deliver and pick up. Ultimately, Keene hopes that her service will encourage people to shrink their environmental footprint while still having a good time. "Encouraging the use of items already in the market helps move us away from disposables and over-buying," she says. "I do love parties because life is short and worth celebrating to the fullest. Every person and every party is unique, but the common denominator is love. Taking the time to thoughtfully choose very special place settings is an extension of that love to your guests." 450 Main St. West Newbury, 978-457-6929