Karissa Bowers – EcoSalon

These 3 Powerful Tea Tree Oil Uses Make it a Medicine Cabinet Must

Karissa Bowers — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 07:00:27 +0000

iStock/AWEvans

These three tea tree oil uses can help clear up skin, make hair shinier, and ward off allergies and sinus congestion. With just a drop or two, tea tree oil may help clarify and cleanse.

Note: Before trying any of these tea tree oil uses, do a patch test to ensure you don’t experience any negative reaction to tea tree oil which can be potent. Dilute two drops of tea tree oil in one teaspoon of a carrier oil such as cold pressed olive oil. Then dab the mixture on your arm and leave for at least 24 hours. Avoid exposing the patch of skin to water and preferably cover with a bandage during this time. If any redness or irritation occurs, do not use again without consulting a medical professional.

3 Tea Tree Oil Uses

1. Keeping Skin Clear

Ditch the skin-drying salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide which tend to do more harm than good. Instead, reach for tea tree oil which can cleanse the pores and clear up pimples overnight. To use tea tree oil as a spot treatment, try the following:

After washing face and moisturizing, dampen a cotton round or washcloth with water. Put a drop of tea tree oil on the damp cotton round or washcloth and then press to pimple for a few seconds. Let sit overnight and wash off any oil residue in the morning. If you have sensitive skin, get the cloth very wet and ring out a bit after adding the drop of oil to dilute it further.

2. Removing Product Buildup from Hair

One of the negative side effects I’ve experienced from using natural shampoos and conditioners is product buildup. After a while, I’ll find the shampoo and conditioner leaves a residue behind after each wash. For a while, I would just switch shampoos which would solve the problem until it recurred.

It turns out, tea tree oil works wonderfully to remove product buildup. Get a small travel size shampoo bottle and fill ¾ full with your shampoo. Add two drops tea tree oil and shake well. Once a month, use the tea tree shampoo to remove product buildup. Rinse and condition afterward.

3. Clearing Sinuses

Tea tree oil is one of my favorite essential oils to help keep my sinuses clear and allergies at bay. I love adding it to my diffuser whenever I’m experiencing sinus congestion. If you don’t have a diffuser though, you can still get its amazing benefits. Bring a pot of water to boil. Transfer to a large glass bowl and then add five to six drops tea tree oil. Breathe in the steam, cover your head with a towel to maximize, for a few minutes. Be cautious not to burn yourself with the hot steam.

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These 4 Vegan Ballet Flats Will Put a Spring in Your Step

Karissa Bowers — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 08:00:07 +0000

Image via Tieks

Spring brings with it the perfect weather to wear ballet flats. Every girl needs a pair in her closet and while many are made from leather, these sweet styles prove vegan ballet flats are just as chic!

The trickiest part of shopping for vegan ballet flats is finding a pair that is not only faux leather but also comfortable. Many times, faux leather is used to be cost effective rather than animal-friendly, which means they’re not designed to last–or feel all that great on your feet! These styles, fortunately, are higher quality and therefore should keep your feet from aching.

Try one of these cruelty-free flats to perk up your spring style!

Vegan Ballet Flats

1. Olsenhaus B-Babylon-Lavender Ballet Flats

These faux suede ballet flats from Olsenhaus are the epitome of spring. In an unexpected shade, lavender, these shoes will put a pop of color into your outfit. Plus, Olsenhaus shoes are not only cruelty-free but also fair-trade and eco-friendly.

2. Tieks Silver Lake Vegan Ballet Flats

Tieks are an essential for on-the-go women everywhere due to their easy transportability. Each shoe rolls into a compact shape which makes them ideal for tucking away in a purse or gym bag. Tieks offers a few vegan selections like these gray flats which are made from synthetic materials without parabens or artificial dyes.

3. Noah Italian Vegan Shoes Catherine Flats

These ballet flats by Noah Italian Vegan Shoes are elegant and refined. Their ladylike style remains a classic suited for a wide range of occasions. The shoes are composed of a supple faux suede which has a luxurious look and feel. Unlike real suede, the microsuede Noah Italian Vegan Shoes uses is waterproof so you won’t need to treat the shoes with a protectant coat before wearing them.

