Finding a way to turn your passion into profit is the dream for many. And if you love crafting then it can be a reality! In this article, we will explore 10 money-making crafts and provide you with some tips on how to get started. You truly can turn that hobby into a hustle.

Handmade Jewelry

If you have an eye for design and love working with beads, gemstones, or metals, then creating handmade jewelry might be the perfect craft for you. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets are all hot items. And online marketplaces like Etsy enable you to easily reach a global audience and sell your unique creations. 

Crochet and Knitting

Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting, the versatility of crochet and knitting lets you turn your passion into not only beautiful, cozy creations but also a potential source of income. From scarves and hats to blankets and baby items, there is a wide range of products you can create and sell. If you are new to crocheting or knitting, you can get a beginner’s kit and dive right in!

Bath and Body Products

Creating and selling bath and body products is a rewarding venture. Crafting luxurious soaps, soothing bath bombs, nourishing lotions, and aromatic candles allows you to offer self-care essentials to a discerning market. Experiment with natural ingredients and enticing scents to craft unique products. Effective marketing strategies, such as building an online presence or participating in local craft fairs, can help you turn your passion into a thriving business.

Home Décor

Crafting home decor items for sale offers an opportunity to transform your creative passions into a profitable endeavor. From unique wall art and personalized signs to stylish throw pillows and elegant centerpieces, you can bring your artistic vision to life. By honing your craft, establishing a distinctive brand, and leveraging online platforms or local markets, you can share your creativity and add charm to people’s homes while generating income.

Leatherworking

Crafting leather goods for sale is a satisfying and potentially lucrative endeavor. Start by acquiring high-quality leather hides and necessary tools. From wallets and belts to bags and accessories, the options are diverse. The key to success lies in mastering techniques like cutting, stitching, and finishing. Attention to detail is crucial, as it ensures the durability and aesthetic appeal of your products. You can sell your unique leather creations through marketplaces, craft shows, or online platforms.

Candle Making

Creating and selling candles can be a rewarding venture. With a variety of scents, colors, and styles, you can cater to a diverse customer base. Begin by sourcing quality materials like wax, wicks, and fragrances. Experiment with unique combinations to develop signature scents. Packaging plays a vital role, as attractive labels and containers can enhance your product’s appeal. Harness online marketplaces or craft fairs to promote and sell your beautifully crafted candles. Once you get a customer base, you can set up a website too!

Pottery

Crafting and selling pottery offers a unique blend of artistry and functionality. Potters shape clay into a myriad of exquisite, handcrafted items, from elegant dinnerware to decorative vases. Developing skills in wheel-throwing, hand-building, and glazing is essential. Building a distinctive brand and promoting your creations at craft fairs, local markets, or through online channels can transform your pottery passion into a thriving and sustainable business.

Painting and Art

Creating and selling paintings can be a fulfilling and lucrative pursuit for artists. It allows you to express your creativity and connect with a diverse audience. From vibrant canvases to serene watercolors, your artistic style can cater to various tastes. Building an online portfolio, participating in art exhibitions, or collaborating with galleries can help you showcase your work and turn your passion into a profitable artistic career.

Woodworking

Crafting and selling woodwork items is a fulfilling and potentially lucrative endeavor. From intricately carved furniture to custom-made home accents, the possibilities are vast. Quality craftsmanship, precision, and an eye for design are essential. Mastering various woodworking techniques and finishes will set your creations apart. Building a strong brand and marketing your products at craft shows, online platforms, or local shops can help turn your woodworking hobby into a thriving business.

Printables

Selling printables on Etsy is a great way to turn your passion for crafting into profit. With a few hours of basic setup, you can start a shop, upload digital files, and earn money with little work. For all the information and tips you need for this awesome side gig, check out our article: How To Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.

How To Get Started Selling Your Crafts

Now that you have some ideas on what kinds of crafts you can sell, you need to know how to get started, Here are the essential steps to turning your passion into profit:

• Focus on honing your crafting skills, ensuring that the quality and design of your pieces stand out. Create a unique and cohesive collection that reflects your personal style or appeals to a specific niche within the market.
• Research is key; get to know your target audience. Understand their preferences, demographics, and buying behaviors. This knowledge will help you tailor your designs and marketing efforts to effectively reach your potential customers. Additionally, devise a pricing strategy that covers your costs and provides a fair profit margin.
• To establish an online presence, use social media platforms to showcase your jewelry. High-quality images, engaging captions, and consistent posting will attract followers. Consider creating a website to showcase your entire collection and provide a platform for e-commerce transactions. Websites lend credibility and a sense of professionalism to your brand.
• Leverage established e-commerce platforms like Etsy to expand your reach. These platforms offer built-in traffic and customer trust, making it easier for you to gain visibility and credibility in the marketplace. Participating in local craft fairs or markets is an excellent way to introduce your creations to a wider, more localized audience.
• Outstanding customer service is crucial. Respond promptly to inquiries, address concerns, and ensure a seamless shopping experience. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals can significantly boost your business.
• Continual improvement is essential in the ever-evolving world of handmade jewelry. Listen to customer feedback and adapt your designs and marketing strategies accordingly. Stay informed about trends and industry developments to remain competitive and innovative.
• Consider joining local craft fairs or setting up an online shop to showcase your creations, enabling you to reach a broader audience and build a loyal customer base. These platforms offer excellent opportunities for exposure and sales growth.

Closing Thoughts

Turning your passion into profit takes time, dedication, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit but it can be fun. If you invest in your craft and find your niche, there is no limit to the success you can achieve. Starting a crafting business requires a combination of craftsmanship, market research, a strong online presence, effective marketing, and excellent customer service. Consistent effort, adaptability, and a passion for your craft will help your jewelry business flourish and grow. So, start crafting today and see how your hobby can transform into a profitable hustle!

The post From Hobby to Hustle: 10 Crafts That’ll Turn Your Passion into Profit! appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

The rooms that you walk into most often are in your home. A well-fragranced living environment has the potential to uplift your spirits, promote relaxation, and enhance the overall atmosphere. It gives you a harmonious and nurturing space that supports your mental and emotional health.

In this article, we will discuss why adding fragrance to your home is beneficial, provide tips on achieving a harmonious aroma, and give you some ideas on incorporating scent into your own home. 

The Benefits of Scent in Your Home 

So, we want to elevate our home’s fragrance game but why? Here are some excellent benefits to living scent-sibly:

• Mood Elevation and Stress Reduction – “Odors that evoke positive autobiographical memories have the potential to increase positive emotions, decrease negative mood states, disrupt cravings, and reduce physiological indices of stress,” according to some studies.
• Nostalgia and Memories – Certain scents can trigger memories and nostalgia, fostering a sense of connection and happiness.
• Increased Productivity: Energizing scents like peppermint or eucalyptus can boost focus and productivity. They can boost your motivation and energy.
• Positive Impressions: Guests and visitors will perceive your home as more welcoming and appealing when it has a pleasant fragrance
• Cognitive Function – Studies show what a large impact smells have on cognition. This means that a good-smelling home can help your brain function better.
• Better Sleep – Odors and scents can have a major impact on our sleep quality, according to studies like this one.
• Elevated Aesthetic: A good-smelling home often accompanies cleanliness and organization, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
• Anxiety Relief: Studies such as this one conclude that aromatherapy can be anxiolytic and calming.

