I love this so much. I feel that internet influencer culture is surrounded by purchasing things all of the time and it is so wasteful in multiple ways. As a person in grad school and someone who grew up in an average household, it just isn’t feasible to go shopping every few weeks or months. I had found myself thinking that it was normal to buy things on a whim often. My wallet and the environment can not handle it! We need more people like you on the internet!
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
I dont mean to be so offtopic but does any of you know a way to get back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb forgot my password. I would love any tips you can give me
As a Swede it baffels me that Americans leave there house, buy starbucks, and go back home. Here people only go to coffee shops if they are having their coffee there or they are on their way somewhere. everyone has a coffeemaker and if you are at home you make coffee at home.
American here. I’ve never bought Starbucks and then gone back home. Only bought it if I was on the way somewhere or wanted to meet someone in there to chat.
You should come to visit. It is a wild place. I love Sweden, but our cultures are so different. The scale of things, even in small cities like Seattle, is so huge compared to anything in the eurozone. I don't mean like how many people. Clearly, London or Rome are much bigger, but we can drive for hours and hours and never get to the next major city. It's just a different place, and we have a friendly outgoing culture but are also very isolated. Just worth checking out. Come to Seattle in mid-July-early Oct. The good news is people here are very friendly, so if you don't mind everyone asking where you are from and then not knowing where that is, you will have a wonderful time talking. Not that talking to strangers is always a Scandinavian preference. lol
New Yorker here, by buying my coffee and breakfast on my way to work I have almost an extra hour by not preparing coffee/breakfast and washing dishes. I rather spend money than spend time
Where did you get your reusable cotton rounds from? I’ve been meaning to try them out, but I don’t know what brand or where I should buy them from and how do you properly clean them? By using Basic Laundry detergent? Does it make your skin break out?
@@kimmieyoyo I just got mine from amazon and throw them in with my laundry once a week. Mine comes with a little bag so they dont go everywhere in your washing machine!
When I travel, I try to find a souvenir that is made where I am traveling and that I can use/wear regularly. My raincoat from Stockholm is still going strong and every time I put it on it brings back so many memories.
Amy V. I love buying clothing as souvenirs on trips! Having an item that you use/wear regularly that can remind you of the trip/the place every time you use it makes so much more sense to me than just buying random trinkets that will collect dust.
I bought my most used sweatshirt/jacket from germany 8 years ago. Idk if it was made there because I got it from a european chain store (so at least I know its not a us brand), but I still have it and use it and it always reminds me of that trip. Next time I travel to another country, I'll look for something that I know was made in the country. This is a great idea!
I made the decision a couple years ago to be more environmentally conscious and to be more thoughtful about what I was purchasing. Not only does it save me a ton of money, but I’m also helping the planet! I would never go back 😊❤️ yay for saving the earth!
Lisa Harris it’s buying clothes that you don’t need, or won’t wear, just because they’re on sale. I shop on sale too, but I’m trying to only buy stuff I’ll actually wear
Kinda similar to this. I usually have something I've had on my wish list for a couple of months in my cart and if it's on a huge price cut or sale and I still want it then I get it 😁 but not going to sales just to go unless I think it'll have something I've had my eyes on fora while.
Your list of items for the most part represent your own maturation, many of the things we sought to validate ourselves were a sort of cult ritual, of wanting to be included in the "in group". As we grow and mature many of the cultural standards that we clung to in our youth (and early adulthood) no longer matter or apply to the person we have become, we should all strive for change, to really learn what gives us true happiness is a lifelong pursuit. Can't wait for the podcast!
I love your whole bit about the art because I can totally relate. There's something really special about decking your walls with pieces that really resonate with you. Makes a house (or apartment) really feel like a home and not a curated-for-a-catalog living space.
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
Before quarantine I use to browse Marshall’s all the time and I would always walk out with something. Now that I can’t do that I have no want to continue that habit when I have the option. I also use to buy really cheap furniture and sometimes it lasts a super long time. But I bought a cheap couch, it was super cute and my style and it is so uncomfortable. I now save up for really nice pieces that will last a lifetime! Great video Monica!
I gave up coffee last July and it has honestly changed my life. I commuted into the city for school this last year and not purchasing a coffee every morning saved me so much money!
I feel you on the jewelry, I have a lot of piercings and I love jewelry but I stopped buying costume jewelry. Only solid gold. Plastic pieces for 10$ or even companies charging 80$ for a piece of gold plated jewelry is just 🙄 ugh. Why did I waste all that money.
i've always thought shaving cream was pointless especially in the smaller cans, I swear I end up using a lot and by a couple uses its gone when a small amount of body wash works just as good
We need more videos like this. So many videos are telling us to buy buy buy, and most of it is things we don't need. I've been widdling down my budget for a while now. I'd like to be more of a minimalist. I seriously appreciate you sharing what you've been doing!
I love your thoughts on meaningful art. I've fallen into the "fast art" mass prints before and it does lose meaning... recently got my first commissioned piece ordered. It's giving me such joy.
I FEEL YOU ON BUYING ART THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU! I'm Punjabi Sikh and we have sososo many talented artists in our community who are able to depict our stories, religion, culture, homeland, etc soso beautifully that it tugs at my heart strings.
Unfortunately composting is not widely available to most people. Living in an apartment or even in a house with no real yard, in a city that doesnt offer compost there's not very many options. I hate throwing food waste in the trash (even peels and stuff life that), but its really the only thing to do.
