Islander By Choice - "Do more than shop local, wear local."

August 5, 2008 ("El Mondos")

An island in every sense of the word, Galveston has survived and re-imagined herself time and again through the passion and ingenuity and sometimes delusion of its residents. Five locals have started a new Galveston label promoting the Island attitude and lifestyle that promises to be more than your typical souvenir: it's a piece of Galveston's witty neighbors and quirky history. Together, they formed Islander By Choice (IBC) and have unveiled their first t-shirt for IBCs, BOIs, and visitors alike. Islander By Choice was started by Adrienne and Michael Culpepper, Lauren and Kevin Scott, and Will Wright, who wanted original Galveston t-shirts that capture the character of the Island with style in mind.

Capitalizing on a kooky sense of wit and wisdom and some forgotten facts, they want to promote Galveston pride and a truer spirit of the Island. What began as local friends joking in a shop one summer has now launched with their first t-shirt: the IBC definition shirt. And don't worry - visitors and locals alike, including Born On the Islanders, will want to rock this shirt across the Island.

Galveston Island is a unique place that breeds attitude and eccentricity from its historic homes and downtown to the Seawall and its colorful characters. These IBCs know the melodic pull that keeps visitors coming back and the magnetic force that holds locals here at home. This odd little sandbar is ripe with attitude, strangeness, and yes, a bit of tomfoolery.

Launched on the 4th of July, Islander By Choice wants you to do more than shop local. Wear local.

To check out the premier IBC shirt, visit www.ibcgalveston.com, where you can also order your very own piece of Galveston pride and get information on upcoming products and events. You may also purchase a shirt at Nautical Antiques & Décor and visit our MySpace and Facebook pages.