Eliminate Bad Smells First

Before adding scents to your home, it’s important to start with a clean palette. If you don’t get rid of things that cause odor first, then you end up just trying to cover them up, and that doesn’t work. So, let’s go through your house and eliminate the bad smells first. Here are some of the most common household odors:

Cooking

Cooking certain foods, especially those with strong odors like fish, onions, and garlic, can leave lingering smells in your home. Make sure to ventilate well by ensuring there is proper airflow from your kitchen to the outdoors.

Trash

An overflowing or neglected trash bin can lead to unpleasant odors from discarded food and other waste.

Dirty Laundry

Accumulated dirty laundry, especially if damp, can emit musty or stale odors.

Pet Odors

Pets, especially if not properly groomed or if their bedding isn’t cleaned regularly, can contribute to lingering odors.

Dirty Dishes

Leaving unwashed dishes in the sink or dishwasher can lead to foul smells.

Stagnant Water

Water that’s left sitting in sinks, drains, or stagnant areas can produce a musty smell.

Mold and Mildew

Humid or damp areas can foster the growth of mold and mildew, resulting in musty odors.

Cigarette Smoke

Smoking indoors can lead to lingering smoke smells that are hard to eliminate. If you smoke, take it outside.

Shoes

Shoes that aren’t properly aired out or stored can develop unpleasant odors.

Furniture and Upholstery

Fabrics, cushions, and upholstery can absorb and hold onto odors over time. Steam Cleaning your furniture once a year will keep it smelling fresh.

Refrigerator

Spoiled or expired food in the refrigerator can cause unpleasant smells to spread.

Bathroom Odors

 Inadequately cleaned bathrooms can develop odors from mildew, mold, or stagnant water.

Household Cleaners

Some cleaning products have strong scents that might linger if not properly ventilated.

Home Appliances

Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and garbage disposals can develop odors if not cleaned regularly.

Remember, good ventilation, regular cleaning, and proper maintenance can go a long way in preventing and eliminating many of these common household odors.

Choosing the Right Fragrance 

Now that you’ve got an odor-free home, the next step is choosing what type of aroma you want. Different fragrances evoke different emotions—flowers are energizing, while herbs are calming—so it’s important to select scents that resonate with your desired atmosphere. Here are some great charts to give you an idea of what different scents can promote:

• How Scents Affect Our Moods
• The Fragrance Wheel
• Garden of Essence

When it comes to picking the right scent, start small. An all-over home fragrance isn’t always necessary; a subtle hint of something pleasant is often enough to create the desired atmosphere. If you’re a beginner, opt for a single fragrance that is exquisitely blended with just a few simple notes. As your nose becomes more familiar with different notes, you can then begin experimenting with layering scents to create more intriguing and captivating aromas. 

Adding Fragrance to Your Home 

There are numerous ways to add fragrance to your home, including scented candles, diffusers, reed diffusers, and even scented wax melts. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks, which is why trial and error is usually the best way to determine which one is right for you. 

Scented candles are a popular choice for many people. Unlike regular candles, scented ones emit small amounts of aromatic compounds into the air. The downside with these is that they produce smoke, which is not ideal for people with allergies. 

Diffusers are a great option if you don’t want to deal with smoke. They work by releasing scent particles into the air without any flame or smoke. They can last for several months, so you don’t have to worry about topping up your products often. Some diffusers even work through your HVAC systems filling your entire home with good smells.

Reed diffusers are a great way to scent an entire room. The reeds absorb the essential oil blend and then release the scent into the air. The advantage of reed diffusers is that they don’t require any power, so they are easy to move around the house. 

Scented wax melts are also a great way to add fragrance to smaller rooms. They don’t require power or fragrances and are usually used with an electric wax burner. 

Making Your Home Smell Great 

Now that you have eliminated the bad smells in your home and you know what your fragrance options are, it’s time to start experimenting! Here are some suggestions to get you started: 

• Choose harmonious scents – Choose scents that complement each other. For instance, if you are using reed diffusers with lavender and rose, make sure they contrast each other, but in a subtle way. 
• Make sure the fragrance isn’t overwhelming – The trick is to make sure the scent doesn’t overpower your room. Try to choose fragrances that linger in the background.
• Change the scents – Don’t be afraid to change things up! You can switch up fragrances depending on the season or occasion. Go for lighter, floral scents for summer or a warm, comforting scent for winter. 
• Experiment with different products – Don’t just stick to one type of product; mix it up and see what works best for you. 

Closing Thoughts

By treating yourself to something as simple and enjoyable as scent, you can elevate your mood and instantly improve the atmosphere in your home. Adding scent to your home can be an incredibly rewarding experience and can give your room that extra “oomph” it needs. From energizing scents to calming ones, you can have a truly unique oasis at home simply by playing around with various fragrances. Don’t be afraid to experiment, as there is no right or wrong when it comes to scent—just remember to keep it light and harmonious! 

The post Scent-sible Living: Elevate Your Home’s Fragrance Game  appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Making Amazing Soaps at Home

Crafting soap at home is a fulfilling and creative endeavor that lets you tailor your soaps to your preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Materials and Equipment:

• Soap base (glycerin, goat’s milk, shea butter, etc.)
• Essential oils or fragrance oils
• Soap colorants (natural or synthetic)
• Soap molds
• Mixing utensils (stainless steel or silicone)
• Microwave or double boiler
• Thermometer
• Spray the bottle with rubbing alcohol
• Cutting tools (knife or soap cutter)
• Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses)

Choose a Soap Base:

Select a soap base that suits your needs and preferences, such as glycerin for transparent soaps or shea butter for added moisturizing.

Cut and Melt the Soap Base:

Cut the soap base into small chunks for easier melting. Use a microwave or double boiler to melt the chunks, monitoring the temperature with a thermometer.

Add Fragrance and Color:

Once melted, add your chosen essential oils or fragrance oils for scent. If desired, incorporate soap colorants to achieve the desired hue.

Mix and Pour:

Gently stir the mixture to evenly distribute fragrance and color. Pour the mixture into soap molds, leaving a bit of space at the top.

Eliminate Bubbles:

To remove air bubbles from the surface, lightly spray the poured soap with rubbing alcohol.

Cool and Harden:

Allow the soap to cool and solidify in the molds for several hours or according to the soap base’s instructions.

Demold and Cut:

Once the soap is completely set, carefully remove it from the molds. Use cutting tools to shape the soap as desired.

Curing:

Place the cut soap bars on a well-ventilated rack for 4-6 weeks to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This enhances the soap’s longevity and lathering properties.