Hi Monica! About the wool and cashemire sweaters. I own alot of them because they keep me real warm in my cold climate. I wash them in my laundry machine on "delicates" or "wool" (depending which option your machine has) and it works wonders. Let them air dry flat (absolutly not in the dryer!!!) and they come out clean and not damaged! :) I have jumpers that are years old and have washed hundreds of times and they look new
You don’t have to dry clean your sweaters. I hand wash all of my sweaters. Or if you put it in a laundry bag that’s smallish you can sometimes get away with putting it in the washing mashing. But just a little bit of water in a bucket and wash it around maybe let it soak for a little bit empty the water and fill with fresh water to rinse then lay flat to dry. I usually put it on a towel. And if you wear something under your sweaters you really don’t need to wash them every time.
Just a side note... your hair looks sooo good! Also can’t wait to listen to the podcast! HHHH YAYY!! I'm so excited yall are doing a podcast!! youa re so pretty stunning queen love take vcare yourself
Glad to see you finally have joined adulthood! I have changed so much from my early 20s. There are a lot things I no longer purchase at all. I buy about $200 of clothes a year because I realized I really don't cycle through a whole lot of my wardrobe since I have a uniform for work. I recently have stopped buying anything but food and hygiene products. I tend to maybe spend $50-100 every other month on some slush things.
I agree on the shaving cream! I use my bar soap and just lather up and shave. Boom. I agree about the high maintenance clothes for dry cleaning. I stopped shopping at Anthropologie because of this. Too much work and extra money to take care of
Anthropologie employee here! Both with Anthro clothes and my other clothes, I rarely listen to the wash instructions, especially for regular pieces that say need to be dry cleaned. I just wash things however the fabric generally should be washed ex. jeans warm or cold water and like dry. As long as you care for everything properly, you definitely don’t need to dry clean!
Thank you for name dropping Jennifer Ament, it started me down a rabbit hole looking at her work. I'm north of Seattle in the 'burbs and I love supporting locat artists!
Monica nice upload, you are evolving and that is a lifelong journey. If you look back at the videos of you when you first started your You Tube Channel, your change was gradual over each month and each year. And as a woman you will continue to change in thought, deed and intent. No one could tell you in the past that you would or should make these changes, you, as part of natural human growth had to arrive at this point on your own; as part of the learning and personal growth that all people will experience. Some fight change and live life in the Rapids, almost drowning. Some grasp the need for change and thereby growth, and thrive with the daily challenges life presents. Monica you have changed and you should be proud of the you, in this moment.
I've been really enjoying yours and shelbys videos lately, both new and old. The old videos where you guys are traveling together, shelbys room makeover, your airstream renovation.. Can't wait for the podcast to come out, and I'm usually not a podcast type of person!
I’ve been watching your videos for more than 3 years and I’m really glad to witness you mature and become a conscious shopper. Keep it up and can’t wait for your first podcast episode ✌🏼
Yes the art! My husband and I just had this conversation. We don't care for most mainstream art and only put up things that bring us joy: various art from small artists that we love (usually geeky), photos, etc. Why put something on your wall that you have to look at every day that doesn't make you happy? Now if mainstream art makes you happy then go for it!! I LOVE books, but even I MariKondo'd a bunch because they were either gifts or ones I'd never read again. I have a bookcase of my favorites or ones I'm holding onto for my son when he's older, but I get it. Now I rent audio and ebooks from the library system! Another route for you. Plus it's free!
I have been watching ( and growing up ) with you since your days of taking classes at your local cc while in high school. It's crazy to see how much you have grown and changed and how much I have alongside you. Anyways, keep going what you're doing Monica! You are so intelligent, thoughtful and interesting!!
i agree with everything but the christmas tree.... you broke my heart lmaoooooo there are really awesome options now that you have a home with storage and roommates
honestly probably one of my favorite videos you've made. you're super down to earth been watching damn near since the beginning and it's super cool to watch you grow into your own and some were also super helpful. I've been doing most of those to save money anyway and just out of trying to be more minimal and not give in to pure want but so good. I'm excited about the podcast and the van. Please more van vlogs for updates
I actually love this so much. Instead of throwing in our face a bunch of products, you are realistic about it. With COVID I haven’t been to target in 2 months and I realized I don’t need to go every week and spend money for no reason!!! Great content I loved this so much!
I agree with you on the art. I guess it’s from growing up in Portland and going to Saturday Market so I’m just used to seeing artists/artisans make things and sell their creations at booths or in local galleries, christmas bazaars and also going to the Gathering of the Guilds every year (except this year, should’ve been last weekend I think). Handmade stuff is just so much more interesting and has a story.
cashmire is the only point that i disagree with. its SUPER lightweight and its very efficient to me (keeps you max amount of warm with min amount of material), so its so much easier to travel with.
I hand wash all my wool and cashmere. Then just roll up in a towel to soak the water and hang dry. You just let it soak in woolite or another wool or cashmere detergent for a few min. That's it. Maybe agitate it a bit but it's not so bad! you can refresh it by just hanging it in the sun for a few hours or alternatively I put it in the freezer for one night then hang out till it gets back to normal temperature. Wool and cashmere really only need to be washed once a season and stain treated if needed. You can also use the freezer trick for jeans. Look up how the levis guy says to maintain / care for jeans in best condition.
