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

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.

Mar 09 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

10 green ways to celebrate St. Patrick's Day

Celebrate an eco-friendly St. Patrick's Day with ten green ideas: reuse decorations, opt for biodegradable glitters, try meatless recipes, shop locally, use reusable dinnerware, choose eco-friendly disposables, enjoy outdoor activities, use public transport, donate to environmental causes, and choose natural dyes over chemicals.

Feb 03 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Valentine's Day is chance to show love for Mother Earth

Valentine's Day presents an opportunity to celebrate love sustainably. Suggestions include eco-friendly activities like biking, vegan dining at TLC Vegan Café, virtual cow hugs from The Gentle Barn, cooking classes at Indulge, local gift boxes, Texas-made goods from Go Texan, Flying Wish Paper, and organic socks from Maggies Organics.

Dec 15 2022, ANDREA RIDOUT

2022 Green Gift Guide

The 2022 Green Gift Guide showcases eco-friendly gift options including sustainable products from Rooted In Nursery, local food services, vegan-friendly stores, and unique kid kits. Offerings include Forever Sneakers, Fig Brew, artisan goods from Chisholm Country Store, and gifts for pets, emphasizing sustainability and conservation across categories.

Sep 15 2022, ANDREA RIDOUT

Ready for more rain? Check out these rain barrels, gauges

Install a rain gauge and rain barrel to harness rainwater, saving 1,300 gallons yearly. Quality barrels with brass spigots, proper placement, mosquito prevention, and stable bases are vital. Ready-made and DIY options exist, like Epoch, Wayfair, and Home Depot barrels. Complement with unique rain gauges from Mo Clune or La Crosse Technology.

Jun 29 2022, ANDREA RIDOUT

North Texas couples wed with green style

North Texas couples are opting for eco-friendly weddings to reduce landfill waste. Examples include Brandi Addison’s Earth Day wedding and Claire and Anders’ green nuptials using recycled materials, locally-sourced food, and rented items. Natalie and Ben also embraced sustainable practices. Tips include digital invites, renting, and composting.

Feb 09 2022, ANDREA RIDOUT

2022 Green Valentine Gift Guide

The Green Valentine Gift Guide showcases eco-friendly gifts, highlighting Black-owned businesses like Cinnaholic in Fort Worth for vegan treats, Chocolate Secrets for decadent bonbons, and Makers Connect for artisan gifts. It features plant-based eateries like Sankofa Kitchen and unique products from local enterprises such as Jammit Jam and White Rock Granola.