Package and Label:

Once cured, package your homemade soaps in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and light. Label the containers with ingredients and dates.

Enjoy Your Homemade Soaps:

Your handmade soaps are now ready to be used and sold. 

Crafting Candles That Sell

Creating candles at home is a fun and creative way to make some extra cash. And with practice, you can refine your skills and create stunning candles that make amazing-looking and smelling candles that sell. Here is how to do it:

Materials and Equipment:

• Wax (soy, paraffin, or beeswax)
• Wick (pre-tabbed wicks are convenient)
• Fragrance oils or essential oils
• Dye (if desired)
• Double boiler or microwave-safe container
• Thermometer
• Stirring utensil (metal or wooden)
• Candle molds or containers
• Wick holder or adhesive (optional)
• Scale (for accurate measurements)

Prepare Your Workspace:

Set up a clean and organized workspace with all your materials within reach.

Select and Prepare Containers:

Choose molds or containers for your candles. Ensure they are clean and dry.

Melt the Wax:

Use a double boiler or microwave to melt the wax. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer and heat until the wax reaches the desired temperature (depending on the type of wax).

Add Fragrance and Color:

Once the wax is melted, add fragrance oil or essential oil for scent. If you want colored candles, add dye according to your preference. Stir thoroughly.

Secure the Wick:

If using a wick holder, position it in the center of the container. Alternatively, dip the wick’s metal tab into the melted wax and press it onto the bottom of the container to secure the wick’s position.

Pour the Wax:

Slowly pour the melted wax into your containers, leaving some space at the top. Allow the candles to cool and harden.

Second Pour (Optional):

If a sinkhole forms on the top after the first pour, you can melt more wax and pour a second layer to even it out.

Trim the Wick:

Once the candles have fully cooled and solidified, trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the wax surface.

Curing:

Let the candles cure for a couple of days before burning. This improves the scent throw and overall burn quality.

Enjoy Your Candles:

Your homemade candles are now ready to be sold. *Remember to follow candle safety guidelines while burning them.

Marketing Your Candle or Soap Products

Marketing is an essential part of any business, and this is especially true with candles and soaps. To help get your product noticed, it is important to create an online presence. Social media is a great resource for creating relationships with your customers and getting your products seen. The more active you are in engaging with customers and in building an online presence, the more successful you will be. Facebook, for example, will let you create a free business page while TikTok will allow you to advertise your products and even sell them live.

Selling Your Candles or Soaps

Now that you’ve created the perfect candle or soap design and you have an idea on where to market, it’s time to sell your creations! You can start by selling your candles and soaps at local craft shows and farmers’ markets. This is a great way to build relationships with customers and start gaining interest in your products. You can also market your product at festivals and fairs.

The most consistent way to sell your products is online. This is the easiest way to gain access to a wider audience and spread the word about your product. Use selling platforms like Etsy and eBay. You can also use local online markets such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. 

Getting Funds To Buy Supplies

While soap and candle making can be a fun and lucrative venture, it takes money to make money. To make the extra cash you need to get started in your new side hustle, try taking online paid surveys for money. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC and a small amount of time. You can even make extra money to make soaps and candles to sell while sitting on your couch!

Branded Surveys is a top-rated paid surveys platform. They have paid out over 40 million dollars to their members! Get paid to simply answer survey questions in cash or by gift card rewards. Both can easily be used to buy the supplies you need for your new home business.

Closing Thoughts

Making and selling candles and soaps can be a rewarding and profitable business. With the right materials and a good marketing strategy, you can quickly become an expert and start selling your products to the world. And by getting paid to take surveys through Branded, you can get the extra cash you need to do it!

**Safety Considerations – Safety should always be a top priority when engaging in creative pursuits such as candle and soap making. Always read safety instructions on any materials that you purchase and protect yourself with the right attire and safe working practices. It is also essential to ensure that you create your candles and soaps in conditions where there is sufficient ventilation, as some materials may create hazardous fumes and particles. 

The post How To Make and Sell Soaps and Candles! appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

From painting to making no-sew sock sharks, we’ve got 10 awesome and easy DIY art projects for kids that will show them how fun it is to craft at home. So keep them busy this weekend with some of these fun art projects for kids. Bust out the paint sets, and let the creativity begin!

Why Art Projects Are Awesome

We’re sure that any parent already knows how vital creativity is for inspiring kids to use their brains in a good way. Art projects keep kids active, encourage their artistic growth, and let them have some good, clean fun. 

When a child creates artwork, it stimulates physical activity, giving their active bodies much-needed exercise. It also fires up their imagination, allowing them to explore ideas, create stories, and exercise problem-solving techniques.

Art activities also help children find a balance between playtime and ‘normal’ everyday tasks. Completing projects can provide a child with a sense of accomplishment when they know they’ve done something right.

Last but not least, participating in weekend art projects as a family is a great way to bond. It can bring everyone together to join in laughter, smiles, and comradery.

10 DIY Weekend Art Projects for Kids

No-Sew Sock Puppets

Everyone loves a sock monkey…or puppet. Craft up a cute soft puppet in less than an hour. Simply choose a sock and slide it onto your hand, with the heel resting on your wrist. Secure the toe area with a rubber band, creating the puppet’s head. Embellish with googly eyes, felt, and yarn for features. For a mouth, cut a small slit and attach a felt tongue. Let the creativity flow as you transform socks into delightful characters, perfect for hours of imaginative play.

Rock Daisy Jewelry

Create cheerful daisy jewelry for you and your little ones with a few rocks and paint. First, find some smooth, flat stones. Paint the center of each stone yellow and let it dry. Add white petals around the yellow center. Once dry, seal with clear varnish. Glue small, flat metal pieces to the back for durability and to attach a necklace chain or earring hook. Express your natural style with these charming rock daisy accessories, a fusion of nature and fashion.

Gravestone Rubbings

It’s not as scary as it sounds. It’s a traditional and fun activity around the world! Place thin paper over a gravestone. Gently rub a dark crayon or charcoal sideways to capture details. Avoid causing damage and respect the site. Back at home, trim and mount the rubbing. It’s a meaningful way to preserve historical markers and study intricate designs while paying homage to the past.

Homemade Slime

Kids love gooey things, and making them can be just as fun. In a bowl, mix half a cup of glue and a few drops of food coloring. Stir in ¼ cup of water. Slowly add half of a cup of liquid starch while stirring until slime forms. Knead it with your hands until smooth. Adjust consistency with more starch if needed. Store in an airtight container for hours of squishy entertainment. Remember, adult supervision is advised.

Origami 

Sit around the table together and enjoy the calming activity that is origami. Start with a square paper. Fold it in half diagonally both ways, then unfold. Fold corners to meet the center, forming a smaller square. Flip and fold edges to the center, creating a triangle. Fold the triangle in half, then form a diamond by bringing corners to the top. Open one flap and squash down into a square. Fold down the top triangle. Finally, shape and refine your origami masterpiece. You can find thousands of other origami designs and instructions online.