100% Cashmere is so incredibly soft - softer than a persian kitten! And cozy warm. Perfect for damp,chilly Seattle weather. And very easy to maintain, really. Just soak in room temperature water with a little woolwash soap for at least 20 minutes. Then rinse. Next squeeze out excess water gently. Lay garment out on a clean towel, roll it up in the towel, & apply pressure then lay flat to dry. Takes hardly any time. Wool ( Cashmere, Merino, Mohair, etc) only felts/shrinks with hot water + agitation.
I would never take cashmere to a dry cleaners, wash it by hand in cool water and roll up in a towel and squeeze the water out after rinsing, dry on a dry towel.. It will be soft and beautiful!!!
Would highly recommend the website "good on you" you can search most brands and it will tell you how ethical and sustainable the brand is! I'm so glad you're covering these topics as a popular UA-camr, you're being an amazing role model. ❤️
Love this video! I think this is such a common realization people go through in their early 20s, I’m going through it right now and I’m glad you relate!!
You absolutely do not have to dry clean wool! Just wash them with a cold temperature setting on your machine! Also wool is practically "self cleaning", so you do not have to wash them as often as synthetic fabrics or cotton. Wool is sooo good for the winter!!
This was such a great idea, I like how you followed in depth about the reasoning behind why you no longer make those purchases because a couple of them even I was like YOU’RE SO RIGHT !! Other people should take the time themselves to realize what they could and should go without.
I never go to the dry cleaners either. The dry clean labels just mean 'hand wash' or 'delicate cycle' to me. Just get a tub, fill with water and wool-detergent (use dishwasher detergent if there are oil stains); soak the garment for five minutes or ten, then rinse out until the water is clear. Don't wring dry, let it either drip dry or you can lay it on a towel (or three), roll it up loosely to absorb the excess water, then lay flat to dry in the shade.
I have so many minimalist tendencies (I totally will be 100% someday, I can see it already lol) and I try to make sure that I don’t purchase “stuff” all the time. Clothes is something I’m becoming SUPER mindful about. Loved your insight!
Not buying stuff is so liberating but not always easy! I usually find if I can hold off for 7 days then I know at the end that 80% of the things will no longer be required. Not buying stuff is good for that honest 100% discount, no space required, no dusting/cleaning/fixing/attention needed, less clutter and a very subtle step toward appreciating things in nature that are free, like sunsets, dawns, animals and worthwhile people. We're way too much into gadgets here and they form a cage for us if we are not wary. Delaying buys is also good, laptops, TVs, phones, cameras, cars etc keep getting better month after month. You will be buying lots of stuff for your airstream though, so Monica has an outlet of purpose buying LOL.
Love that you decided to buy less useless objects in 2020 and also your idea of supporting local artists 🥰 your budget and the environment are thanking you👏
I stopped buying books too. I didn't like some of the books I bought and they've just been sitting on their shelf ever since. I got a library membership instead and finished a lot more books since then.
I’m a huge book nerd and really love the looks of a bookshelf. They truly give me joy and it’s how I decorate. How I reduce book waste is I read the book through my local library and if I like it and would read it again then I buy ex library copies on ThriftBooks for cheap.
Haha don’t dry clean those sweaters, chuck them in the wash- cold wash only, delicate setting if you’ve got one. If they’re really fine put them in a wash bag. Hang out to dry. Wool and such fabrics are so worth it but yeah I never ever hand wash or dry clean and rarely have an issue with a garment. Just keep all fabrics cold wash and hang out to dry out of the sun
Thank you so much for this! It's so easy to believe that normal everyday life involves spending SO MUCH money because of many influencers. I don't think most people can keep up that image, and its so good to hear from you that its not somethings we need to follow! As always, thanks for keeping it real with us.
Thank you for watching! Honestly less is more in life I’m learning. The most important things to me are my friends and family. I’d rather spend my money on experiences for them and myself rather than things!
"Men judge generally more by the eye than by the hand, for everyone can see and few can feel. Every one sees what you appear to be, few really know what you are." -Niccolò Machiavelli This is some leveled up self reflection... The kind that will hopefully inspire as all to let more frivolous parts of our lives go to make room for the profound stuff waiting for us.
I also stopped buying souvenirs when I travel and instead try to buy a used book in any new city I go to (because books are the one thing I allow myself to collect with few limits). I'll write the city and date when I purchased the book inside the cover, and if I have any special ticket stubs or something I want to remember, it also makes for a neat place to hold them. Obviously if you don't like reading this is not a helpful idea haha, but for anyone who does I think it's a good alternative.
I loved this video! It’s so inspiring to watch as someone who is starting to stop purchasing from companies part of the fast fashion industry. ALSO, I’ve been hoping you’d start a podcast for so long, and I am beyond excited for the first episode to come out!!!
your comments about art and random target stuff reminded me of the random boxes of target art that I STILL haven’t unpacked since I moved 2 years ago 😂 you are so right. putting that on the walls doesn’t make me feel anything at all lol
This is an awesome video, and this comment is completely unrelated but your brows look SO good?? I don’t know what different about them but I’m a fan! ✨
I hope that you find what it is you are searching for to bring contentment and calm to your life . Its a trite and well worn statement to say that designer items really dont make your life fundamentally better or give us lasting happiness , but its obviously true and you are trying to fight against doing it again . I wish you luck and I will be cheering for you to break through the barrier of trivial materialism and progress on to true happiness and contentment .
