This article is a reprint of a Jan. Marco Review article. Thank you Debbie!

The Blue Mangrove Gallery began as a seed in the back of the owner , Christie Marcoplos' mind many years ago. Although she owned a Florist/Gift Shop with a Plant Design and Maintenance Service in New Hampshire for quite some time she yearned for a tropical setting supporting creative artists .When the time was right and her son headed west for college she sold her business, packed up her car and drove as far south as possible . Short of pulling a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang she stopped on Marco Island in Florida.

For five years playing in the sun, exploring the Everglades, swimming with the dolphins, being stung by a sting ray along with several interesting jobs kept Christie occupied.However, the entrepreneurial spirit kept resurfacing.

It was in the summer of 2006 that Christie decided it was time to fulfill that itching sense of uncertainty and open a Fine Hand Crafted Art Gallery , "With an Affection for Paradise", of course. Having the support of new found southern artists as well as previous contacts,acquaintences and friends nationally, The Blue Mangrove Gallery became a reality.

The Gallery doors opened December 1,2006 with a special party held the evening of December 6 .Featured artists such as Clyde Butcher, Jeff Ripple, Natalie Salminen,Christine Noonan,Beth Schroeder, Nancy Hannigan , Lena Turmeulon,Judy Wittwer and Tara O'Neill were among the many well wishers to attend.In the spirit of renewable resources and treasuring a favorite hand crafted gift,The Blue Mangrove Gallery was born to fuel the senses.

An eclectic mix of handblown glass, ceramic, metal and wood, jewelry, art, photography and so much more is part of the ever changing selection of fine hand crafted work.Knowing each piece was made by hand with thought, care and positive creative energy can only help this crazy, intensely over stimulated, fast growing world stabilize to hold onto lasting goodness.