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May 23, 2020

We’re excited to announce our gallery is now open in Inlet Beach! You can shop in our colorful, happy space Monday 10:00-3:00, Tuesday-Friday 10:00-5:30, and Saturday 10:00-3:00. We will reassess our hours frequently as we navigate these unprecedented times. Our top priority in the shop is the safety of our team and our guests. Stay in the loop about all of our gallery happenings by getting Art in Your In Box. 

Our eStore launch last month was a huge success, thanks to you – our wonderful customers, friends, and family. It helped tremendously while our gallery was closed and we are grateful for your business.

Please enjoy browsing our website and eStore and come back frequently. We add new art, gifts, books, and fun activities every week. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get some daily color, inspiration, and HAPPY in your life.

We pray that you and your family stay well, with all the love that’s in our hearts ~ Christi & Debbie

 

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Welcome to The Blue Giraffe’s online gallery! We hope your visit makes you feel inspired and just plain happy 🙂

shop for art & gifts!
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Summer Art Classes!

As soon as we are able to gather as a community again, we look forward to offering a variety of art classes. Stay tuned, and keep being creative!

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Our Story

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Our Story…

Need a smile or spark of inspiration?  Debbie Taylor and Christi Sheffield, a dynamic mother-daughter duo, offer that and more at The Blue Giraffe. Get to know the women behind this beloved 30A gallery.

Debbie Taylor traded flip charts for flip-flops when she retired from corporate life to Watersound Beach. Serendipity was in the salt air for Debbie when she realized two lifetime goals: owning a bookstore (really it’s a little book nook inside an art gallery) and being in business with Christi. In addition to being her daughter’s biggest believer, Debbie is The Blue Giraffe’s business consultant, financial advisor and marketing fairy. Debbie’s is a charmed life fueled by gratitude and warmth. Her soul mate, Larry, (pssst…they met on a blind date in 1974 and wed shortly after!) and their utterly adorable Ragdoll “kittys”, Maui Girl and Bella Blue, couldn’t agree more. Debbie extends her heart as a volunteer Turtle Walker with South Walton Turtle Watch. She’s a member of Seagrove Garden Club, two local book clubs and enjoys photography, yoga, golf and travel.
Christi Sheffield always dreamed of being in the arts and in business with her mother. It was after a career in accounting that her wishes were granted. Another came true when she met her soul mate, Cliff, on (are you sitting?) her parents’ wedding anniversary. Christi shares her love and light by helping others realize their artistic potential, as evidenced by the original pieces that beam from The Blue Giraffe’s walls. She’s the face of the gallery, and her infectious smile and laugh keep customers returning year after year. A lover of food, wine and craft cocktails, Christi smiles even wider when toasting friends and family. Christi’s “happy” includes yoga, beach days, reading, traveling, cooking and confirming that yes, she is her mom’s boss.
In September 2010 Christi got an unexpected call from Michele Myers, The Blue Giraffe’s creator. Some might say it was all a coincidence; we call it a God wink. Michele said God led her to ask them to buy her “fun and funky” shop on 30A. Less than 60 days later they were all gathered holding hands in the gallery. Michele said a prayer and handed over the keys. As she walked out the door Debbie and Christi looked at each other in amazement…and the magic began.
The support of loving husbands made it all possible. Celebrating their new journey with a toast on the beach is (left to right) Cliff, Christi, Debbie, and Larry; circa 2010.

Their customers say The Blue Giraffe is one of the happiest places on 30A.

“I feel so good when I’m in your shop.” Allison K., Dallas TX

“We always visit the Blue Giraffe when we come to town.” Jeff M., Atlanta GA

“This is my favorite place to shop on 30A.” Kristin O., Piedmont CA

They’ve created a beautiful, colorful space with you in mind. You’ll feel uplifted as you discover inspirational gifts and art displayed from floor to ceiling. They’re honored to represent many local and regional award-winning artists who partner exclusively with them to showcase and sell their special creations.

The Blue Giraffe makes beach time extra fun with a whole spectrum of art classes. Whether you’re a kid or kid at heart, your creativity can shine in our happy space. Vacationers with little ones return annually to make fun memories and upcycled art on our front lawn. Adults and kids learn how to paint, write and create glass art in the gallery’s creative space. Come “paint outside the lines” with us.

Their story is not complete without introducing you to Jeanie, the gallery’s original blue giraffe. She stands tall and proud outside our front door to welcome you. Named in honor of Debbie’s mother and Christi’s beloved Grandma, Jeanie is very photogenic. She loves being in selfies and the center of attention in a group portrait (she’s never been shy about those legs!). She’ll be your friend forever when you let us add your snap to her gallery. Did you know a giraffe’s heart is two feet long and weighs 25 pounds? Everyone on the Giraffe Team imagines their hearts to be that big. They use their heart power to spread happiness on 30A and beyond supporting organizations that help people and animals in need of love.

THE BLUE GIRAFFE BELIEVES…

In the goodness of people
Hugs and smiles are the best medicine
A good book opens up entire worlds to those who read
Family means everything
Kindness and respect should be given to all beings-furry ones, too
Being creative is good for the soul
In looking at the sunny side of things
Friendships are a true blessing
Voltaire nailed it when he said, “Writing is the painting of the voice.”
It is good to color outside the lines
Listening is more important than talking
The beach imparts peace and joy
God can be seen in Nature
Love can heal all things.

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30A Hot Spot!

Next time you’re on the Emerald Coast, stop in and see why we were voted a “30A Hot Spot for Art and Gifts” and “Perfect in South Walton”. You’ll be welcomed with love and happy hearts! Until then, we hope you’ll enjoy frequent visits to our website.