These are all are great points. One thing I’m trying to cut back is alcohol, I don’t drink a ton but I notice if there wine or beer in the fridge, now I’m bored at home I have 1 or 2 here and 1 or 2 there to watch a movie or to have with or after dinner and it’s such a trap. Don’t get fooled by the promo offers that coax you into buying wine or beer just for the sake of it.
I used to buy sooooo many pretty bras and bralettes, but I don’t wear either of them ever. I worked at VS for a while and it was so tempting to be around all of it!!
Wool doesnt have to be dry cleaned, it can be hand washed with cold water! And its very resistant to stains, so if it doesnt smell (a lot if the times you ca just air them out), you dont need to wash. I usually soak my wool sweaters in cold water every like five times i wear them, its very low maintenance, natural fibers dont get as sweaty as synthetic ones. About the vegetables, you can always freeze them yourself lol
That actually is a good point, I have an outerwear jacket made of wool that I brought to an Elton John concert. I had a few, and as I was walking back to my seat with another beer I tripped and spilled it ALL OVER my nice jacket. The next day, no stain, no smell, NO trace of the beer! It was crazy!
OMG I just saw on Shelby's channel that you guys are starting a podcast! Of course I immediately subscribed I've literally been hoping you two would start one some day, your UA-cam channels are my favorite and I've been needing a good podcast about topics I actually want to learn about!!
I do cashmere and silk blend sweaters from banana republic. I either put them in the washer on the delicate cycle and put it on a drying rack or soak it in a cool water and woolite solution and put it on the drying rack.
Wool and cashmere don't need dry clean Hun :) cold wash on low settings, no high speed at all (most washing machine has hand wash option) and air dry on towel :) Both are great for cold climate and cashmere is much lighter so better for travel :)
You do not need to dry clean wool! I have a full cedar chest of wool sweaters because I am obsessed. Just wash on delicate with cold water and line dry. I use Woolite as well, which is a special detergent for wool and since I have so much it makes sense. I have not yet ruined a sweater.
I have a bunch of swimsuits but then I moved near the water so it worked. I did declutter the ones that didn't fit anymore. I don't follow trends really so I wear my clothes for ages and try for more classic items. Daily harvest works for single people, I get having vegetable waste. I feed my rabbit and goats a lot of it.
I love this so much. I feel that internet influencer culture is surrounded by purchasing things all of the time and it is so wasteful in multiple ways. As a person in grad school and someone who grew up in an average household, it just isn’t feasible to go shopping every few weeks or months. I had found myself thinking that it was normal to buy things on a whim often. My wallet and the environment can not handle it! We need more people like you on the internet!
Thank you! I agree buying stuff just to have stuff is ridiculous and needs to stop
*grade
She’s in grad school whether you like it or not Livy
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
I dont mean to be so offtopic but does any of you know a way to get back into an Instagram account??
I was dumb forgot my password. I would love any tips you can give me
Can we just appreciate the growth journey that Monica has come?!
As a Swede it baffels me that Americans leave there house, buy starbucks, and go back home. Here people only go to coffee shops if they are having their coffee there or they are on their way somewhere. everyone has a coffeemaker and if you are at home you make coffee at home.
My Lundborg Hi, American here. You’re right. I’m trying to stop. I just made my coffee and breakfast at home and am eating as I type.
My Lundborg american here and I feel the same way.
American here. I’ve never bought Starbucks and then gone back home. Only bought it if I was on the way somewhere or wanted to meet someone in there to chat.
You should come to visit. It is a wild place. I love Sweden, but our cultures are so different. The scale of things, even in small cities like Seattle, is so huge compared to anything in the eurozone. I don't mean like how many people. Clearly, London or Rome are much bigger, but we can drive for hours and hours and never get to the next major city. It's just a different place, and we have a friendly outgoing culture but are also very isolated. Just worth checking out. Come to Seattle in mid-July-early Oct. The good news is people here are very friendly, so if you don't mind everyone asking where you are from and then not knowing where that is, you will have a wonderful time talking. Not that talking to strangers is always a Scandinavian preference. lol
New Yorker here, by buying my coffee and breakfast on my way to work I have almost an extra hour by not preparing coffee/breakfast and washing dishes. I rather spend money than spend time
I stopped buying makeup wipes and switched to reusable cotton rounds and never looked back!
Ohhhh good one!
I made this change too! Makeup wipes can also be bad for your skin, micellar water all the way
Where did you get your reusable cotton rounds from? I’ve been meaning to try them out, but I don’t know what brand or where I should buy them from and how do you properly clean them? By using Basic Laundry detergent? Does it make your skin break out?
@@kimmieyoyo I just got mine from amazon and throw them in with my laundry once a week. Mine comes with a little bag so they dont go everywhere in your washing machine!
love that! the makeup eraser from sephora is a total game changer too, and only needs water to get your makeup off!
When I travel, I try to find a souvenir that is made where I am traveling and that I can use/wear regularly. My raincoat from Stockholm is still going strong and every time I put it on it brings back so many memories.
Amy V. I love buying clothing as souvenirs on trips! Having an item that you use/wear regularly that can remind you of the trip/the place every time you use it makes so much more sense to me than just buying random trinkets that will collect dust.
