Bartering: The new shopping experience

Thousands of years ago, with no currency systems, bartering was the only way to distribute and receive goods. This ancient method can still be used today.  Plan a swap with family and friends! Several friends and I gathered unwanted clothing, furniture, and books. We picked through the offerings and took what we needed. What was left over was sold in a yard sale.  All of us were very happy with the outcome of the swap.  It allowed us to recycle unwanted items and to receive much needed items for free. 

Tips:

• Attendees can post a list of wanted items prior to the event.
• Throw in all of those dusty items that you never use.
• Don't toss out "junk", put it in the swap. Someone might be able to use it. (For example, one of my friends was collecting empty cereal boxes for a project.)
• Get creative. An old painting could be transformed into a fresh canvas with a little whitewash.  A beat-up table can be painted back to life.
• Consider swapping services as well.  For example, landscaping, house cleaning, or babysitting.

One man's trash is another man's treasure.  Swaps are a great way to recycle unwanted items and get needed items for free.

This was an lovely older gentleman trying to bargain with us for most of our things.

 I became a proud owner of this tea set in exchange for an old jewelry box that I owned!

The Frugal Fashionista

Because frugal doesn't mean frumpy...

Fashionista Fridays....a celebration of truly living green.  Buying second hand is the "greenest" way to shop, but this doesn't mean that your clothing will be any less fashionable.

This little outfit is just perfect for a summer picnic.  Just add cucumber sandwiches, corn on the cob, and watermelon and you have a date! 

American Eagle shirt- $0.99 from Goodwill. 
Mossimo shorts-$1.00 yardsale. 
Total cost of outfit- $1.99

Keep yourself looking chic on the cheap.  Buy second hand, don't get caught up in name brands, and find new ways to wear classic styles.