4. Melissa Space Love + Jason Wu III

Who wouldn’t covet a shoe designed by Jason Wu go-to designer of the former First Lady, Michelle Obama? Wu collaborated with Melissa Shoes to create these pale pink ballet flats, which are romantic yet refined. Melissa Shoes are made from vegan-friendly PVC so any of its styles will keep your closet cruelty-free.

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8 Vegan Brunch Recipes for the Best Weekend Ever

Karissa Bowers — Fri, 17 Feb 2017 08:00:59 +0000

iStock/kajakiki

These plant-based brunch recipes prove that there are more options than just mimosas for vegans at brunch. From sweet to savory, there are so many delicious dishes to try at your next brunch. Whichever you choose to make, each dish is bound to wow.

Vegan Brunch Recipes

1. Vegan Pancakes with Orange Moscato Syrup and Pine Nuts

Image via Gene Baur

Bet you’ve never had pancakes this gourmet! These vegan pancakes are drizzled with an orange moscato syrup and topped with pine nuts. This Italian spin on pancakes is guaranteed to impress any skeptics.

2. Tofu Scramble

Image via Karissa Bowers

A hearty side of tofu scramble is a must for every brunch plate. With sauteed onions and bell pepper, this tofu scramble is anything but bland. Amp up the flavor with a side of sriracha ketchup.

3. Vegan Sweet Potato Granola

Image via Angelique Panagos

Everyone loves granola and the endless ways to eat it. Try setting out some sliced bananas and strawberries and a bowl of non-dairy yogurt to go with this recipe. Each crunchy bite is full of fiber and protein to keep you sustained.

4. Vegan, Gluten-Free Crepes

Crepes image via Shutterstock

Add a touch of Paris with these vegan gluten-free crepes. Be sure to pair the crepes with sliced fruit, vegan chocolate spread, coconut whipped cream, and organic powdered sugar. Guests will be delighted with their light and airy texture.

5. Vegan Gluten-Free Greek Farinata

Image via Karissa Bowers

This quiche-like Greek farinata is full of flavor and is perfect for those who prefer a savory breakfast. With kalamata olives, fresh rosemary, and shallots this dish will add a fragrant touch to your plant-based spread.

6. Fluffy Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

Image via Lemony Snacker

A gooey cinnamon roll is impossible to resist so bake up a batch of these fluffy, cinnamony delights to win over all of your brunch attendees. Don’t forget a healthy drizzle of icing!

7. Thai-Flavored Green Juice

iStock/jenifoto

For all of your brunch guests who just got done with yoga or spin class, this green juice will be right up their alley. Plus, it has a unique Thai-twist which have everyone buzzing about it.

8. Fiesta Style Breakfast Potatoes

Image via Karissa Bowers

These breakfast potatoes have a spicy kick from pico de gallo and a sweet touch from pineapple. The juxtaposition of flavors makes for an addictive side dish that balances out an array of sweet dishes.

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The Greatest Valentine’s Day Gift: Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Truffles

Karissa Bowers — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 17:45:43 +0000

iStock/Metkalova

These decadent and dreamy chocolate truffles are the perfect sweet treat for your loved one this Valentine’s Day. With dark chocolate and sweet raspberry, the flavors couldn’t be any more romantic.

These vegan truffles get their chocolatey gooey magic from coconut milk. Smooth and creamy coconut milk works wonderfully to create an irresistible ganache. These truffles are bound to melt in your mouth and leave you reaching for more.

A touch of raspberry elevates these truffles to being Valentine-worthy. The tart yet sweet berry flavor complements the dark chocolate. Garnish your truffles with a few raspberries for a sophisticated presentation.

Raspberry Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients
¼ cup BPA-free canned coconut milk
1 ⅔ cups dark chocolate chips, divided
6 ounces raspberries, finely chopped
⅓ cup cacao powder
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon sea salt

Directions
Line a baking tray with a baking mat or parchment paper. Add the coconut milk to a medium saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until bubbles appear. Reduce heat to low and add one cup chocolate chips and sea salt. Whisk until completely smooth, turning off heat as soon as the mixture is smooth.

Add in vanilla extract and raspberries. Stir until smooth. Pour melted chocolate into a small, square pan and place in refrigerator to set for 40-50 minutes.