I bought my most used sweatshirt/jacket from germany 8 years ago. Idk if it was made there because I got it from a european chain store (so at least I know its not a us brand), but I still have it and use it and it always reminds me of that trip. Next time I travel to another country, I'll look for something that I know was made in the country. This is a great idea!
I bought a pair of Adidas when I was in Poland back in 2017 and is still the only pair of shoes I own. I wear it for work and working out.
I made the decision a couple years ago to be more environmentally conscious and to be more thoughtful about what I was purchasing. Not only does it save me a ton of money, but I’m also helping the planet! I would never go back 😊❤️ yay for saving the earth!
yeah sure... u are saving everyone
I no longer buy clothes just because they are on sale.
Becca Joy I’m so guilty of that!
Thats when I buy them
Lisa Harris it’s buying clothes that you don’t need, or won’t wear, just because they’re on sale. I shop on sale too, but I’m trying to only buy stuff I’ll actually wear
Kinda similar to this. I usually have something I've had on my wish list for a couple of months in my cart and if it's on a huge price cut or sale and I still want it then I get it 😁 but not going to sales just to go unless I think it'll have something I've had my eyes on fora while.
Your list of items for the most part represent your own maturation, many of the things we sought to validate ourselves were a sort of cult ritual, of wanting to be included in the "in group". As we grow and mature many of the cultural standards that we clung to in our youth (and early adulthood) no longer matter or apply to the person we have become, we should all strive for change, to really learn what gives us true happiness is a lifelong pursuit. Can't wait for the podcast!
Thanks Larry, I totally agree. It was nice to reflect on all of this.
I love how you've styled your hair in this, and the colour and length looks so good on you!
I love your whole bit about the art because I can totally relate. There's something really special about decking your walls with pieces that really resonate with you. Makes a house (or apartment) really feel like a home and not a curated-for-a-catalog living space.
Yes!!
i stopped buying books when i rediscovered my library
i bought soo many books this year because i wanna have my own lil library but next year i will probably start going to library again(:
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
The opposite for me I’m buying too many books lol
Just a side note... your hair looks sooo good! Also can’t wait to listen to the podcast!
I came to comment this same thing!
Thank you!!
Heather Bertel Hahahah great minds 😂✨
Monica Church your welcome! ❤️
Have you yet told your wor,,shipers you are a large hand, long wedding finger, big feet, eye brow ridge, no hips, wide shoulder, square jaw, long humerus bone male to female T ~ R ` A ` N ~ S ~ G ~ E ` N ~D ~ E ~R?
Before quarantine I use to browse Marshall’s all the time and I would always walk out with something. Now that I can’t do that I have no want to continue that habit when I have the option.
I also use to buy really cheap furniture and sometimes it lasts a super long time. But I bought a cheap couch, it was super cute and my style and it is so uncomfortable. I now save up for really nice pieces that will last a lifetime!
Great video Monica!
I really love that mentality
Love that you found art that is special to you. And as a fellow illustrator, I felt appreciated when you gave artists a shout out. Thanks Monica!
I gave up coffee last July and it has honestly changed my life. I commuted into the city for school this last year and not purchasing a coffee every morning saved me so much money!
Sometimes your head lines up perfectly with the art frame behind you and it looks like you have tiny cute cat ears 😆
I feel you on the jewelry, I have a lot of piercings and I love jewelry but I stopped buying costume jewelry. Only solid gold. Plastic pieces for 10$ or even companies charging 80$ for a piece of gold plated jewelry is just 🙄 ugh. Why did I waste all that money.
agreed
Where do you shop for your solid gold pieces?
i've always thought shaving cream was pointless especially in the smaller cans, I swear I end up using a lot and by a couple uses its gone when a small amount of body wash works just as good
Cheap conditioner works even better!
We need more videos like this. So many videos are telling us to buy buy buy, and most of it is things we don't need. I've been widdling down my budget for a while now. I'd like to be more of a minimalist. I seriously appreciate you sharing what you've been doing!
Thank you!
I love your thoughts on meaningful art. I've fallen into the "fast art" mass prints before and it does lose meaning... recently got my first commissioned piece ordered. It's giving me such joy.
Thats so awesome!! Happy for you!
i love this - haven't seen anything like it from other youtubers and it was great to hear all your insight :)
Allison Anderson did a video on this two weeks ago
I totally agree Allie
f you're like these you'll see more in the minimalist community on YT just look up "stuff I don't buy anymore"
I FEEL YOU ON BUYING ART THAT IS MEANINGFUL TO YOU! I'm Punjabi Sikh and we have sososo many talented artists in our community who are able to depict our stories, religion, culture, homeland, etc soso beautifully that it tugs at my heart strings.
But isn’t it more wasteful buying Daily Harvest than vegetables that can be composted?
Internet Shaquille's video about daily harvest is definitely so important, lol
Unfortunately composting is not widely available to most people. Living in an apartment or even in a house with no real yard, in a city that doesnt offer compost there's not very many options. I hate throwing food waste in the trash (even peels and stuff life that), but its really the only thing to do.
I love how practical and simple you try to live even as a bigger UA-camr! Sets a good example that we don't always need the extras :)
the gold circle art is so funny because it looks so simple but is also intricate.