Carnation Hearts

An oldie but a goody, introduce your kids to the classic carnation art. Draw or print a heart template. Cut out multiple paper hearts. Gently fold each heart in half without creasing. Glue the folded hearts around another heart’s outline, creating layers like petals. Attach a button or bead at the center. Adjust and overlap as desired. Hang your dimensional carnation heart creation as a lovely decoration, perfect for celebrating love and beauty.

Nature Collage Canvas

Venture outdoors to collect leaves, flowers, and twigs, then create a stunning collage on a canvas using these natural treasures. Gather a variety of natural elements like leaves, flowers, and twigs from outside. Prepare a canvas and acrylic paint if desired. Arrange the collected items on the canvas to create a pleasing composition. Once satisfied, apply a thin layer of glue to the back of each element and press it onto the canvas. Let it dry. Consider adding painted details or a background to enhance the collage. Display your masterpiece proudly, capturing the beauty of the outdoors and your artistic flair in a unique and captivating way.

Rock Painting

Embark on a rock-painting escapade, decorating smooth stones with colorful designs, patterns, and even inspirational messages. Select smooth, clean rocks. Wash and dry them. Use acrylic paints and brushes to create your designs. Start with a base coat and let it dry. Add details, patterns, or even miniature scenes. Once dry, apply a coat of sealant to protect your artwork. Get creative and let your imagination run wild, transforming ordinary rocks into vibrant and decorative pieces to display in gardens, on shelves, or as thoughtful gifts.

Classic Canvas Painting

One of the best ways to let your kids show their creativity is through painting. Lay out these materials: canvas, acrylic paints, brushes, water cups, and paper towels. Pick a subject or let your imagination flow. Start with a light background layer. Build layers with bigger brushes, adding details with smaller ones. Experiment with colors, shapes, and textures. Let dry and proudly display your masterpiece. Encourage creativity and fun while painting!

T-shirt Painting

Let your kids personalize plain t-shirts with fabric paints or markers, showcasing their individual style and wearable art. Prepare a plain cotton shirt, fabric paints, brushes, stencils (optional), and a palette. Insert cardboard inside the shirt to prevent bleed-through. Choose a design or sketch directly on the fabric. Apply fabric paint using brushes or stencils. Blend colors and add details. Let the paint dry as per instructions. Heat-set the paint to make it permanent, either by ironing or placing the shirt in a dryer. Enjoy wearing your personalized masterpiece, a wearable canvas that reflects your creativity and style. Wash and care according to paint instructions to preserve your artwork.

Conclusion

We hope that these simple art projects inspire you and give you some ideas on how to transform dull weekends into exciting and productive crafting times. So, check your storage sheds for any old supplies you may have lying around the house. You’ll be able to get the kids’ creative juices flowing in no time, and you may help spark a whole new passion of their own. Happy weekend crafting!

The post Frugal DIY Ideas for Kids: Weekend Art Projects appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Step One – Create Designated Storage Areas

Creating designated storage areas is an excellent way to streamline your belongings and make it easier to find and put away items, resulting in a more simplified and efficient home. Start by assessing your storage needs and available space. Identify areas where items tend to accumulate, such as keys, mail, or shoes, and designate specific storage solutions for them. Utilize hooks, baskets, trays, or shelves to keep these items organized and easily accessible. Maximize vertical space by using wall-mounted organizers or overhead storage. Create a system for storing items based on the frequency of their use or category, and label containers to easily identify their contents. Regularly declutter and reorganize these storage areas to maintain order and prevent clutter from building up. 

Step Two – Declutter

Decluttering your home is the first and biggest step in simplifying your home. Start by tackling one area at a time. Begin with small tasks like organizing your desk or decluttering a single drawer. Sort items into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Be ruthless and quick in your decision-making process. Only keep things that you truly need or bring you joy and let go of duplicates and items that serve no purpose. Utilize storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelves to create designated spaces for belongings. Regularly assess your possessions and develop a habit of mindful consumption to prevent future clutter. Remember, simplifying your home is a gradual process, so be patient and persistent.

Step Three – Organize

Organization is vital to a simplified home. It promotes a sense of calm and makes daily life more efficient. Start by assigning a specific place for each item. Use storage solutions like bins, shelves, and organizers to keep belongings in order. Categorize items based on their function or use and label containers to easily identify their contents. Remember to regularly declutter and donate or discard items that are no longer needed. The less you have to organize, the better. 

Step Four – Clear Surfaces

By clearing surfaces in your home, you’ll create a sense of spaciousness and serenity, allowing your living spaces to feel more organized and simplified. Start by removing unnecessary items that accumulate on countertops, tables, and other surfaces. Keep only a few essential items that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Find designated storage solutions for items that tend to accumulate, such as mail or keys. Utilize trays, baskets, or hooks to keep these items organized and easily accessible. Then, implement a habit of regularly decluttering and putting things away after use. Consider minimalist decor or a few carefully chosen decorations to create a clean and uncluttered look. 

Step Five – Minimize Furniture

Furniture easily takes up the most space in your home. A simplified home has open space. To minimize furniture in your home and simplify it, start by assessing each piece’s functionality and purpose. Remove any furniture that serves no practical use or doesn’t align with your desired aesthetic. Create a spacious and open atmosphere by keeping only essential pieces that enhance the room’s functionality and flow. Consider multi-purpose furniture to maximize space and minimize clutter. Rearrange the layout to create an uncluttered and visually pleasing environment. Embrace a minimalist mindset and opt for quality over quantity. By reducing the amount of furniture, you’ll not only simplify your home but also create a more peaceful and harmonious living space.

Step Six – Limit Decorations

To limit decoration and simplify your home, adopt a minimalist approach. Choose a few meaningful and visually pleasing decorations that truly enhance the space. Avoid excessive knick knacks or cluttering surfaces with unnecessary items. Opt for quality over quantity, selecting pieces that bring joy and align with your aesthetic. Embrace functional decor that serves a purpose, such as storage containers that double as decor. Regularly assess and edit your decor, letting go of items that no longer resonate with you. By limiting decoration, you’ll create a clean, uncluttered atmosphere that promotes a sense of calm and simplicity. For further reading, check out our post on the top home decorating hacks. 

Step Seven – Streamline your Wardrobe

Simplifying your home isn’t only about the stuff you see. Clothing can accumulate easily and is often a big part of disorganization frustration. Streamlining your wardrobe is an excellent and important way to simplify your home. It will also save you time in getting dressed. Begin by decluttering your clothes. Remove items that no longer fit, are out of style, or don’t align with your style. Remember, if you haven’t worn it in the last six months, then you probably don’t need it. Keep only the essentials and pieces that you truly love and feel comfortable wearing. Create a capsule wardrobe by selecting versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. Organize your clothes by category or color to make it easier to find what you need. 

