Half Full Gift Boutique promotes meaningful merchandise and teams with local causes
 Photo: Molly Humphrey At Half Full Gift Boutique on Kent Island, Maryland, every thoughtfully selected offering on display has a backstory and most also carry the mission, and that’s really the shop’s reason for being.
For co-owners Stacie McGinnes and Laurie Mastroberti, Half Full Gift Boutique was built on a shared belief that retail can do more than delight customers. It can make a difference.
“If they leave a little lighter, then we’ve done our job.” — Stacie McGinnes, co-owner
“This was always the dream,” says McGinnes, who opened the boutique in 2018 after spending many years working in retail and having a lifelong entrepreneurial influence from her father. “I wanted it to be uplifting and encouraging, where everything you buy has meaning behind it.”
Retail by purpose “If we’re going to sell something, we try to find products that also help others,” Mastroberti says, noting how the pair intentionally curates products that align with their values.
One line is jewelry from Starfish Project, which supports women escaping human trafficking by providing housing, education and job training. Another is Thistle Farms, which supports women survivors of trafficking, addiction and exploitation. The women create many of the bath and body products, also gaining job skills and a pathway toward long-term independence.
As for product sourcing, Mastroberti says, “We really strive to find that two-fold purpose.”
Rooted in communityBeyond the sales floor, Half Full is committed to living local. The shop donates to organizations and hosts fundraising events, from private shopping nights to give-back days that spotlight area nonprofits.
Partnerships with groups like Tides of Grace, Bosom Buddies and the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center reflect the boutique’s deep local ties and ongoing commitment to giving back.
Twice a year, the shop also hosts celebratory events tied to giving, where a portion of sales benefits a selected nonprofit while introducing customers to new causes and organizations.
But just as meaningful is the atmosphere inside the store. “We want people to walk in and feel cared for,” Mastroberti says.
McGinnes says, “We’ve had people come in just to feel better. If they leave a little lighter, then we’ve done our job.”
Winner: Half Full Gift Boutique
Location: Stevensville, MD Owners: Laurie Mastroberti and Stacie McGinnes
Starfish Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.seasideretailer.com/starfish-award.
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