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You’ve considered bidding a billion bucks on Anya Hindmarch’s “I’m not a plastic bag” bag on eBay, you thought about dishing a twenty for a downtown knock-off, and then reconsidered since it was plastic, then re-reconsidered smiling at the irony of carrying a plastic bag declaring it was not a plastic bag, and then—

You discovered Lisa Leija and her reusable bags stamped with “GetHipGetGreen” on ThisNext and decided you’d do just that with her designs.

And we decided to play Q&A with the not-a-plastic-bag designer. 

TN: What do you think about all the hype surrounding the “I’m not a plastic bag” bag by Anya Hindmarch?
LL: I just hope people are getting the message and it helps raise environmental awareness.
 
TN: What do you think about all the press coverage of all things green, and so many large companies jumping on board?
LL:  I think it’s fantastic! I think people are starting to get it and that each and everyone of us can help make a difference.
 
TN: Why and when did you start designing green?
LL: My wonderful husband started filming a environmental documentary called Paper or Plastic?. After months of research I realized I must and can do something for our environment.
 
TN: Tell me more about your other green projects, and how they influence the design of your bags.
LL:  One of the other green projects I am involved is Paper or Plastic? The Documentary. I am one of the producers and I am really enjoying the project! I have learned so much it has helped me get really creative and design two reusable bags with great messages so people will take notice and help make a difference as well. This has really made a huge difference in the way that I think and the choices I make and that makes me feel really great! Coming soon… A few clothing pieces with a message.
 
TN: Any sneak previews you can share with ThisNext readers?
LL: Check out www.paperorplasticthedocumentary.com.
 
TN: Biggest response a product of yours has received from consumers?
LL: “WOW, these bags are amazing!” They can take them everywhere not just to the grocery store but to there favorite boutiques, the beach, the gym etc…. They love the design and the great message!And they love that a part of the sale is being donated to a kids environmental group, The Green Ambassadors!
 
TN: The product that’s had the biggest influence on your design?
LL: Paper and plastic bags—trying to eliminate them both! Replacing them with two bags that have a great message “GetHipGetGreen” and “LoveThisPlanet.”
 

TN: If you were a product, you’d be a ___________.
LL: 100% sustainable product with a past, present and future!
 
TN: Your favorite product discovery in the last six months… Or something that inspired you?
LL: My reusable bags and The Green Ambassadors have really inspired me!
 
TN: Most prized possession?
LL: My honey!
 
TN: A product love secret you’re too embarrassed to share?
LL: I don’t have any secrets. I share everything.
 
TN: Name an item under your bed?
LL: This really boring carpet.
 
TN: Something in your closet that is not apparel, shoes, bags, etc.?
LL: Lavendar sachets.
 
TN: Fav trend for summer?
LL: ‘60s-inspired dresses.
 
TN: Least fav trend for summer?
LL: At the gym constantly so I can fit into my “Hippie Love” bikini by Lyla Blu (that’s my other line).
 
TN: Can’t leave home without my…?
LL: Tano handbag, SIGGS water bottle, and GetHipGetGreen reusable bags.

 

TN: City or suburbs?
LL: Suburbs.
 
TN: Loft or the perfect house with the white picket fence?
LL: My perfect house.
 
TN: Flip-flops or sneakers?
LL:  Flip-flops!
 
TN: Coffee or tea?
LL: Mango green tea my absolute favorite drink!