Step Eight – Digitize Paperwork

By digitizing your paperwork, you’ll reduce paper clutter, free up physical storage space, and have instant access to important documents, leading to a simplified and more organized home. To digitize your paperwork, start by sorting through your documents and separating them into categories such as financial, medical, or personal. Invest in a scanner or use smartphone apps to digitize the physical copies. Create digital folders and organize your files in a logical and easily searchable manner. Back up your digital files regularly to ensure their safety. Shred or recycle the physical copies, keeping only the essential documents that require a hard copy. If you need to keep some vital documents (like birth certificates or auto titles), designate a large binder and keep it stored in a specific location.

Step Nine – Establish Routines

Now that you’ve decluttered, minimized, and organized, you will want to keep it that way. By establishing routines, you’ll maintain a clean and organized home effortlessly, reducing stress and creating a simplified living environment. Start by identifying tasks that need to be done regularly, such as cleaning, tidying up, and doing laundry. Create a schedule or checklist to outline when and how often these tasks should be completed. You can Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them more approachable. Consistency is key, so stick to your routine and make it a habit. And don’t be afraid to periodically adjust your routines to fit your lifestyle and evolving needs. 

Step Ten – Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the key to a simplified home. Now that you’ve got things in order and you are keeping it that way, you can relish in it. By practicing mindfulness, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for your home and create a more intentional, simplified living environment. Start by being conscious of your belongings and shopping habits. Before purchasing new items, ask yourself if you truly need them and if they align with your values and lifestyle. Avoid impulsive buying and instead focus on intentional purchases that bring value to your life. Regularly declutter and let go of items that no longer serve a purpose. Embrace gratitude for the items you have and cultivate a sense of contentment with what you already own. Now that you know what you have and where it is, it’s easy!

Simplifying your home through these ten steps is a transformative journey toward creating a serene and harmonious living space. By decluttering, organizing, streamlining, and being mindful, you’ll experience the liberating feeling of letting go of excess and embracing a more minimalist lifestyle. You can say goodbye to chaos and hello to a peaceful sanctuary where you can truly relax and recharge. Remember that simplicity is an ongoing process, so stay committed to maintaining a clutter-free and simplified home. Your efforts will be rewarded with a space that supports and nurtures your well-being.

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The Frugal Living Practices of The Great Depression 

During the Great Depression, people had to learn how to survive with what they already had. They could not afford to waste anything, from food to clothing to household items. By applying these frugal living practices, we can save money, reduce waste, and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Here are some frugal living practices from that era that we can apply to our lives today:

Reusing and Repurposing – Using items for many purposes was an integral part of surviving during The Depression, from turning old clothing into quilts or rugs to reusing jars for canning to turning old sheets into curtains. Finding creative ways to repurpose items in our own homes can keep us from having to buy new stuff. We will give you some more great ideas and ways to do this in the next section.

Gardening – Growing a garden was essential during the Great Depression. It allowed families to grow their own produce and gave them access to food when there wasn’t enough around. Homesteading and gardening have become very popular in recent years as well. Check out How To Save Money on Food by Growing Your Own for some tips on how to do it. If you don’t have the space for an outdoor garden, Food You Can Grow in Your Apartment will give you some awesome ideas too. 

Cooking from Scratch – Processed foods were not common during the Great Depression, so families had to cook meals from scratch using basic ingredients. We can continue this practice by cooking more meals at home, using fresh ingredients, and avoiding processed foods.

Saving Energy – For the families who still had electricity during that era, they could not afford to waste it. Using natural light during the day and candles at night were standard. We can follow this example by turning off lights when leaving a room, dressing warmer (or cooler), and sealing drafts around windows and doors.

Making Do with Less – One of the biggest lessons from the Great Depression was learning to make do with less. Families would make their own toys, repair clothing instead of buying new ones, and find ways to entertain themselves without spending money. We can apply this by finding ways to live more minimally and only purchasing what we truly need.

Resourcefulness: Using What You Have Instead of Buying New 

During the Great Depression, people had to be extremely resourceful to make ends meet. They often had to rely on what they already had instead of buying new. Repurposing household items is an excellent way to be resourceful. Here are some tips to help you be more resourceful and use what you have instead of buying new:

• Glass Jars: Clean and repurpose glass jars as storage containers for pantry items like grains, nuts, and spices. They can also be used as vases, candle holders, or even DIY terrariums.
• T-Shirts: Transform old t-shirts into reusable shopping bags by cutting off the sleeves and sewing the bottom closed. This helps reduce plastic bag waste and gives your t-shirts a new purpose. You can also turn them into pillowcases.
• Egg Cartons: Repurpose egg cartons as seed starters for gardening. Fill each compartment with soil and plant seeds. Once the seedlings are ready, you can transfer them to larger pots or directly into the garden.
• Plastic Bottles: Cut off the top portion of plastic bottles to create handy storage solutions. Use them as small organizers for office supplies like pens, pencils, and paper clips. You can also repurpose larger bottles as watering cans for your indoor or outdoor plants by poking small holes in the cap and using the bottle’s spout to control the water flow.

Making Do: Making and Repairing Items 

One of the key principles of frugal living is to make things last as long as possible. The Great Depression taught people to make and repair stuff rather than continuously buying new ones. This philosophy can be applied today, and it is a sustainable way to save money and reduce waste. Here are some tips for making and repairing items:

Learn basic repair skills – Knowing how to fix simple items like clothing, kitchen appliances, or furniture can save you a lot of money over time. There are plenty of resources available online to help you learn basic repair skills.

Refinish furniture – Instead of buying new furniture, consider refinishing old pieces. It’s a fun DIY project that will save you money and give your home a unique look. If you find that you love doing it, you can even sell the furniture that you redo!

Make your own cleaning products – During the Great Depression, nobody had money to buy Windex or Pine-Sol, so they made their own. Homemade cleaning products can be just as effective as store-bought options and cost a fraction of the price. Basic ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can be used to clean almost anything. Check out Make Your Own Cheap And Healthy Cleaning Products for how to do it.

Preserve food – Those that lived through The Depression Food didn’t waste even a scrap of food. And they learned how to preserve it to make it last. Preservation techniques like canning and pickling can save you money by allowing you to stock up on produce when it’s in season and cheaper.

Repair electronics – Electronic devices are expensive, and while they were very common during the Great Depression, repairing them rather than replacing them can help you live frugally. Before you throw out a broken electronic device, try to repair it first. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available to help you diagnose and fix common issues.

Embracing Frugality in Your Everyday Life

Frugal living is a practical, sustainable way to save money and reduce waste. By adopting some of the principles and tips from the Great Depression era, we can learn to make the most of what we have and become more self-sufficient. Whether it’s repairing and repurposing items, making DIY cleaning products, or learning basic repair skills, embracing frugality can have a positive impact on our finances and the environment.

Remember that the key to successful frugal living is to focus on what matters most to us and make deliberate, informed choices about our spending like they had to do during The Depression. Whether we are trying to save money, reduce our environmental impact, or simply live a more intentional life, embracing frugality can help us achieve our goals and live a more fulfilling, sustainable life.