Hi Monica! About the wool and cashemire sweaters. I own alot of them because they keep me real warm in my cold climate. I wash them in my laundry machine on "delicates" or "wool" (depending which option your machine has) and it works wonders. Let them air dry flat (absolutly not in the dryer!!!) and they come out clean and not damaged! :) I have jumpers that are years old and have washed hundreds of times and they look new
You don’t have to dry clean your sweaters. I hand wash all of my sweaters. Or if you put it in a laundry bag that’s smallish you can sometimes get away with putting it in the washing mashing. But just a little bit of water in a bucket and wash it around maybe let it soak for a little bit empty the water and fill with fresh water to rinse then lay flat to dry. I usually put it on a towel. And if you wear something under your sweaters you really don’t need to wash them every time.
Just a side note... your hair looks sooo good! Also can’t wait to listen to the podcast! HHHH YAYY!! I'm so excited yall are doing a podcast!! youa re so pretty stunning queen love take vcare yourself
Glad to see you finally have joined adulthood! I have changed so much from my early 20s. There are a lot things I no longer purchase at all. I buy about $200 of clothes a year because I realized I really don't cycle through a whole lot of my wardrobe since I have a uniform for work. I recently have stopped buying anything but food and hygiene products. I tend to maybe spend $50-100 every other month on some slush things.
We stan de church twins
I agree on the shaving cream! I use my bar soap and just lather up and shave. Boom.
I agree about the high maintenance clothes for dry cleaning. I stopped shopping at Anthropologie because of this. Too much work and extra money to take care of
Candice Dodd I feel like some of them actually are machine washable but they say to dry clean in cases something happens to it when machine washed.
Anthropologie employee here! Both with Anthro clothes and my other clothes, I rarely listen to the wash instructions, especially for regular pieces that say need to be dry cleaned. I just wash things however the fabric generally should be washed ex. jeans warm or cold water and like dry. As long as you care for everything properly, you definitely don’t need to dry clean!
Thank you for name dropping Jennifer Ament, it started me down a rabbit hole looking at her work. I'm north of Seattle in the 'burbs and I love supporting locat artists!
Monica nice upload, you are evolving and that is a lifelong journey. If you look back at the videos of you when you first started your You Tube Channel, your change was gradual over each month and each year. And as a woman you will continue to change in thought, deed and intent. No one could tell you in the past that you would or should make these changes, you, as part of natural human growth had to arrive at this point on your own; as part of the learning and personal growth that all people will experience. Some fight change and live life in the Rapids, almost drowning. Some grasp the need for change and thereby growth, and thrive with the daily challenges life presents. Monica you have changed and you should be proud of the you, in this moment.
Thank you Judy!
I've been really enjoying yours and shelbys videos lately, both new and old.
The old videos where you guys are traveling together, shelbys room makeover, your airstream renovation..
Can't wait for the podcast to come out, and I'm usually not a podcast type of person!
Thank you!
I’ve been watching your videos for more than 3 years and I’m really glad to witness you mature and become a conscious shopper. Keep it up and can’t wait for your first podcast episode ✌🏼
Thank you!!
Monica Church 🌷
I hear you with not buying books - I rent my books from the library now . Nice way to find books to read and save money!
Yes the art! My husband and I just had this conversation. We don't care for most mainstream art and only put up things that bring us joy: various art from small artists that we love (usually geeky), photos, etc. Why put something on your wall that you have to look at every day that doesn't make you happy? Now if mainstream art makes you happy then go for it!!
I LOVE books, but even I MariKondo'd a bunch because they were either gifts or ones I'd never read again. I have a bookcase of my favorites or ones I'm holding onto for my son when he's older, but I get it. Now I rent audio and ebooks from the library system! Another route for you. Plus it's free!
I have been watching ( and growing up ) with you since your days of taking classes at your local cc while in high school. It's crazy to see how much you have grown and changed and how much I have alongside you. Anyways, keep going what you're doing Monica! You are so intelligent, thoughtful and interesting!!
Wow thank you so much for sticking around!! It means a lot, seriously thank you Michelle!
i agree with everything but the christmas tree.... you broke my heart lmaoooooo there are really awesome options now that you have a home with storage and roommates
honestly probably one of my favorite videos you've made. you're super down to earth been watching damn near since the beginning and it's super cool to watch you grow into your own and some were also super helpful. I've been doing most of those to save money anyway and just out of trying to be more minimal and not give in to pure want but so good. I'm excited about the podcast and the van. Please more van vlogs for updates
I actually love this so much. Instead of throwing in our face a bunch of products, you are realistic about it. With COVID I haven’t been to target in 2 months and I realized I don’t need to go every week and spend money for no reason!!! Great content I loved this so much!
Its inspiring to hear you say ‘I learned’ a lot, it reflects your growth ❤️
I agree with you on the art. I guess it’s from growing up in Portland and going to Saturday Market so I’m just used to seeing artists/artisans make things and sell their creations at booths or in local galleries, christmas bazaars and also going to the Gathering of the Guilds every year (except this year, should’ve been last weekend I think). Handmade stuff is just so much more interesting and has a story.
I love getting art off of Etsy! Supporting small businesses and artists. Even though I have a few mass produced pieces too.
That's great!
“Stop buying shit you dont need” Monica Church for president everyone plz 😂😂😂😂
cashmire is the only point that i disagree with. its SUPER lightweight and its very efficient to me (keeps you max amount of warm with min amount of material), so its so much easier to travel with.