Once chocolate is firm yet pliable, use a small melon baller or spoon to scoop and shape chocolate into round balls. Place on lined baking tray and transfer to freezer for 15 minutes, until firm.

Melt remaining chocolate in a double boiler until smooth. Using tongs or two forks, dunk each chocolate raspberry ball into the melted chocolate and return to tray. Transfer to refrigerator to chill for 15 minutes.

Add cacao to a small bowl. Roll each chocolate truffle in the cacao and return to tray. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to eat. Enjoy!

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These 5 Amazing Kitchen Tools Make Cooking So Easy

Karissa Bowers — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 17:03:06 +0000

iStock/Merc67

Every chef needs a set of handy kitchen tools that help make cooking faster and easier. These must-have kitchen essentials enhance the cooking process and are actually useful rather than gimmicky.

5 Amazing Kitchen Tools

1. Mandoline

A mandoline is practically a necessity. It is useful for a variety of purposes including slicing onions, making fries, chopping veggies, and more. I especially love to use my mandoline when making scalloped potatoes since it can slice the potatoes exactly to ¼” inch width. Most mandolines are collapsible for easy storage and many are dishwasher safe for fast cleaning.

2. Herb Scissors

Mincing herbs is far easier with a sharp pair of herb scissors. Most fresh herbs are incredibly delicate so if you slice them up with a dull knife, the force will wilt and brown them. Herb scissors are a much better option since the quick snip keeps them looking fresh.

3. Microplane Grater

Microplane graters are useful for more than just grating cheese. They are incredibly helpful for preparing garlic, ginger, and zests. Simply wash up a lemon and glide it along the sharp blades to prepare a zest. A microplane is essential when preparing ginger since it manages to preserve the juices while making it small enough to mix into sauces.

4. Salad Spinner

Skip the unnecessary plastic packaging and extra cost of prewashed salad greens by buying lettuce in its whole state. With a salad spinner, washing and prepping your own lettuce for salads is far easier and much more cost effective. By simply pushing down on a button, moist lettuce gets whirled into dryness.

There is also quite a few alternative uses for salad spinners. Try spinning pasta after draining it to get it bone dry which will help sauce adhere to it better. You can also speed dry herbs and fruits with a quick whirl.

5. Cookie Dough Scoop

Cookie dough scoops are useful for more than baking sweets. They are also incredibly useful for scooping ice cream, making melon balls, and creating crevices in fruits and veggies for stuffing. You can find them in sizes ranging from half an ounce to three-eighths of an ounce.

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4 Shocking Facts the Wool Industry Doesn’t Want You to Know

Karissa Bowers — Mon, 09 Jan 2017 08:00:15 +0000

istock/clickhere

If you think your wool sweater is just the harmless result of a sheep’s haircut then be prepared for the itchy truth the wool industry goes to great lengths to cover up.

The wool industry is cruel and makes the lives of sheep anything but easy. With the number of alternatives gaining in quality and quantity, the time to ditch wool is now. These shocking truths will have you convinced wool-free is the way to go.

1. Wool is Cruel

Wool is incredibly cruel and undesirable for a number of reasons. First is the treatment of the sheep. The sheep have holes punched in their ears to be tagged, their tails cut off, and male sheep are castrated, most often without any anesthetic. Furthermore, there are countless reports of sheep being unnecessarily beaten and injured during the shearing process.

Patagonia was the subject of a scandal a few years back when an undercover PETA video revealed employees of the outdoor clothing retailer’s supplier was beating animals. Thankfully, Patagonia stopped using that supplier, but it showed what really goes on behind closed doors–even for brands with sustainability and ethics commitments like Patagonia.

The wool industry practice of mulesing is the cruelly painful removal of skin folds around the sheeps’ buttocks to prevent flies from laying eggs (they’re attracted by the feces and urine). This is a widespread industry norm often done without the use of any anesthetic and is incredible painful for the animals.

2. Sheep Need Wool

Contrary to what the wool industry would like you to think, they aren’t doing the sheep any favors by shearing them. Sheep’s bodies grow enough hair to control their temperatures and makes them most able to adapt to a variety of climates.