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1. Find Your Treasure Trove

The first step to successful furniture flipping is finding your hidden gems. Keep your eyes peeled because you never know what diamond in the rough you might stumble upon! Look for pieces with good bones, even if they are worn or outdated. Remember, your creativity will breathe new life into them. Here are three tips to help you find furniture to flip:

• Research and scout local sources: Start by researching and identifying local sources where you can find furniture at affordable prices. This can include thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, online marketplaces, or even curbside pickups. Visit these places regularly and keep an eye out for pieces that have potential for improvement. 
• Look for quality and potential: When searching for furniture to flip, focus on finding pieces with good structural integrity and the potential for improvement. Look for solid wood furniture as it tends to be more durable and can be refinished easily. Avoid items with major structural damage, as repairing them might not be cost-effective. Instead, focus on pieces that need cosmetic improvements, such as refinishing, reupholstering, or painting. Always try to assess the potential resale value of each piece before making a purchase.
• Negotiate prices and be cost-conscious: Negotiating prices is crucial when flipping furniture. Most sellers expect some haggling, especially at garage sales or flea markets. Be prepared to make reasonable offers and negotiate a price that allows for a profitable flip. Make sure to consider your budget for materials, such as paint, fabric, or hardware, needed for the refurbishment. Ensure that the total investment, including purchase price and refurbishment costs, doesn’t exceed the potential resale value. Being mindful of costs will help maximize your profit margins.

2. Let Your Imagination Run Wild

This is the fun part. Once you have your furniture piece, it’s time to unleash your creativity. Let your imagination run wild! Consider the style, color scheme, and purpose of the piece. Will it become a shabby-chic dresser, a boho-inspired coffee table, or a sleek modern chair? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques such as painting, staining, or reupholstering. The sky’s the limit when it comes to transforming your find into a unique masterpiece.

3. Quality Matters

While creativity is key, it’s important not to overlook quality. Taking shortcuts might save you money upfront, but it can compromise the overall look and durability of your piece. Remember, you want your customers to be impressed by your work and willing to pay a premium price for it. Here are some great tips for quality pieces:

• Prepare and repair: Before starting any refinishing or refurbishment work, thoroughly clean the furniture to remove dirt, grime, and old finishes. Repair any structural issues, such as loose joints or broken parts. Ensure that the piece is stable and sturdy before moving forward with the makeover. 
• Choose quality materials: Invest in high-quality materials to achieve a professional and durable finish. Select paints, stains, varnishes, or finishes that are specifically designed for furniture restoration. Opt for durable upholstery fabrics that can withstand wear and tear. Using quality materials not only enhances the appearance of the furniture but also increases its longevity and value.
• Pay attention to detail: The success of a furniture flip often lies in the details. Take the time to carefully sand the surfaces to ensure a smooth finish. Apply multiple thin coats of paint or stain, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Pay attention to details like decorative accents, knobs, or handles. Replacing worn or outdated hardware with stylish and modern options can significantly elevate the overall look of the piece. Additionally, ensure that upholstery work is neat and professional-looking, with clean lines and secure attachment.

4. Price It Right

Determining the right price for your flipped furniture can be tricky. You want to make a profit, but you also need to be competitive in the market. Research similar items online or visit local furniture stores to get a sense of the pricing range. Consider the amount of time, effort, and materials you put into the piece. Don’t undervalue your work, but also be mindful of setting prices too high, as it may deter potential buyers.

5. Market Your Masterpieces

Now that you have a stunning piece ready to sell, it’s time to spread the word. Here is how to market your masterpieces:

• High-Quality Photography: Good photography can significantly enhance the appeal of your pieces and attract potential buyers. Use good lighting, a clean background, and multiple angles to showcase the furniture’s features and craftsmanship. Ensure that the colors and details are accurately represented in the photos. Consider staging the furniture in a well-designed setting to help customers envision it in their own spaces. 
• Online Platforms and Social Media: Utilize online platforms and social media to market your flipped furniture. Create listings on popular online marketplaces such as Etsy, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. Write compelling descriptions that highlight the unique aspects, quality, and refurbishment of each piece. Use relevant keywords to improve search visibility. Share captivating photos of your furniture, engage with potential customers, and use relevant hashtags to expand your reach. 
• Build a Website or Portfolio: Consider creating a website or portfolio to showcase your flipped furniture and establish a professional online presence. A dedicated website allows you to showcase your work, tell your story, and provide more detailed information about your services. Include high-quality images, descriptions, pricing, and contact information. You can also incorporate customer testimonials or before-and-after transformations to build credibility. A website serves as a centralized hub for your business, helps attract organic traffic, and allows potential customers to browse and inquire about your furniture at their convenience.

6. Provide Excellent Customer Service

Customer satisfaction is key to building a successful furniture-flipping business. Be responsive to inquiries and maintain clear communication with your potential buyers. Offer flexible delivery options or provide a space for customers to view and test your furniture. Going the extra mile to ensure a positive experience will not only generate repeat business but also valuable word-of-mouth referrals. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your services and become repeat buyers, contributing to the success and growth of your venture.

7. Learn from Experience

As you gain more experience in the furniture flipping world, don’t be afraid to learn from your successes and failures. Take note of what sells well, what trends are popular, and what techniques yield the best results. Continuously improve your skills and adapt to market demands. Attend workshops, join online forums, and connect with fellow furniture flippers to share knowledge and gain inspiration. Remember that you aren’t going to sell every piece you do overnight. Furniture flipping takes some skill but from experience, you can have it!

Furniture-flipping is not only about making money; it’s also about unleashing your creativity and passion. You get to embrace the joy of transforming forgotten pieces into stunning works of art. With dedication, a keen eye, and a sprinkle of imagination, you’ll be well on your way to turning your furniture flipping hobby into a profitable and fulfilling business. Happy flipping!

The post How To Make Money With Furniture Flipping appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

The good news is that date nights don’t have to be expensive to be great. In truth, some of the best dates are those that are simple yet creative. From watching the sunset over the city skyline to going for a bike ride along the beach, there are plenty of affordable and fun ideas for summer dates that couples can enjoy together. So go ahead, plan that date together, and make it memorable! Here are some budget-friendly and entertaining summer date ideas for couples.

Budget-friendly Summer Date Ideas

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities. What better way to spend a date night than enjoying the great outdoors? And you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Here are some fun and inexpensive summer date ideas:

Picnic in the Park: Pack a basket with your favorite snacks and a cozy blanket, and head to the park for a peaceful picnic. Enjoy the scenery, soak up some sun, and savor some quality time with your significant other.

Volunteer Together: Spend a day volunteering for a local charity or community organization that you both care about. It’s an awesome way to help others and feel good about yourselves, together.

DIY Art Project: Get creative and do an outdoor DIY art project together. You could paint an old dresser or craft some new decor for your home. This will give you something to cherish forever that you know you made together. It’s also a great way to see each other’s creative side.

Beach Day: Take a day trip to the beach and soak up the sun together. You can go for a swim, play beach volleyball, or simply relax in the sand. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a beach umbrella, and some snacks.

