Our Story
“I always wanted to have a bookstore, but I got my dream and so much more,” said co-owner Debbie Taylor. She and her daughter, Christi Sheffield, took ownership of The Blue Giraffe in November 2010, fulfilling a lifelong dream of running a business together. As if by fate, Christi and Debbie crossed paths with the former shop owner who felt they were the right buyer for the special place she created.
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.
Following God’s lead and with the support of Larry and Cliff, Debbie and Christi’s husbands, this dynamic mother-daughter team have taken great care to make The Blue Giraffe one of the happiest places on 30A. The union of Christi’s love of art and specialty gifts and Debbie’s passion for the written word has resulted in one delightful shop where customers find themselves happily lost in the sea of treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces.
You can find The Blue Giraffe at Crossings at Inlet Beach, just east of the Rosemary Beach/Hwy 30A & 98 intersection. The Blue Giraffe relocated to Inlet Beach (from WaterColor) in October 2019. It’s easier to get to and has parking to the side and back of the building, woohoo! “You’ll love our upbeat gallery with amazing artists and one-of-a-kind gifts.”
Debbie & Christi
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.
The Philosophy & Jeanie
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.
A big heart is what drives the business philosophy at The Blue Giraffe. Christi and Debbie hope to always make others feel good. “Taking care of the artists and helping clients find the perfect item is always our priority,” shared co-owner Christi Sheffield. “We aim to make everybody feel happy and uplifted when they leave The Blue Giraffe.”
Debbie and Christi are also passionate about giving back to the community, which they now call home. Supporting local charities through financial and art donations is just one of the many ways in which they demonstrate that having a big heart is a great thing.
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.