Recycle, Reduce, Reuse… all great ways to cut costs and save money!
Recycling is something that was ingrained in me from an early childhood. Thanks Dad! I like to recycle because it makes me feel good. I get the feeling that I am actually doing my part in ensuring my children’s world and future. After all, aren’t we just borrowing Mother Earth for the time that we are here?
We are recycling.
Reducing our footprint was something we just recently started. Although as of right now, we are working on being more proactive in this, but it is still a work in progress. This is one thing that we do that is really simple and rewarding. Whenever we make trips to the grocery store, we always bring along those cloth tote bags so that we do not need the plastic bags to haul our groceries home. I actually keep several of these bags in my trunk, especially for those unplanned store stops. What I really love about bringing my own bags besides the reduction of waste is the additional fact that the bags never break or rip. It always seems that by the time
I get home and start unloading, it is a guessing game as to whether or not I will make it in the house before all of the groceries spill in the driveway.
We are reducing. (Well, starting to anyway!)
Reusing is something that really appeals to my frugal side. Lord knows I love saving money. I constantly invent reasons to give items dual purpose before recycling them. We use shoe boxes to organize all of our craft supplies. We also use old margarine tubs to house Barbie’s wardrobe and accessories. It is also true that I have sent left-overs home nestled inside empty food containers. (I love this because I never have to worry about trying to track my Tupperware down!)
We are reusing.
It was Sunday night’s dinner that preempted me to look at the glass spaghetti jar and think, “This would make a really cute candle.” That was all it took to get me started. I was on the hunt for reusing!
Here’s what I found on my kitchen quest.
Candles
Baby jars- excellent ideas for cute baby shower candle favors
Cans
Plastic Lunchmeat containers- perfect for storing votives and tea lights
Jelly jars
Mugs
Glass cups
Glass bowls
The possibilities are endless. In fact, these “previously used” glass containers can be really cute when decorated with some tissue paper, a little ribbon, and some glue.
But, do not feel that reusing the containers in your kitchen is your only option. If you would like to reduce your packaging costs, especially on the candle glass, you can always offer your customers a refill option for them at a reduced price. All they would have to do is bring their own containers, or their original candle container back to you (cleaned, of course!), and you can refill it.
Don’t you just love being cost effect… it is an AMAZING feeling!
In the realm of wax, whenever I have wax left over from candle making, I pour it in an old cookie sheet and let it harden. Then, I use an old pizza slicer to and cut up the wax into funky shapes. Sometimes it is confetti style, although most times it is free style. I then put my wax pieces into an old plastic lunchmeat container and store. Then, whenever I have unexpected guests, or I am feeling like my mood needs a little pick me up, I just toss some in my tart warmer and start sniffing away.
Reusing your containers is only the tip of the iceberg. Any small changes add up to have huge results. Get creative, and remember… “Waste not, Want not.” –Ben Franklin
Fragrance & Fun for Everyone
Inspire, Create, and Dominate!
Sparkles!!! Nicole
(Corporate Manager of
Natures Garden Candle Supplies)
