Going Green

Nikko, Japan. 2007.  The biggest trees I've ever seen! 

I love being green. I love the color green. I love being frugal and saving some green in my wallet. And perhaps above all else, I love making strides to creating a greener earth. Recycling to reduce waste, up-cycling to increase creativity--that's just how I roll.

So when I heard that eco-conscious furniture company, Arhaus, had struck a partnership with the American Forest Foundation, I was excited to say the least. Arhaus features skilled artisans that utilize recycled copper, reclaimed wood, and an ethical means to manufacturing to furnish homes with unique wares that don't comprise the environment. Arhaus dining tables, for example, come in various styles including traditional, modern, and industrial. And if you take a look around, you'll see that the reclaimed wood and recycled materials are put to fine use. I, for one, LOVE the barn wood!

Did you know that approximately 3.5-7 billion trees are cut down every year in the United States?* 

It's becoming crucial that as consumers, we advocate for companies and organizations that keep the environment in the forefront of their decision-making. And in addition to their transparency with their manufacturing policies, this Arhaus partnership is putting your purchasing power to work for the environment. 

Every purchase that you make from Arhaus will help plant a tree through the American Forest Foundation--an organization that promotes wildlife funding and conservation projects across the country. 

But if you're not in the market for furniture, Arhaus (with a little addition from Let's Go Thrifting) has these handy tips to make your home more eco-friendly. So in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, when you're out to spend money...spend it smart. Do your research into the companies that support the causes that matter. Look for the materials used. Look for nonprofit organizations and foundations that the companies support. Look for natural, organic, locally made goods. And don't forget to look to the thrift store!

How do you plan on going green in your home? 

*Source: Rainforest Action Network

The Resource Exchange of Philadelphia, PA

In the Port Richmond area of Philadelphia, within a red-bricked building a mere 20 minutes from my home, lies a business based entirely on creative reuse.

Since 2009, The Resource Exchange has salvaged tons, literally tons of what was once considered waste. From theatrical props and set pieces, to art supplies, fabrics, lumber and a miscellany of remnants from buildings and movie demolitions, The Resource Exchange will take it all in and sell it cheaply to Philadelphia artists and crafters. This cyclical rescue mission lessens the landfills, keeps the theatrical goods in Philly for creative reuse and makes for interesting browsing.

Here's just some of what The Resource Exchange had in store.

If you ever find yourself in the Philadelphia area and are looking for some creative inspiration when it comes to secondhand supplies, The Resource Exchange at 2829 Cedar Street is a must-see salvage center.