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United by the Coast: The Story Behind The Gulf Shores Store

Where Friendship Meets Coastal Inspiration
A shared passion for the Gulf Coast and a friendship rooted in creativity gave rise to The Gulf Shores Store—a celebration of all things sun, saltwater, and sand. Founders Mary Beth Greene and Lisette Normann have spent decades living, working, and raising families along Alabama’s scenic shoreline. Their friendship, now over 20 years strong, has carried them through personal and professional milestones, each cheering the other on through life’s adventures.

With Mary Beth’s vibrant mb greene bag designs and Lisette’s celebrated stores in Fairhope and Orange Beach, the pair have blended their signature styles into one cohesive coastal brand. The Gulf Shores Store is a joyful reflection of their shared journey—and a tribute to the beachside lifestyle they cherish.

Meet Lisette: Artist, Entrepreneur, Gulf Coast Native
Lisette Milham Normann’s artistry speaks to her roots. Raised on the edge of Mobile Bay, she grew up surrounded by creativity and the rhythms of coastal life—sailing, pier jumping, and soaking up the bay breeze. She launched her first business at age six with a candy stand on the Fairhope Pier, and her entrepreneurial spirit never faded.

After a successful art career in New Orleans, Lisette returned home to raise her children and shape two beloved local brands: The Fairhope Store and The Orange Beach Store. Her work captures the timeless charm of the Gulf and is woven throughout the design identity of the region. She also creates for communities and businesses all along the coast, infusing heart and heritage into every piece.

Meet Mary Beth: Visionary of Travel-Ready Style
Mary Beth Greene’s path to entrepreneurship started at the kitchen table—with scissors, tape, and big dreams. A former teacher and sales rep turned designer, she launched mb greene in 2015, offering stylish, functional travel gear. From garage startup to national recognition—including features on Good Morning America, TODAY, and InStyle—her totes and accessories now grace boutiques coast to coast.

Each piece is a heartfelt nod to family, travel, and color—designed to go from beach to ballpark with ease. Her favorite place to brainstorm new ideas? Gulf Shores, of course.

One Store. One Shore. One Coastal Community.
The Gulf Shores Store isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a tribute to the lifestyle and spirit of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Every product reflects a love of design, local flavor, and genuine community connection. It’s about telling stories, sparking conversations, and holding onto the memories that make coastal life so special.

Together, Lisette and Mary Beth have built a brand that embraces hustle, creativity, and friendship. The Gulf Shores Store is their way of sharing a little piece of paradise with everyone who walks through the door.