3. Major Greenhouse Gas Contributions

Methane is an extremely potent greenhouse gas, which animals on farms, such as sheep, produce each time they burp (or pass gas). Leading wool producing countries Australia and New Zealand have significant levels of methane contributing to their emissions output. According to The Wall Street Journal, agriculture is responsible 48 percent of New Zealand’s greenhouse gasses. These startling facts show how much of a toll wool production takes on the environment.

4. Endless Alternatives

Acrylic, bamboo, and cotton are just a few cruelty-free fabrics that can substitute wool. They are even cozier since they are itch-free and can be found in coat, sweater, or sock form. By skipping wool, you’re washing yourself clean of the cruelty that animals and the planet suffer for wool production.

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These 3 Powerful Herbal Tea Benefits Will Make You Ditch Your Cup of Coffee

Karissa Bowers — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 18:18:13 +0000

iStock/PortisHead1

Warm up with a cozy cup of herbal tea to enrich your body and soul. You won’t be missing the jitters from your usual cup of coffee with the abundance of herbal tea benefits.

Best Types of Herbal Tea

Ranging from zesty ginger to calming chamomile, there are a wide variety of herbal teas and benefits to each type. These nutritious yet comforting herbal teas are great starters:

Chamomile
Ginger
Hibiscus
Lemon Balm
Peppermint
Rose
Turmeric

Herbal Tea Benefits

1. Digestive

The many healing properties of herbal teas can help the digestive system. If you’re looking to improve digestion or just ease a queasy stomach, then you’ll want either ginger, lemon balm, or peppermint tea.

In a number of studies, ginger has been proven to be a reliable aid to reducing nausea and vomiting. Peppermint, on the other hand, works to ease stomach spasms and cramping. Lemon balm, similarly, has been shown to be effective in diminishing bloating and alleviating an upset stomach.

2. Immune Support

Herbal tea is especially helpful during cold and flu season. Many herbal teas boast immune-boosting properties which may help to combat or prevent viruses. For these benefits, reach for echinacea or elderberry tea.

Echinacea is especially promising in preventing and easing colds. Research has shown it increases the number of white blood cells in the body, which fight infection.

Elderberry, alternatively, contains antioxidant-rich flavonoids that are useful in boosting the immune system. While there are minimal studies done on the health benefits of elderberry, the herb has been suggested to prevent and soothe cold symptoms.

3. Anti-Inflammatory

If you frequently suffer from aches and pains, try an anti-inflammatory tea such as turmeric or hibiscus. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory benefits due to its curcumin content. Various studies have shown the substance can help fight inflammation in the body.

Hibiscus, a fruity tasting flower, is another suitable choice. Hibiscus is rich in vitamin C which is known to combat inflammation. It also makes for a delicious summer drink when iced and swirled with a teaspoon of agave.

Where to Buy Organic Herbal Tea

Before buying your herbal tea, make sure you choose a brand that doesn’t use additives and artificial ingredients. Trusted brands include: Traditional Medicinals, Numi Tea, or Mountain Rose Herbs. Don’t forget, you can also go the eco-friendly route in buy loose leaf and steep using a tea infuser.

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The 5 Greatest Vegan Cookbooks Every Plant-Based Kitchen Needs

Karissa Bowers — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 08:00:02 +0000

iStock/NeuStockImages

While Pinterest is an undeniably useful source for finding new recipes, there is no real replacement for the comfort of a cookbook.

Flipping through the pages and gawking at the delicious-looking recipes is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. These vegan cookbooks suit the needs of everyone from the home chef with little experience to the ultimate foodie.

Also, for those with a gluten allergy or intolerance, you’ll be pleased to know these cookbooks contain recipes that are gluten-free or can be easily adapted.

The Greatest Vegan Cookbooks

1. “Chloe’s Kitchen”

In her debut cookbook, “Chloe’s Kitchen“, Chloe Coscarelli successfully veganizes classic dishes such as mac and cheese, fettuccine alfredo, and even In-N-Out inspired cheeseburgers! “Chloe’s Kitchen” is the perfect vegan cookbook for new and veteran vegans alike.

Coscarelli’s delicious recipes are actually largely responsible for my own personal transition from vegetarian to vegan. Even my non-vegan friends and family members haven’t been able to resist Coscarelli’s amazing recipes.

