Sign In

Meri Barnes

Founder and CEO, The Shop Forward

Meri Barnes is the founder and CEO of The Shop Forward, a social-impact-driven online platform that raises funds for various charitable causes through the sale of apparel and accessories. Since its inception in November 2014, The Shop Forward has successfully raised over $5.5 million to support numerous organizations and initiatives, including those focused on education, health, and disaster relief.123

Background and Career

Meri Barnes has a significant background in fashion, having worked as a Senior Account Executive at Marc Jacobs International for nearly seven years before launching her own ventures. In addition to The Shop Forward, she founded the Ugly Christmas Sweater Kit in 2013, which operated until 2020.145 Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Pepperdine University.1

Philanthropic Focus

The Shop Forward operates on a unique model where each product sold includes a built-in donation to a specific cause. This approach allows customers to contribute directly to charitable efforts while purchasing high-quality products.23 Meri's commitment to philanthropy is evident in her partnerships with various influencers and organizations, such as UNICEF and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact through her business endeavors.235

Personal Insights

Meri is known for her passion for Haiti, where she has been involved in charitable work. Her experiences there have influenced her philanthropic efforts and shaped her perspective on social responsibility. She emphasizes the beauty and resilience of the Haitian people, aiming to raise awareness about the challenges they face while promoting hope through her initiatives.5

In summary, Meri Barnes combines her expertise in fashion with her dedication to philanthropy through The Shop Forward, creating a platform that not only sells products but also fosters meaningful contributions to society.

Highlights

Q+A with Meri Barnes and Amy Brown - Project Medishare
The Shop Forward - Choice Media and Communications
The Shop Forward - Choice Media and Communications

Related Questions

What inspired Meri Barnes to transition from fashion to philanthropy?
How has The Shop Forward impacted the communities it has supported?
What are some of the most successful campaigns run by The Shop Forward?
How does Meri Barnes balance her role as CEO with her personal life?
What challenges has Meri Barnes faced in running The Shop Forward?
Meri Barnes
Meri Barnes, photo 1
Meri Barnes, photo 2
Add to my network

Location

Newport Beach, California