Outdoor Photography: Take your cameras or smartphones and go on a photography adventure, capturing the beauty of nature or interesting city sights. You can make a digital (or hard) scrapbook or portfolio and keep it as a memory made together.

Farmers’ Market Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll through your local farmers’ market. It’s a great way to support local businesses while enjoying a fun and relaxed atmosphere. It’s also the best way to get fresh and organic produce. Then, take home your finds and create a healthy meal together.

Visit a Local Museum: Many museums offer free or discounted admission days, so take advantage of this opportunity to explore art, history, or science.

Hiking or Biking: Take advantage of the beautiful weather and hit the trails for a scenic hike or bike ride. It’s a great way to get in some exercise and enjoy each other in the summer air.

Stargazing: Get away from the city lights and enjoy a romantic evening under the stars. Make the drive there just as enjoyable with some great music. Don’t forget to bring blankets and maybe some hot cocoa!

Outdoor Cooking: Fire up the grill, put on some music that you both enjoy and crack out the cold beverages. What an awesome way to enjoy the summer weather together, on a budget, without having to leave the backyard.

Board Game Night: Have a cozy night in and play board games together, enjoying some friendly competition and quality time. You can sit in the living or dining room or make it extra cozy and play Scrabble (for example) right on your bed.

Cook Together: You don’t have to leave home to enjoy a date night. Cooking together can be an excellent way to bond. In fact, this is such an awesome summer date idea that we give you some pointers on it in the next section.

**Remember, the most important part of the date is spending quality time with your partner. So no matter what activity you choose, focus on creating memories and enjoying each other’s company.

Enjoying a Home-cooked Meal For a Cozy Date Night

While going out for dinner can be enjoyable, sometimes nothing beats a home-cooked meal. Preparing a meal together can be a fun and intimate activity that can lead to a delicious and satisfying date night. And it’s budget-friendly! Here are some tips for enjoying a home-cooked meal for a cozy date night at home:

Choose a recipe together – Select a recipe that you both find interesting or exciting. It can be a favorite dish or something new that you both want to try.

Shop for ingredients together – Head to the grocery store or farmers market together to gather the ingredients needed for the recipe. This can be a fun activity in itself, as you search for the perfect ingredients.

Prepare the meal together – Cooking together can be a great bonding experience. It can also be a chance to learn new skills or techniques from one another.

Set the mood – Create a cozy ambiance by lighting candles or dimming the lights. Play some relaxing music or create a playlist of your favorite songs.

Enjoy the meal – Once the meal is ready, sit down and enjoy it together. Savor the flavors and the time spent together. Don’t forget to pair the meal with a bottle of wine or your favorite beverage.

Tip for Making Your Summer Dates Perfect

Now that you have some awesome ideas for summer date nights, remember to prioritize them and make them a regular part of your routine. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your next date night:

Plan Ahead – Plan your date in advance so you have enough time to coordinate schedules and activities. Pick at least three days per month and add them to your calendar. You can also create a list of date night ideas together and keep it updated as you find new places to explore.

Keep it Simple – Date nights don’t have to be extravagant. Even a night in with your favorite takeout, a bottle of wine, and a movie can be a perfect date night. Just make sure that you make it all about being together.

Stay Off Your Phone – It’s important to minimize the use of your phone when on a date. Screen time distracts from the moment and takes away from the experience. This should be a time to focus on each other. If you can, leave the phones at home or at least put them on silent.

Try New Things – Don’t be afraid to try new things, whether it’s trying a new recipe or exploring a new neighborhood. It keeps things exciting and helps you learn more about your partner. 

Summer dates are not just about going out and having fun; they also help you to connect with each other on a deeper level. Prioritize them to keep your relationship strong and healthy. And with these budget-friendly and entertaining summer date ideas for couples, you don’t have to worry about spending too much money. So, plan your next date night, have fun, and make some lasting memories.

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Did you know that if you grow them yourself, you can eat more nutrient-rich and tasteful vegetables than you can get at the grocery store for a fraction of the price? And you can even grow healthy foods in your own kitchen in just a few days!

Here are the benefits of growing your vegetables at home, how to pick and start your plants, and some tips for doing it well.

The Benefits of Growing Your Own Food

Growing your own food can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. Not only does it give you control over the quality and safety of your produce, but there are several other benefits that home-grown food can provide.

Growing your produce saves you time and money. This is especially helpful when you don’t have the time or resources to travel to the grocery store. Also, having access to fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, etc. can be rewarding in itself, since they retain more flavors, nutrients, and vitamins than their store-bought counterparts. And you won’t have to worry about ingredients and other additives that could be used to preserve store-bought produce.

Gardening is a great way to reduce stress and boost mental health. Whether you enjoy the process of planting and tending to your plants or just the satisfying feeling of harvest time, gardening can be a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also one of the best free or cheap activities to do with kids. It provides the opportunity to teach them the importance of healthy eating and instill a love of nature.

Finally, growing your own vegetables is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Growing your produce isn’t just good for your family’s health—it’s good for the environment, too. It truly reduces your dependence on pre-packaged, store-bought food.

Picking the Right Plants

Choosing the right plants to grow is vital. Factors such as temperature, humidity, size, and maintenance all come into play. Most importantly, you don’t want to choose plants that take a long time to produce. Here are some plants that grow quickly:

• Salad Greens: Choose varieties of lettuce, spinach, chard, and kale for a quick and easy harvest. These greens prefer cool weather and should be sown in early spring.
• Herbs: Herbs are easy to grow and make great additions to many dishes. They are especially popular because they can be grown indoors in a small area. Herbs such as dill, basil, cilantro, rosemary, chives, and parsley can be harvested within 2-4 weeks of sowing.
• Radishes: As one of the quickest vegetables to grow, radishes can be ready to eat within a month. Choose between root varieties like French Round, Globe, and Chinese Red Meat Radish.
• Carrots: Carrots are a great choice for gardeners, as they can be planted in colder weather. Sow seeds in late winter, and harvest 4-6 weeks later.
• Beans: Although beans take longer to reach maturity than other plants, they are still quick to harvest. Pole beans are especially easy to grow, and can be ready for picking in two months.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a favorite summer vegetable that can be enjoyed for months. Cherry tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, and heirloom tomatoes are all quick-growing and delicious varieties.
• Eggplants: Eggplants can be harvested before they reach full maturity to provide you with a unique addition to your summer dishes.

Make sure to read and follow the instructions for planting and upkeep to ensure a successful crop. Consider the weather in your area and the available space that you have. With the right planning and care, you can easily have your own quick-growing edible garden in no time!

How to Get Started

Once you’ve chosen the plants you’d like to grow, it’s time to get started. Here are a few simple steps to get your quick-growing edible plants off to a great start:

Prep your soil: Before planting, make sure that your soil is amended with compost and other organic materials appropriate for what you’re planting.

