Discover ERTH: A Haven of Sustainable Luxury in La Conner, Washington
Tucked away in the charming town of La Conner, Washington, ERTH is more than just a boutique—it’s a destination for sustainable living, meaningful connection, and community inspiration. Founded by Stephanie Banaszak, ERTH opened its doors in early 2023 at 105 S 1st Street, blending eco-conscious products with a commitment to supporting local artisans and businesses. With decades of retail and creative experience, Stephanie brings her vision to life, making ERTH a cornerstone of the Skagit Valley community.
The Inspiration Behind ERTH
The journey to ERTH began with Stephanie’s desire to create a space that celebrated organic and natural products while fostering community engagement. Her vision was clear: to curate a collection of goods that combine luxury with eco-consciousness. After exploring potential locations, Stephanie settled on La Conner, drawn by its charm and steady flow of visitors.
“I’ve always been inspired by abundance in organic, natural, and locally designed products,” Stephanie shares. “La Conner’s charm and history of high foot traffic made it the perfect fit when this space became available.”
ERTH’s offerings are a perfect blend of the basics and luxury. Shoppers can find everything from super soft organic cotton sweatshirts made in the USA to elegant alpaca and cashmere sweaters crafted in Italy. Other standout items include handmade wool comforters from Washington, reusable makeup erasers, and locally crafted goods such as silversmith jewelry, canvas bucket bags, and fine art.
“Every item in ERTH tells a story,” Stephanie explains. “Whether it’s supporting a woman-owned business or featuring goods not available on Amazon, we focus on quality over quantity. It’s about creating a retail experience that’s intentional and impactful.”
A Space for Connection and Creativity
At its heart, ERTH is designed to be more than a retail store—it’s a gathering place where community members can come together, learn, and connect. The boutique’s target audience is drawn to its mix of sustainable luxury and opportunities for meaningful interaction. To foster these connections, ERTH hosts after-hours workshops and events that blend creativity with social engagement.
In November, ERTH held its first community workshop, the Floral Pumpkin Party, where participants created festive holiday decor while mingling with neighbors. “Everyone finished the craft with success and left with new connections,” Stephanie says. December’s event, a Permanent Jewelry Trunk Show, highlights a local jewelry start-up, giving attendees the chance to support a budding entrepreneur.
“Strong community ties are essential,” Stephanie emphasizes. “ERTH is a space where people can foster responsibility, acts of kindness, and creativity. It’s about building a sense of belonging that strengthens our town.”
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Experience
Stephanie’s path to opening ERTH reflects her deep-rooted passion for retail and sustainability. With a career spanning entrepreneurship, marketing, graphic design, and public relations, she brings a wealth of expertise to the venture. Her previous projects, including a boutique and a gallery, laid the groundwork for ERTH’s unique approach.
However, launching ERTH wasn’t without its challenges. “Making the decision to re-enter retail took serious consideration,” Stephanie reflects. Adapting to changes in the retail landscape, crafting a solid business plan, and navigating cash flow projections required both perseverance and strategic support.
“I engaged with the Washington Small Business Development Center for free business advice,” she explains. “Their resources, combined with guidance from local professionals, helped ensure my financial plan was sound and set ERTH up for success.”
Giving Back to La Conner
ERTH’s commitment to community goes beyond offering exceptional products. Since its opening, the boutique has partnered with local organizations to make a positive impact. In collaboration with the La Conner Swinomish Library, ERTH co-created the first annual Junior Art Walk and sponsored the library’s winter Tiny Trees fundraising event. Looking ahead, Stephanie plans to support the La Conner Fire Association’s fundraisers for volunteer firefighters in 2025.
“Community is essential because it provides a sense of belonging, support, and purpose,” Stephanie says. “ERTH is a place where collaboration and kindness can thrive, encouraging everyone to contribute to the greater good.”
A Vision for the Future
As ERTH continues to grow, Stephanie’s goals remain firmly rooted in sustainability and community engagement. In the short term, the boutique is focused on strengthening its foundation, sourcing high-quality products, and enhancing its e-commerce platform at www.LaConnerErth.com.
Long-term ambitions include partnering with fiber artists to create recycled textiles, reducing waste, and expanding into new locations outside Skagit Valley.
“Every purchase at ERTH supports a small business or artist,” Stephanie notes. “It’s about creating a positive ripple effect that benefits the entire community.”
In the next five years, ERTH aims to become a trusted source for locally made, hard-to-find items while fostering a deeper connection with the La Conner community. The boutique’s vision extends beyond retail—it’s about creating a space that embodies sustainability, creativity, and intentionality.
Why Visit ERTH?
ERTH offers a unique shopping experience where every purchase reflects values of sustainability and quality. From the curated selection of eco-conscious products to the inviting atmosphere of the boutique, it’s a place where customers can shop with intention and make a meaningful impact.
“Think of your purchasing power in terms of intentionality,” Stephanie advises. “Every purchase reflects your values and priorities. At ERTH, sustainability matters, and we encourage mindful spending to support local economies and promote environmental responsibility.”
Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift, looking to join a creative workshop, or simply exploring La Conner, ERTH is a must-visit destination. It’s a boutique that proves retail can do more than sell—it can inspire, connect, and make a difference.
Discover ERTH in La Conner or visit them online at www.LaConnerErth.com to experience sustainable luxury and community-focused shopping at its finest.
