At just 17, Gabrielle Parrulli daringly launched her own business during the pandemic, driven by her love for New Mexico and passion for sustainability.
“I had a lot of motivation to start this business, one of them being my desire to clean up and captivate New Mexico’s true beauty,” she says. What began as a mobile refillery in a 1964 Airstream trailer grew into a thriving brick-and-mortar store in northeast Albuquerque, transforming how New Mexicans think about waste and consumption. “I didn’t want to wait for life to happen. I wanted to create something positive, to show people there’s another way to shop—one that’s better for the planet and for us.”
Gabrielle founded The Fillin’ Funky Refillery in 2021 with a simple mission: make sustainable living accessible. “A refillery is a place where anyone can bring their own containers and refill it with virtually anything. It’s budget-friendly because you only pay for what you need or want to try.” Refilleries reduce waste by letting customers refill household essentials like soaps, cleaners, and pantry staples. “Even if someone forgets a container, I have extras ready because every bottle deserves a second life.”
How the Refillery Works
- Bring your own container or use a free one provided at the shop
- Fill up on what you need, measured by weight
- Pay for only what you take
“It’s budget-friendly, convenient, and dramatically cuts down on plastic waste,” Gabrielle explains.
Challenges, Growth, and Community Impact
Starting young came with challenges. “My first challenge was opening a business as a minor. I worked overtime and leaned on my family to make it happen. Being a woman made it hard too—my voice was shadowed, but I stayed persistent until I was heard.” Navigating tax laws and shifting consumer habits were other hurdles. “Changing people’s habits is hard, but inspiring curiosity and spreading the word really helps.”
In 2024, Gabrielle moved into her permanent storefront. “Opening a storefront was always the dream. Now I can offer more products, host community events, and have a permanent home while still traveling for pop-ups.” The space allows her to strengthen community ties and support local businesses. “I prioritize stocking locally made soaps that are safe for sensitive skin, sustainably made, and zero-waste. Supporting local businesses was importantto me, especially after seeing how hard COVID hit them.”
“If I do source outside New Mexico, it’s only from small U.S. businesses that share myvalues. Supporting local strengthens our community and builds trust.” Gabrielle also emphasizes the importance of ethical sourcing: “We are selling items that are actually good for the planet and the people as well.”
Gabrielle also utilizes Fillin’ Funky as a space to hold community events- “I love hosting events like poetry readings, art shows, and our ‘Swap Don’t Shop’ gatherings, which encourage peopl
e to reduce waste by trading items insteadof buying new.” She also shares that her next community event is an art show on April 14th, with a creative theme: “However you feel inspired to create when listening to the song Ladyfingers by Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass.”
To stay up to date with Gabrielle and her community events at Fillin’ Funky, or if you have inquiries about applying to be in her art show April 14th, visit her website [PRESS HERE].
Inspiring a Refill Revolution
The community’s response has been powerful. “Four years ago, there were only two refilleries in New Mexico. Now there are seven. It’s incredible to see the growth. People are understanding the mission and showing love and support.” Gabrielle rewards loyal customers with monthly giveaways and incentives. “I want to inspire younger generations and show them they can create their own reality and drive change.”
Looking ahead, Gabrielle is hopeful. “I see refilleries becoming mainstream. It’s a domino effect once people start voting with their dollars and demanding less plastic. One day, everyone will know what a refillery is.” She adds, “I hope this inspires people to support small businesses. We’re the ones trying the hardest and caring the most.”
Gabrielle Parrulli proves that passion and persistence can spark lasting change. “Supporting small businesses is supporting your community, your environment, and your future. I hope more people realize that and take the leap.”
Visit Gabrielle at her Fillin’ Funky Refillery at:
12501 Candelaria Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112
Hours:
Mon-Thur – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri-Sat – 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Stay Connected with Gabrielle & Follow Fillin’ Funky:
Article By ABQLive Staff
Photos Courtesy of ABQLive
Find more ABQ-Live Articles Here