Plant at the right time: Keep in mind that some plants prefer cooler weather, while others need more heat. Make sure to sow your seeds only when the temperature is right to ensure they germinate and thrive. A good way to gauge what to grow when is to know what hardiness zone you are in. You can use the USDA website to figure this out.

Get a leg up: Many quick-growing plants will do well if you start them in pots indoors before transferring them to the garden. This allows you to get a head start on the growing season.

Water daily: Make sure to keep your plants well-hydrated. Quick-growing vegetable plants should be watered daily during hot summer days.

Once you’ve got your quick-growing edible plants planted and ready to grow, you’ll be harvesting in no time. You can enjoy the fruits of your labor and marvel at how quickly you can have a tasty garden-fresh meal on your table.

Tips for Success

Growing your own edible plants doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are some tips that you can use to ensure that you have a successful and abundant harvest:

Start with quality seeds: Make sure you purchase high-quality seeds from a reputable source. This will help to ensure that your plants will germinate faster and remain healthy while they grow. Another way to save money with gardening is to keep the seeds you get from your crop this year and use them next season.

Give your plants enough sunlight: Sunlight is the primary source of energy for plants, so make sure that you place them in a location that receives enough of it. Most edible plants need 6-8 hours of sun each day.

Water regularly: Remember to water your plants regularly to keep them healthy and encourage growth. Make sure that you water them deeply, but don’t overwater them. If you are growing indoors, make sure that your pots have sufficient drainage on the bottom of them.

Transplant when necessary: Once your plants get too large for the pot or container, make sure that you transplant them into larger ones so that they will continue to grow.

Feed your plants: Ensure you feed your plants with the proper nutrients. There are a variety of organic and non-toxic fertilizers and soil additives that you can purchase to help your plants grow stronger and healthier.

Prune your plants: Regularly pruning your plants will help to keep them healthy and promote growth. Not only does this keep them from becoming too tall and lanky, but it will also give more room to fruit.

Growing your own edible plants from home is an excellent way to save money and ensure that you are consuming healthy and delicious food. And it doesn’t have to take a long time. With a few simple tips, you can begin growing your quick-growing edible plants in no time.

The post From Seed to Table in Record Time: Quick-Growing Plants You Can Eat appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

However, if you’ve never hosted a yard sale before, the prospect can seem a little daunting. Where do you even begin? Don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll give you all the tips and tricks you need to know to host the perfect yard sale. From pricing your items to advertising your sale, we’ve got you covered. And by going one step at a time, it won’t be as intimidating as it sounds. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

Decluttering Your Stuff

People love a good yard sale – but to have a successful yard sale, you need to have good stuff to sell! And that means decluttering your home to eliminate all the things you don’t need. Here are a few tips on how to declutter your stuff so you can have a successful yard sale:

Designate and clear a space – You are going to end up with a sizable amount of stuff to sell. As you declutter your stuff, it needs somewhere to go. Otherwise, your decluttering project will turn your house upside down instead of making it more manageable. So the first step in getting ready for a yard sale is to designate a space for the unwanted stuff. This could be your garage, a backroom, or even the yard if you are doing it all in one day. Once you choose the right place, make sure you have space for all the items you are about to add to it.

Start with the easiest stuff first – Identify the items that will be easiest for you to get rid of. This might be stuff that you don’t use regularly or that you can live without. A good tip is to start big. Don’t want that end table anymore? Get it out of there! Now you’ve freed up some space.

Get rid of duplicate items – Do you really need two of the same coffee mug? Probably not. Get rid of duplicates and other things you don’t need multiples of.

Ask yourself – after you declutter the obvious stuff, it gets a little harder to let things go. This is where asking yourself comes in. When looking at an item and trying to decide whether it should stay or go, ask yourself: “Have I found this object useful in the last 30 days?” Then, unless it’s an heirloom or significantly sentimental, let it go.

Advertising Your Yard Sale

Now that you’ve got enough stuff to sell, you’ll need to spread the word and let people know about your yard sale. A great way to do this is by creating an advertisement poster. You can hang them up in densely populated areas and in local grocery stores or even plant the word to the locals.

You could also create a listing on social media outlets like Facebook or Instagram. Post a link to your yard sale in local online forums, classified sites, and yard sale organizations. You can also post online on websites such as Craigslist and YardSaleSearch.com.

You may be surprised to find that your local newspaper still has a yard sale section. If they do, running an ad for your yard sale usually doesn’t cost much at all. And it might bring in more buyers, which is what you ultimately want. 

Preparing For Your Yard Sale

Now that you have stuff to sell and you’ve gotten the word out, it’s time to prepare for the big day. Preparation is essential. So here is what you should do before opening your doors to customers:

Organize your items

When people come to your yard sale, they want to browse easily and buy quickly. So, preparing and setting up your items in an organized way is the key. Sort your items into categories and group similar items together. Also, price your items ahead of time and display them in a way that makes them stand out and seem attractive. We will tell you how to price your stuff in the next section.

Create a store-like experience

You want to create a store-like experience at the yard sale. Make the space look inviting and neat by displaying items in an organized manner on tables, racks, and stands so customers don’t have to rummage through things.

Have change on hand

Make sure that you are prepared with enough small bills and coins. Customers will most likely have larger bills, so you need to have change ready to give them.

Arrive early and set up with plenty of time

Arrive at least an hour before your advertised time and make sure everything is set up so customers can start shopping. 

Pricing Your Items

Pricing your stuff is a big part of preparing for your yard sale. Pricing too high will mean you miss out on sales, and pricing too low could mean you won’t get top dollar for your items. Here are a few tips to help you price your items correctly:

Research Similar Items – Take the time to look up similar items on eBay, thrift stores, and other yard sales. This will give you an idea of how much you should be pricing them. 

Remember Your Time and Investment – Think about how long you took to put the sale together, how much you put into buying the items, and how much time you spent researching prices. All this should be factored in when pricing your items.

Make Everything Negotiable – Ensure you are open to haggling and negotiating prices. This will enable you to make the most money from your sales.

Following these steps can make preparing and having a yard sale a fun and rewarding experience. From decluttering to preparing for the big day – it doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. Have fun with it and enjoy the rewards from it!

Closing Thoughts

Before we close, here are a few great tips to make your yard sale even more awesome:

Good customer service

Put yourself in the customer’s shoes. When you first walk up to a yard sale, it’s somewhat intimidating, right? After all – this is someone’s home, and these are their items. But when you see the owner smiling and welcoming you, the awkwardness fades, and it becomes enjoyable. So make sure to be kind and friendly to your customers, and your sales will be higher.

Beverages

Most likely, your customers have already been to a few other yard sales today. Offering cold drinks can set you apart from the other yard sales. It can make your customer feel welcomed and refreshed. Even if it’s just ice water in solo cups, it will be appreciated. And happy customers mean more sales.

Music

While good customer service and refreshments can help to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, adding some music is icing on the cake. Playing some light music in the background can be great for loosening up the crowd, and it covers up any awkward silences.

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