Plus it doesn't need to be dry-cleaned. See ua-cam.com/video/HBwY2uifNJ8/v-deo.html
I hand wash all my wool and cashmere. Then just roll up in a towel to soak the water and hang dry. You just let it soak in woolite or another wool or cashmere detergent for a few min. That's it. Maybe agitate it a bit but it's not so bad! you can refresh it by just hanging it in the sun for a few hours or alternatively I put it in the freezer for one night then hang out till it gets back to normal temperature. Wool and cashmere really only need to be washed once a season and stain treated if needed. You can also use the freezer trick for jeans. Look up how the levis guy says to maintain / care for jeans in best condition.
100% Cashmere is so incredibly soft - softer than a persian kitten! And cozy warm. Perfect for damp,chilly Seattle weather. And very easy to maintain, really. Just soak in room temperature water with a little woolwash soap for at least 20 minutes. Then rinse. Next squeeze out excess water gently. Lay garment out on a clean towel, roll it up in the towel, & apply pressure then lay flat to dry. Takes hardly any time. Wool ( Cashmere, Merino, Mohair, etc) only felts/shrinks with hot water + agitation.
Thanks for supporting local artists. We appreciate it!!
I would never take cashmere to a dry cleaners, wash it by hand in cool water and roll up in a towel and squeeze the water out after rinsing, dry on a dry towel.. It will be soft and beautiful!!!
Would highly recommend the website "good on you" you can search most brands and it will tell you how ethical and sustainable the brand is! I'm so glad you're covering these topics as a popular UA-camr, you're being an amazing role model. ❤️
AMAZING, THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCE MONICA, YOU'RE RIGHT SO MANY THINGS WE JUST BUY FOR NO REASON.
Glad you guys are launching a podcast because I can’t get enough of your videos!
Thank you, we are really excited!
Love this video! I think this is such a common realization people go through in their early 20s, I’m going through it right now and I’m glad you relate!!
You absolutely do not have to dry clean wool! Just wash them with a cold temperature setting on your machine! Also wool is practically "self cleaning", so you do not have to wash them as often as synthetic fabrics or cotton. Wool is sooo good for the winter!!
I fully agree with the stores like H & M and Forever 21 etc, i feel Fashion Nova is one as well.
I love how honest you are. By far the most genuine youtuber
Dont apologize for loving art. I love Amira Rahim's work. It's colorful and I love color so it works for me.
This was such a great idea, I like how you followed in depth about the reasoning behind why you no longer make those purchases because a couple of them even I was like YOU’RE SO RIGHT !!
Other people should take the time themselves to realize what they could and should go without.
Thank you!
I never go to the dry cleaners either. The dry clean labels just mean 'hand wash' or 'delicate cycle' to me. Just get a tub, fill with water and wool-detergent (use dishwasher detergent if there are oil stains); soak the garment for five minutes or ten, then rinse out until the water is clear. Don't wring dry, let it either drip dry or you can lay it on a towel (or three), roll it up loosely to absorb the excess water, then lay flat to dry in the shade.
Got it! Still have never gotten and honestly not planning it!
I have so many minimalist tendencies (I totally will be 100% someday, I can see it already lol) and I try to make sure that I don’t purchase “stuff” all the time. Clothes is something I’m becoming SUPER mindful about. Loved your insight!
Dryel is a good way to refresh (some) dry-clean only fabrics at home!! You just use it in your own dryer. :)
Thank you for sharing and subscribing to the podcast! Some of you and your sister's youtube videos have inspired me to start my own blog/podcast.
Not buying stuff is so liberating but not always easy! I usually find if I can hold off for 7 days then I know at the end that 80% of the things will no longer be required.
Not buying stuff is good for that honest 100% discount, no space required, no dusting/cleaning/fixing/attention needed, less clutter and a very subtle step toward appreciating things in nature that are free, like sunsets, dawns, animals and worthwhile people. We're way too much into gadgets here and they form a cage for us if we are not wary.
Delaying buys is also good, laptops, TVs, phones, cameras, cars etc keep getting better month after month.
You will be buying lots of stuff for your airstream though, so Monica has an outlet of purpose buying LOL.
I listen to podcasts every day so I’m so excited you and Shelby are making one! Subscribed :)
Thank you so much!
I can’t pinpoint what’s different about your brows but I’m diggin em they look nice
Love that you decided to buy less useless objects in 2020 and also your idea of supporting local artists 🥰 your budget and the environment are thanking you👏
I stopped buying books too. I didn't like some of the books I bought and they've just been sitting on their shelf ever since. I got a library membership instead and finished a lot more books since then.
I’m a huge book nerd and really love the looks of a bookshelf. They truly give me joy and it’s how I decorate. How I reduce book waste is I read the book through my local library and if I like it and would read it again then I buy ex library copies on ThriftBooks for cheap.
Haha don’t dry clean those sweaters, chuck them in the wash- cold wash only, delicate setting if you’ve got one. If they’re really fine put them in a wash bag. Hang out to dry. Wool and such fabrics are so worth it but yeah I never ever hand wash or dry clean and rarely have an issue with a garment. Just keep all fabrics cold wash and hang out to dry out of the sun
Already subbed when Shelby made the announcement, but super excited to see what you sisters will be talking about! :)
Just subscribed to the podcast and listened to the trailer! Really looking forward to listening, Monica!
Love this! Especially about the health/skincare stuff- I feel like all of it is so overpriced! Can't wait to see the Airstream update!
