Earthshine Co.

If you’re coming to Erie for a day of shopping, take a break from the familiar mall brands and discover something you won’t find in every store. Just a short drive from Erie, Earthshine Co. in Edinboro is an independent shop filled with distinctive bohemian clothing, jewelry, gifts and more. Established in 1990 and owned by Shannon Hokaj since 1996, Earthshine has been a part of the Edinboro community for decades, offering shoppers an eclectic alternative to the big-box retail experience.

Earthshine is the kind of store where you can come looking for one thing and leave with something you never expected to find. Browse unique fair trade clothing, t-shirts and more for every occasion for women, men and children; explore jewelry for every style and budget; or pick up incense, music boxes and one-of-a-kind gifts. The store emphasizes environmental and social responsibility, offering ethically produced goods, organic fabrics and thoughtfully selected items, including a growing selection of products made in the USA that are both durable and fashionable. Whether you’re looking for something special to wear, a gift that doesn’t feel mass-produced or simply enjoy discovering something different, it’s worth the trip to Earthshine. You never quite know what you’ll find — from a dress perfect for an upcoming wedding to a T-shirt your Dad will just love — and that’s part of the fun.

The store takes its name from the natural phenomenon that occurs when sunlight reflects off Earth and illuminates the moon. Its roots go back to the Grateful Dead’s traveling “Shakedown Street” vending scene, where the original owners sold merchandise before eventually settling in Edinboro. More than 35 years later, that independent, creative spirit remains part of the experience.

Located at 118 Meadville Street in downtown Edinboro, Earthshine is open seven days a week, making it easy to add a stop to your Erie-area shopping trip. Visit Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m,. or Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Storewide sales happen annually in September and February. With plenty on its racks, Earthshine is an easy detour for shoppers looking to venture beyond the mall.

Earthshine offers a chance to shop small, support a longtime local business and find something with a little more personality. The store’s community board is a great way to discover local events, arts, culture and other fun stuff, and Hokaj is one of the town’s biggest cheerleaders. “I love Edinboro because it's a small community,” she said. “You can know the council members and the farmer that grows your food and raises your meat and eggs. The surrounding area is also great for nature enthusiasts of every kind — the people here really care about their community because it IS their home.”