Andrea Ridout

Senior Lifestyles Reporter

After three decades in the hardware industry and radio/TV, Andrea Ridout of Garland has become a nationally-known expert on products and processes for green home improvement. She has owned and sold three award-winning companies and has a wide breadth of knowledge from decorative hardware to gardening, eco-friendly topics to animal husbandry.

She is currently working on a new book about backyard chickens for Texas A&M Press. You can reach her at Andrea@AskAndrea.com.

By Andrea Ridout

May 04 2024, ANDREA RIDOUT

Celebrate Mom's Day with green style

Celebrate Mother’s Day with eco-friendly experiences like Goat Yoga in Las Colinas, shopping at Dallas Farmers Market, and unique gifts from Global Mamas. Enjoy Fort Worth's Japanese Gardens or Water Gardens for a peaceful outing. Consider a Davis St. Mercantile candle workshop or a Mill composter for a sustainable gift.

Feb 07 2024, ANDREA RIDOUT

These Valentine's Day gifts show love for the planet

Explore planet-friendly Valentine's Day gifts, perfect for expressing love while respecting the Earth. From S3niorman's vegan backpacks to Christy Robinson's sustainable jewelry, these options include refillable pens, premium chocolates, compostable coffee, vintage jewelry art, and Valentine-themed treats, all crafted with recycled materials or eco-awareness in mind.

Dec 20 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

2023 Last Minute Green Gift Guide

The 2023 Last Minute Green Gift Guide offers a variety of eco-friendly, locally sourced gifts perfect for the holiday season. Highlights include Crazy Water experiences, Half Price Books finds, unique coffee and pastries, Texas craft beers, quality tools, and vegan treats—all easily accessible from local businesses.

Dec 14 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

2023 Green Gift Guide for Pets

The 2023 Green Gift Guide for Pets recommends eco-friendly gifts that prioritize sustainability and pet well-being. Suggestions include natural treats, durable toys, stylish beds, and innovative pet care products—all aimed at reducing environmental impact while delighting your furry companions.

Dec 08 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

2023 Green Gift Guide for Kids

The 2023 Green Gift Guide for Kids highlights eco-friendly gift ideas, including a Made in Texas onesie, bird workshops, gardening kits, and STEM toys. The guide features unique offerings like Lump of Coal products, dragon playsets, and recycled material toys, promoting sustainability and creativity for young eco-conscious gift recipients.

Dec 01 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Here's our 2023 Green Gift Guide

The 2023 Green Gift Guide features eco-friendly gifts such as Farmer’s Defense sleeves, reMarkable 2 tablets, organic fruit baskets from Harry and David, and Lomi composters. It highlights sustainable products like Confetti Snacks, Crystal deodorant, and Susan’s Own CBD products, promoting gifts that align with environmental and health-conscious living.

Nov 08 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Local plant experts put down roots at rural garden center

Rooted In, a nursery in Pilot Point founded by sustainability experts Daniel Cunningham and Clint Wolfe, offers heat, drought, and cold-tolerant plants. With 40 years of experience, they prioritize eco-friendly gardening and hold workshops. Their specialties include native grasses and water-wise plants, fostering community and sutainable landscaping.

Sep 21 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Serve up eco-friendly fun at fall festivities

The text provides eco-friendly ideas for fall gatherings, emphasizing the use of paperless invitations, sustainable decorations, and reusable or compostable dinnerware. It suggests natural party venues and green games, encourages meatless dining, and highlights local, eco-conscious products.

Jun 08 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Father’s day is chance to show love for the planet

Celebrate a "green" Father's Day with eco-friendly gifts and activities. Enjoy birdwatching at Tierra Verde Golf Club, explore bird feeders, puzzles, online learning, and nature guides. Choose sustainable suitcases, veggie chips, and eco-friendly wines. Consider a cast iron skillet, hydration blends, LED work lights, or vegan treats for Dad.

May 26 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Tiny home building business started by Dallas vet

Army veteran Peter Huggler and Christina Wester founded Indigo River Tiny Homes in Dallas, leveraging their construction skills from Habitat for Humanity. Their company builds custom tiny homes, combining sustainable materials with innovative designs, and supports veteran organizations while promoting eco-friendly living.

May 06 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Remember Mother Earth this Mother's Day

Celebrate Mother's Day on May 14 by honoring Mother Earth with eco-friendly gifts. Consider options like kayaking on the Trinity River, healthy Indian cooking, nature walks at Fort Worth Nature Center, supporting Rogers Wildlife Center, eco-friendly products, and sustainable treats like Uli’s Gelato and Bala hydration.

Apr 21 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Wild bird expert was leader in local rehab community

Wildlife expert Kathy Rogers, founder of Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, passed away at 73. Renowned in the DFW area, her center became a premier facility treating around 5,000 birds annually. Known for never refusing a bird, Kathy inspired many, leaving a lasting legacy in wildlife rehabilitation.