Thank you so much for this! It's so easy to believe that normal everyday life involves spending SO MUCH money because of many influencers. I don't think most people can keep up that image, and its so good to hear from you that its not somethings we need to follow! As always, thanks for keeping it real with us.
Thank you for watching! Honestly less is more in life I’m learning. The most important things to me are my friends and family. I’d rather spend my money on experiences for them and myself rather than things!
Monica Church my husband and I have said that for so long! Our money is much better spent on making memories than on things that don’t last.
Love this!!! I’m so sick of the wasteful consumer culture lots of people encourage 🙌🏻
Subscribed to the podcast!! I'm excited to listen :)
"Men judge generally more by the eye than by the hand, for everyone can see and few can feel. Every one sees what you appear to be, few really know what you are." -Niccolò Machiavelli
This is some leveled up self reflection... The kind that will hopefully inspire as all to let more frivolous parts of our lives go to make room for the profound stuff waiting for us.
I also stopped buying souvenirs when I travel and instead try to buy a used book in any new city I go to (because books are the one thing I allow myself to collect with few limits). I'll write the city and date when I purchased the book inside the cover, and if I have any special ticket stubs or something I want to remember, it also makes for a neat place to hold them. Obviously if you don't like reading this is not a helpful idea haha, but for anyone who does I think it's a good alternative.
I loved this video! It’s so inspiring to watch as someone who is starting to stop purchasing from companies part of the fast fashion industry. ALSO, I’ve been hoping you’d start a podcast for so long, and I am beyond excited for the first episode to come out!!!
Thank you!
your comments about art and random target stuff reminded me of the random boxes of target art that I STILL haven’t unpacked since I moved 2 years ago 😂 you are so right. putting that on the walls doesn’t make me feel anything at all lol
This is an awesome video, and this comment is completely unrelated but your brows look SO good?? I don’t know what different about them but I’m a fan! ✨
For real random Target purchases are the dumbest shit! It's great when people realize this asap.
I hope that you find what it is you are searching for to bring contentment and calm to your life . Its a trite and well worn statement to say that designer items really dont make your life fundamentally better or give us lasting happiness , but its obviously true and you are trying to fight against doing it again . I wish you luck and I will be cheering for you to break through the barrier of trivial materialism and progress on to true happiness and contentment .
So excited to listen to the podcast! And get some advice especially because I just graduated college!!
Thank you!!
im obsessed with the content you and your sister put out. Excited for your podcast!
Thank you!
These are all are great points. One thing I’m trying to cut back is alcohol, I don’t drink a ton but I notice if there wine or beer in the fridge, now I’m bored at home I have 1 or 2 here and 1 or 2 there to watch a movie or to have with or after dinner and it’s such a trap. Don’t get fooled by the promo offers that coax you into buying wine or beer just for the sake of it.
I used to buy sooooo many pretty bras and bralettes, but I don’t wear either of them ever. I worked at VS for a while and it was so tempting to be around all of it!!
I don’t buy paper towels! We were going through them so quickly, and it was just such a waste of money. Gave them up!
I absolutely LOVE how real and honest you are in this!!
Thank you!
Wool doesnt have to be dry cleaned, it can be hand washed with cold water! And its very resistant to stains, so if it doesnt smell (a lot if the times you ca just air them out), you dont need to wash. I usually soak my wool sweaters in cold water every like five times i wear them, its very low maintenance, natural fibers dont get as sweaty as synthetic ones.
About the vegetables, you can always freeze them yourself lol
That actually is a good point, I have an outerwear jacket made of wool that I brought to an Elton John concert. I had a few, and as I was walking back to my seat with another beer I tripped and spilled it ALL OVER my nice jacket. The next day, no stain, no smell, NO trace of the beer! It was crazy!
Would love to see a video of you reacting to your old videos, particularly in relation to this topic!
Great idea!
I love yours and Shelbys videos!! Their always so unique and interesting! Can’t wait for the podcast, already subscribed!
OMG I just saw on Shelby's channel that you guys are starting a podcast! Of course I immediately subscribed I've literally been hoping you two would start one some day, your UA-cam channels are my favorite and I've been needing a good podcast about topics I actually want to learn about!!
I’m loving the brows....like really loving...keep doing that 🤗
Ohh thank you! Yes I did them bolder this day and was kind of unsure. I think I'm going to keep trying it though!
"Dirty bougie sweater pile" took me out. 😂😂
I do cashmere and silk blend sweaters from banana republic. I either put them in the washer on the delicate cycle and put it on a drying rack or soak it in a cool water and woolite solution and put it on the drying rack.
Wool and cashmere don't need dry clean Hun :) cold wash on low settings, no high speed at all (most washing machine has hand wash option) and air dry on towel :) Both are great for cold climate and cashmere is much lighter so better for travel :)
lmao the bread pic with the cat 😂
You do not need to dry clean wool! I have a full cedar chest of wool sweaters because I am obsessed. Just wash on delicate with cold water and line dry. I use Woolite as well, which is a special detergent for wool and since I have so much it makes sense. I have not yet ruined a sweater.
I have a bunch of swimsuits but then I moved near the water so it worked. I did declutter the ones that didn't fit anymore. I don't follow trends really so I wear my clothes for ages and try for more classic items.
Daily harvest works for single people, I get having vegetable waste. I feed my rabbit and goats a lot of it.