Try These Recipes:

Double Double Drive-Thru Burgers, page 103
Ooh-La-La Lasagna, page 136
Peanutty Perfection Noodles, page 141
Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Rolls, page 229

2. The “Oh She Glows Cookbook”

The “Oh She Glows Cookbook” by Angela Liddon is ideal for vegans who love nourishing recipes. The book is chock full of nutrient-rich recipes with wholesome ingredients. From green smoothies to salads to mains, this book has all of the recipes that your healthy lifestyle needs.

Try These Recipes:

Taco Fiesta Potato Crisps, page 85
Walnut, Avocado & Pear Salad with Marinated Portobello Caps & Red Onion, page 103
Summer Harvest Tortilla Soup, 135
Sweet Potato & Black Bean Enchiladas with Avocado-Cilantro Cream Sauce, page 147
Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bites, page 235

3. “Blissful Basil”

Newly released “Blissful Basil” by Ashley Melillo is the most unique vegan cookbook I’ve ever read. The pages are filled with recipes that I had never even tried anything similar to, despite my years of vegan cooking experience. I’ve only tried a handful of recipes so far but I loved every one of them.

Besides being filled with mouthwatering recipes, “Blissful Basil” is very allergy-friendly. Each recipe in the book is marked with symbols indicating if the recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, refined sugar-free, soy-free, nut-free, and/or oil-free.

Try These Recipes:

Crispy Cauliflower Tacos with Tangy Slaw + Avocado Crema, page 175
Shaved Carrot Reuben with Special Sauce + Swiss Cheese, page 185
Baked Mostaccioli with Walnut Bolognese + Cashew Mozzarella, page 219
Peanut Butter Cookies, page 281

4. “Chloe’s Vegan Italian Kitchen”

Chloe Coscarelli is the queen of vegan cookbooks. After publishing “Chloe’s Kitchen”, Coscarelli published “Chloe’s Vegan Desserts” and then the amazing, “Chloe’s Vegan Italian Kitchen“. This latest release, which veganizes classic Italian dishes, does not disappoint and I consider it a go-to.

Try These Recipes:

Avocado Caprese Pasta Salad, page 56
Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Apple Pizza, page 89
Pizza Burgers with Avocado Pesto, page 106
Tequila Tempeh Fettuccine, page 130
Leftover Red Wine Chocolate Cake with Drunken Raspberries, page 222

5. “The Kind Diet”

“The Kind Diet” by Alicia Silverstone not only contains tasty vegan fare but is also an excellent source for information on the benefits of veganism, nutrition, and sustainability. After just one read, the book convinced me to incorporate more a wider variety of vegetables and legumes into my diet.

“The Kind Diet” is broken down in an easy-to-follow format which makes flipping through its pages even easier. The first recipe section has healthy yet balanced recipes which are great for new vegans while the last section has nutritious, clean, and wholesome recipes. After I eat one of the meals from the books, I always feel sustained and energized.

Note: The book uses a lot of soy products so if you have an allergy or avoid soy, I would not recommend this book.

Try These Recipes:

Ginger-Baked Tofu, page 160
Sweet Potato-Lentil Stew, page 166
Cheesy, Oozy Guacamole Bean Dip, page 207
Braised Daikon in Mirin and Shoyu, page 271

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7 Cruelty-Free Snow Clothes Your Winter Wardrobe Needs

Karissa Bowers — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 08:00:15 +0000

iStock/Izusek

Staying chic and cruelty-free is a difficult feat come snow season. Most snow-proof clothing is either made from wool, leather, or down feathers–or it’s simply not flattering. But these slick snow essentials prove it’s possible to stay stylishly vegan while walking in a winter wonderland.

Cruelty-Free Snow Clothes

1. Thermal Top

Thermal tops lock in heat and are perfect for layering under snow jackets. This bandana print thermal by Free People is trendy and practical. Plus, it has a stretchy fit that’ll prevent you from feeling trapped beneath your layers.

2. Softshell Anorak

Jessica Simpson is one of my go-to brands for vegan snow jackets. Each season, there are usually at least three different cruelty-free styles to choose from. This soft shell anorak is perfect for wearing over a few layers on winter outings.

3. Quilted Puffer Jacket

This sleek puffer jacket by Jessica Simpson is perfect for staying extra warm with its polyester filling. Plus, it has a removable faux fur hood which will allow you to switch up your look. Water-resistant polyester means you’ll stay dry all day long in this cruelty-free snow coat.

4. Skinny Ski Pants

These slick ski pants have a skinny silhouette and are fitted closely to ensure you’ll look sophisticated. Their design allows you to ski effortlessly without being weighed or slowed down by baggy pants.

5. Floral Snow Pants

If snowboarding is your preferred snowsport, then these floral Burton snow pants are a must. The whimsical print will keep you looking trendy as you ride down the mountain. Plus, they are waterproof and very breathable with zipper vents running through the sides.

6. Colorblock Leggings

A comfy pair of leggings layered under your snow clothes are essential. The stretchy feel of these colorblock Free People leggings makes them ideal for both snow sports or just wintery walks. They’re also high-waisted which means they have the perfect rise for staying put as you move about.

7. Faux Leather Gloves

Finding gloves made without leather is always a challenge. But these Marmot gloves will keep your hands dry and warm with their faux leather coating and polyester-fleece interior. The printed trim adds a trendy touch that’ll help you stand out.

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How to Wrap Presents (without Destroying the Earth!)

Karissa Bowers — Fri, 23 Dec 2016 08:00:20 +0000

iStock/ThitareeSarmkasat

You can check gift wrap off your shopping list because there’s no need for buying when you can just DIY. We’re showing you how to wrap presents in 6 eco-friendly ways.

From old newspapers to shopping bags there are so many resources to wrap presents without harming our planet. By opting for recycled or reusable gift wrap, you’ll save money, reduce your waste, and avoid overcrowded malls.

The holiday season takes a huge toll on the environment. According to Stanford University, Americans produce 25 percent more waste from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. You can imagine where all that excess waste comes from; shopping bags, wrapping paper, tissue paper, bows, etc.

Don’t think that all your wrapping paper can just be recycled and then you’ve done your part. Most gift wrap and trimmings contain foil or metal fibers which means they can’t be recycled.

You can prevent adding to the already huge amount of holiday waste occurring by wrapping your presents in an eco-friendly manner. Here are some awesome eco ideas that are totally savvy and festive!

How to Wrap Presents without Destroying the Earth

1. Use Old Newspapers, Magazines, and Paper Bags

Save your brown paper grocery bags, old newspapers, and even magazines. They can all be repurposed into wrapping paper. Glossy prints from fashion magazines work great for wrapping up small boxes. Newspapers are very sturdy and reliable to use when wrapping gifts. Plus, they have a vintage vibe to them that’s classy and elegant. Brown paper bags; lunch or grocery sized, can be cut at the seams and spread out in the perfect rustic wrapping paper.

2. Try Unused Sheets or Scraps of Fabric

If you have any unused fabric in your house, use it to wrap your gift! Simply tie it around your gift or hold it together with ribbon. Fabric scraps can be used to make ribbons or bows. Encourage your gift recipient to save the fabric for future use.

3. Employ Reusable Shopping Bags

Many stores are now putting your purchases in reusable canvas or fabric bags. I recently bought a gift for a friend at 100% Pure and it was put into a pretty pink bag that was reusable. All I had to do was add some (recycled) tissue paper to make it ready for gifting. Your gift recipient will be able to use the bag too on future shopping trips.

4. Skip It Altogether (Kind Of)

Try to skip gift wrapping altogether. If you’re giving an experience rather than a materialistic object, then this is perfect. When giving tickets to an event such as a concert gift wrap definitely isn’t necessary. Put the tickets in a holiday card made from recycled paper instead.

5. Save Everything

If this is your first year trying to have a sustainable holiday season, you may not have a large collection of old ribbons, and gift bags to reuse. Well, it’s never too late to start! Ask family and friends if they have any old, unwanted ribbons or paper materials you can use for wrapping presents this year.

Then, at your gift exchange ask your friends and family if they mind you saving all gift bags, bows, and ribbons. Others may even want to join in, and in that case, you can just divvy it up between everyone. You’ll be set for next year’s holiday season with your new brimming collection of gift trimmings.

6. DIY It!

Save your shopping bags after trips to the mall so you can try this DIY project which uses old shopping bags to make holiday gift bags. All you need are solid paper shopping bags, a few stamps, and an ink pad to make them. It’s super chic and a great way to repurpose all those bags you received when holiday shopping.

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