Our Mission
First, Our Story: From The Shoreline to The Seashell Society
After decades working in the organic and natural food industry, my professional path shifted suddenly due to an acquisition that eliminated my position. While unexpected, it created space for something I didn’t realize I needed—a pause.
The place I’ve always gone to reset, reflect, and restore has been the ocean.
In the days following that transition, my husband and I went to the shore. We walked the water’s edge, collected shells, and spent the day simply being present. It was grounding, calming, and exactly what I needed to begin imagining the next chapter.
I’ve always had a strong creative instinct and a love for teaching others. What began as experimenting with shells—large mosaic pieces, mixed-media art, and eventually decoupaged shells for holiday gifts—quickly turned into something more. I found myself making hundreds of shells, inviting friends to create alongside me, and watching how naturally community formed around the process.
That is how Sip N Shell—and ultimately The Seashell Society—was born.
The ocean has provided me with peace and clarity throughout my life. Being able to give back to organizations working to protect and preserve it makes this work deeply meaningful.
Founded by Leslie Serao
Woman-Owned | Based in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey
Giving Back Is a Core Part of Our Mission
The Seashell Society partners with ocean and wildlife conservation nonprofits throughout the year. Each quarter, we spotlight a different organization and donate a portion of proceeds from events and retail sales to support their work.
Current & Planned 2026 Partners Include:
Q1: Audubon Society (coastal birds & habitats)
Q2: Clean Ocean Action- (protecting NJ/NY waterways)
Q3: NJ Chapter Surfrider foundation (plastic reduction, beach clean up, education)
Q4: Plastic Neutral Foundation (plastic offset & ocean impact reduction)
As a small, New Jersey-based business, we are committed to starting locally and growing our impact thoughtfully.
May the shells on the beach remind you that treasures arrive every day in the form of simple things.
-Obasanjo Samuel