OUR JOURNEY
With a rich background steeped in the nuances of retail, complemented by a robust design sensibility and extensive experience as a co-founder of In2green, Lori brings a unique blend of expertise to the table. Her journey, spanning years of immersion in the retail landscape and formal training in design, has honed an ability to curate and showcase the finest modern independent design with unparalleled insight and finesse.
Drawing on her years of experience, Lori Kenig Slater possesses unparalleled insight into showcasing the finest in modern independent design and meticulously curated product selections tailored for retailers, boutiques, and luxury resorts. The Just North comprehensive suite of services includes strategic seasonal buying strategies, bespoke sourcing solutions, the creation of exclusive private label collections, expert merchandising guidance, and dedicated sell-through support.
Our primary objective is to empower retailers to envision and execute their unique brand identities by introducing them to cutting-edge products, refining their offerings, and facilitating connections with top-tier local and national independent designers and emerging talents. With Just North, retailers can confidently navigate the ever-evolving landscape of retail, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve and provide their customers with a curated selection of the finest goods.
Before founding Just North in 2024, Lori embarked on a remarkable journey as the co-founder of In2green, a globally recognized eco-luxury brand renowned for its modern knit and woven textiles. Leading the charge as sustainable innovators, Lori and her team pioneered groundbreaking initiatives, including the creation of the first indoor/outdoor throw crafted entirely from 100% recycled plastic water bottles. With a commitment to American craftsmanship, they partnered with third-generation knitters and weavers to produce all products in the USA.
“Creative retailing is my passion and in my blood. My family founded New York’s iconic ‘Love’ stores and ‘Ricky’s NYC’, and I grew up surrounded and fascinated by the customer experience and the community of specialized stores. As such, the sourcing, merchandising, and theatre of retail is a part of who I am, what I do best, and what I share with my clients.”
— LORI KENIG SLATER
As Co-Owner, Creative Director, and Lead Designer of In2Green, Lori's vision and strategic partnerships extended beyond her own collections, growing to include diverse collaborations with female artists, and captivating a broad clientele, which spanned over 600 independent retail boutiques, luxury resorts such as Auberge Resort Bishops Lodge and Enchantment Resorts, and renowned brands like Pottery Barn and Mark and Graham.
The in2green concept store, established in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York in 2018, served as a beacon of curated luxury, showcasing not only their signature throws and pillows but also a thoughtfully curated selection of premium gifts, apparel, and home goods from independent designers and local artisans. Its impact on the local retail landscape was profound, heralding a new era of destination lifestyle shopping in the area.
In July 2023, Lori and her partner Stefanie successfully sold in2green, paving the way for her next chapter. With her expertise spanning business, manufacturing, merchandising, product sourcing, and design, coupled with her extensive network in retail, hospitality, and independent manufacturing, Just North Design emerged as a natural evolution in 2024.
Images: top to bottom: Image 1: In2Green photo shoot Creative Direction, product design and development by Lori Kenig Slater. Image produced for annual catalogue showcasing the latest award winning eco-luxury products. Image 2: Interior Design commission. Image 3: As before. Photography: Lindsay Selin Photography