The humans behind the shop.
Hello!
We are Rachel & Tim. The owners/ and soap maker behind Indigo River & Co, Cedar Rapids’ first Low Waste Refill Shop! Our journey to sustainability is not one of any special flair or excitement. It came from a reality check when moving away from Fort Collins Colorado in 2019. We quickly came to realize how easy it was to choose options that are better for the planet, and how much better it made us feel. Sustainability is about so much more than reducing our waste. It’s about creating community, localizing efforts, consuming consciously, & and creating thoughtful conversations about how our actions effect our planet.
I (Rachel) have been making cold process soap and body care products for more than 8 years. In February of 2022 we found our storefront. Our refill shop grew out of an obvious need for this concept in our community. As a natural soap maker and an avid believer that less is more (in most cases) I knew I was the right person to guide this community into this space! I feel so incredibly thankful and inspired everyday. This community of people has taught me far more than I could have ever imagined, and I am forever grateful.
We strive to create a safe and beautiful space that encourages others to try new things, ask questions, & understand what we are putting in and on our bodies, down our drains & out into the earth. Together we can create beautiful and encouraging social change!
Please don’t hesistate to reach out! We are always excited to chat about sustainability :)
Rachel & Tim
Abby, Claire, & Sloan
Meet Abby:
Hi, I’m Abby! I’ve been a part of the Indigo River team since 2022 and I’m so thankful to have been immersed in the sustainable community that this little shop has created in my hometown. What started as a desire for refillable options in my own home has become a very empowering space for me personally and socially. When I’m not at Indigo River, I am probably reading, writing or at my own business, 237 Collective, a local art gallery and community space here in Cedar Rapids. My favorite products are the natural deodorant, Rachel’s bar soaps and toothpaste tabs!
Meet Claire:
Hello, my name is Claire! I am currently a student at the University of Iowa pursing a degree in Art History and Art Education. My favorite product in the shop is hands down the coffee scrub! I use it almost every time i’m in the shower and it makes my skin feel so smooth.
Meet Sloan: