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ecofabulous

This Group Gift is on (Clean Burning) Fire!

by inlu blog patrol on August 8, 2011

Group Gift Ideas…

The team at ecofabulous found a gem of a group gift with this portable fireplace and portable lamps. I can truly say this is one of the coolest gifts we’ve seen yet! It’s an unbelievably hip, trance-inducing gift for a couple or perhaps parents around the holidays? It might not be tempting now, since it’s still August BUT with the fall months just ahead (I know, believe it or not, the cool weather will arrive!) it’s nice to have something spectacular in mind.

“BrasaFire’s collection of elegant ventless fires burn using denatured alcohol (or bioethanol), a renewable source of energy derived from agricultural products like sugar, potatoes, corn and beetroot. With a variety of sleek stainless steel, high temperature ceramic and glass vessels sure to ignite your inner design sense, sustainability isn’t sacrificed for style. The low level of emissions, just steam and a small amount of CO2 (no smoke or other harmful emissions) means that this classy form of entertainment is as easy on the hostess as it is on the planet. Aside from a variety of portable fireplaces ($415-$625) like the Avani and Camden the , BrasaFire portable fire lamps will bring heat, light and class to any surrounding ($165-265).”

I know a couple getting hitched next spring and this is a top contender. I’m thinking of asking a handful of friends to pitch in and get this together! They’ll ALL love it.

Check out OUR previous post featuring recycled firepits by John Unger!

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Splurge v Steal: Either Way, Jewelry Makes a Stunning Group Gift (via ecofabulous)

by inlu blog patrol on August 4, 2011

Jewelry. Aaah. Fabulous, sparkly…jewelry.  You can’t go wrong with unique adornments, now can you? Choose something spectacular for that special someone- the options are ever-changing, especially with up-cycled, re-fabricated jewelry. No two pieces are exactly the same! Ecofabulous lined up a bunch of great ideas, like:

1. Chandelier Earrings

Rock what’s right…now. And feel great because no matter your pals’ budget, these chandelier earrings are simply stunning. The ethically sourced diamonds by Jennifer Dawes jewelry or a lower budget but just as bold, double crystal earrings by Amanda Pearl,  are the perfect choice for the new bride (from the brides maids perhaps?) or anyone celebrating in style.

2. Dinosaur – Recycled Gold & / or Silver


This is a unique gift for someone with a wild side! It’s more fun than a fossil and flashier than a prehistoric pendant. It’s recycled…and that means it’s getting a new lease on life, which is more than we can say for those dinosaurs…right?  Both the t-rex ($70) and brontosaurus (gold, $345; silver, $70) are as ecofabulous says, “dino-mite!”

3. Recycled Gold via AmaraGold

“AmaraGold’s simple and classic bangles ($125+)were built for layering, their cascading waterfall necklaces (shown-$650) is an easy way to dress up casual outfits. We are also fans of their durable rope rings ($225) and chunky hoop earrings ($80+).” Ditto, agreed…exactly what they said.

4. The Andean Collection

This artisan-meets-urban jewelry line is made of “natural, sustainably harvested materials via a very low energy process” and the line was founded “with the focus of bringing sustainable change to Ecuadorian communities.” This is a personal Inlu blog lady favorite….LOVE the orange/red necklace.

5. Clyde’s Rebirth

Clyde’s Rebirth is a line of jewelry made of entirely vintage and found materials (light bulbs, rocks, fabrics and more).  The company profile reads:

Take 2 parts crazy cat lady,
3 parts dreamer,
A dash of limited math skills,
Mix until frothy.

I guess that’s all that needs to be said!

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WOW Wednesday: Seven Sublime Group Gifts for The Home (via ecofabulous)

by inlu blog patrol on August 3, 2011

Housewarming Ideas Via….

Know anyone ready to receive a housewarming gift? Perhaps it’s a newlywed couple. A college student setting off to face an empty dorm? Maybe your parents are downsizing. Who knows, it could be a neighbor moving away and you want to send them off in style. No matter who is settling where, a group gift is a spectacular way to say, ‘welcome home’.

Today, we’ve found some seriously cool housewarming gifts over @ ecofabulous that would make new homeowners squeal with delight! Whether it’s you + a few pals pitching in to welcome a new neighbor (smaller budget), or a blockparty going off the charts for a massive housewarming effort (bigger  bucket), these will make the recipient feel warm and fuzzy…and ready to kick their feet up and relax.

1. Recycled Party Pitcher

Why not say “welcome to the neighborhood!” with this recycled party pitcher? It’s perfect for the housewarming BBQ, ladies night and summertime lemonade. This cork-topper keeps it sealed and the recycled glass drink dispenser from West Elm ($59) is a sure winner.

2. Recycled Tire Rug

If the new homeowners HAPPEN to like biking, this is the perfect gift! It’s a rug made from recycled tires (I know, right??). “The rubber material is super easy to clean (light vacuum or wash with water and eco-friendly soap) and allows you to be supporting the bike culture even when you’re not cruising around on two-wheels.” For info on pricing and dealers in your area, click here.

3. Organic Ink Table Setting, Napkins & Apron

With every new home comes a variety of blank canvases, like whitewashed walls, undressed windows and finally-cleared-off tables. If you’re looking to give something that will make a statement and create a look, check out Katherine Lee’s aprons, napkins, table runners, tea towels, pillow shams, and others like, red arrow organic cotton cafe apron ($60), chevron print organic tea towels ($18), and mermaid print napkins ($30).

4.  Lighting!

Ecofabulous has a few unique, eco friendly lighting suggestions, like LightenUp Designs lamps made from natural clay and homemade non-toxic glaze and these gold splattered “sterling” candle sticks ($175 for 2). Brilliant!

5. Hammock…Made from Seatbelts?

Buckle up for this group gift idea: the TING Sling ($744). There’s nothing much to say except have a look and relaaaax… A bit outta budget? There are pillows to make any outdoor space “click” (sorry for the bad puns…it’s hot out…).

6. Bloom Organic Cotton Duvet from Wildflower Organics

This duvet will welcome anyone to stay in bed and snuggle on a lazy Sunday morning. Home-sweet-home.

7. VerTerra Dinnerware

“Given that Americans throw out nearly 100 billion plastic, paper and styrofoam plates and cups each year–most of which are made from petroleum-based plastics, hazardous foam or chlorine-bleached paper–isn’t it time we embrace the sustainable credo that waste equals food?” WE say heck yes, and pass it along (or at least deliver  tray of welcome cupcakes on a biodegradable platter) ! Check out these lovely, light-weight biodegradable collection of plates, bowls, cups and platters. So worth it.

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10 Simple Green Group Gift Ideas for Preschoolers, Toddlers & Babies (Say that 3x Fast) – Inspired by ecofabulous

by inlu blog patrol on August 2, 2011

Photo Credit: Joanna Puza Photography

Kids! Our family has three of them (six combined from the co-founders). They rack up  a lot of birthdays (and baby showers, before they arrive). And, likewise, we attend baby showers, toddler birthdays and preschool parties, all with a gift in hand. Not that we don’t love gifts (and we LOVE giving them), but you can easily spend $5 on a bag to put it in + tissue paper + cards, several times a month (you get the point). What we’re all about at Inlu is simplifying by making group gifting easy for any gift out there, and with less run-around for everyone (and less mess on the planet).

So, in our search for cool gift ideas, we’ve peeked around ecofabulous for some simple group gift ideas that would be both a) awesome as a group gift for the youngest generation and b) feel-good to contribute to as a participant in a group gift! So, if you have kids or might be expecting one soon, check out these group gift ideas:

ONE: Taika Walker-Bike:
These kid cruisin wheels feature “FSC certified wood, finished with water-based low VOC paints and stains, Taika “walker-bikes”($175 AUS) will have your young one scootin’ around safely and sustainably.”

TWO: Wonderworld Eco-Friendly Wooden Doll House:

“Not only does this house teach your little one key environmental themes (recycling, solar power, rainwater collection), but it’s made of only renewably sourced rubber-wood and non-toxic paint ($149).”

THREE: Eco sheepskin blanket from Nature Baby

Bye Bye synthetic blankies. This natural woolly woobie is an excellent group gift for a new arrival or a toddler who likes to snuggle. “Unlike the conventional sheepskins on the market that are tanned with hazardous chemicals that can off-gas, Nature Baby hand-processes without any toxic materials so you can rest assured your child’s skin won’t be exposed to anything but super soft fibers.” ($99)

FOUR: Hatchling Tees and Onesies from OrganicEcho.com

What Grandma or Grandpa wouldn’t want to pitch in for a new TEE collection that is “made in the USA using super soft organic cotton with azo free dyes and non-toxic inks.” ($26/each, $104 for 4)

FIVE: Recycled Milk Jug Toys

Wow- this is radical. Jumpstart healthy play with recycled milk carton toys! You can collect for one or an entire basket full of smart, sustainable toys. AND, in lieu of the landfill, you can  recycle 100% of the minimal  packaging. Then, you can continue the happy-cycle when you hand them down the line…:) Green Toys, price varies.

SIX: Serena & Lily Bedset

The thing about babies? They require a place to sleep once they arrive! What’s better than an eco-friendly, 100% organic cotton collection to place that bundle of sweet joy? Nothing, except when they fall asleep in your arms. (Sigh…babies are awesome).

SEVEN: Sustainable Pillows from Jaya Loves Tekeko

Well, these are cuddly cool. “Made with organic bamboo and organic cotton, the pillows ($62) are stuffed with kapok fiber – a fluffy filling that is even lighter than down and is naturally resistant to dust mites. With a removable (and thus washable!) cover printed with non-toxic water-based inks,” these are safe and super fabulous.

EIGHT: Green Gift Basket of Goodies

Upon browsing, we saw lots of smaller ticket items that, in combination would make kickin’ group gift basket. Check out the baby care page @ecofabulous for a fantastic assortment of quality, nontoxic lotions potions and baby-skin smoothers.

NINE: Calming Baby Gift Set from Babo Botanicals

“Made in up-state New York, Babo Botanicals’ line of bath products for newborns (such as the Lavender Meadowsweet gift set $45) is made from certified organic ingredients…with anti-oxidants and vitamins to allow for superior protection and care.” There are several gift sets in different price ranges here.

TEN: Hushamok Organic Baby Hammock

“A lightweight aluminum stand and 100% organic cotton baby hammock come together to form a modern day alternative to the traditional bassinet ($409). The swinging and rocking motion will soothe young ones right to sleep (which means more snooze time for you too!).”

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Back to School…Top Five Ecofabulous Techy Gift Ideas

by inlu blog patrol on August 1, 2011

Staying up to date with the latest, greatest technology provides us with new, faster, and easier ways to communicate, create and have fun. Especially when it comes to back to school- we have to gather the gadgets to stay in the loop (where did the old fashioned books go??). The only bummer? This technology-driven upgrade cycle is typically very wasteful.  Inlu is all about great gadgets, especially as a group gift and one major, core ideas behind Inlu is….(drumrolll….) reducing waste!

In that frame of mind, I was heartened to discover some clever tech-oriented accessories over at Ecofabulous. These products accentuate my favorite tech gadgets with a minimal environmental impact.

1. Vers Shellcase for iPad

Check out the latest eco-friendly protector for your iPad: the Vers sustainable wood Shellcase. These cases are very attractive and functional. Made of sustainably sourced cherry, walnut or bamboo (Vers plants 100 trees through the Arbor Day Foundation for every tree used in their wood sound systems and accessories).

$79.99

2. Eton Portable Soulra iPod Sound System
Five hours of solar charge time produces eight hours of rockin’ sound, plus the built-in handles mean this radio if the perfect picnic companion ($300).

$300

3. Vers 1E Sound Isolation Earphones
Even Steve Jobs must be getting tired of those ubiquitous (and rather uncomfortable) iPod / iPhone headphones. Consider an upgrade to the Vers 1E, sound isolation earphones with a microphone and a touch of sustainable wood or bamboo.

$49

4. Eco-Friendly Messenger Bags by F. Rock
Rock has crafted remarkably streamlined yet classic bags made 100% from reclaimed fabrics and leathers from top-brand menswear industry factory scraps. Perfect to protect the latest MacBook Air!

5. eBay Instant Sale
Finally, check out eBay Instant Sale, a program aimed at helping eBay users get rid of their old electronics in an environmentally responsible way, and make money in the process. Not a gift per se, but a very useful service.

This blog was thoughtfully crafted by our friend and trusted techie, Ed Shepard. Inlu would like to say “thank you” for writing this post!

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