M Gandarinho

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Meet The Maker - Common Good

August 21, 2017 by Melissa Gandarinho

So many people constantly ask me what I use in my household, to clean. It's taken me a long time and honestly, it was the hardest out of all things, to do cruelty free. When I saw Common Good on Gilt City, I checked the prices online, to see if it would even be worth investing in. Something to take note of, Common Good isn't the most inexpensive product, but the quality, the brand, and everything they stand behind, is a reason to support. 

I have honestly fallen in love with the Tea Tree All Purpose Cleaner, and although I have another cleaner to use after I'm done with my second bottle of this cleaner, I'm probably going back to it. It's that good. I also love that they have refill stations in NY and NJ. Less waste, to protect mother earth! 

I wanted you to really understand why you should support this brand and think more about the products you are using in your home (as these are safe for pets and kids), so I hope you enjoy this Q&A with Sacha!


Common Good is such a simple name, for a simple company, what inspired the name?

I founded my company in hopes of making an impact for the good of the planet, my community and my family, for the common good of all those things I cared about and knew others cared for too.

The company has been around since 2011, what has been one of the biggest struggles and one of the best experiences the past 6 years?

I love seeing my community refill their cleaning products at my local refill station here in Brooklyn. It’s a small thing, but it gives me hope that there are like-minded individuals out their hoping to reduce their impact and staying conscientious of their own plastic consumption. And to that end, one of the biggest struggles has been navigating how to scale that experience---the community refill station---it’s such a different way of thinking about consumption that it takes a lot of education on the part of the retailer, the customer, etc.

Prior to creating Common Good, how did you go about cleaning and buying products in general?

I still use all-natural remedies where I can. Lemon and salt are essential to my cleaning cupboard! Of course, before Common Good, I tried to buy the most sustainable, products I could find at my local store, and one of the reasons I founded Common Good was because I saw the plastic recyclables piling up in my bins. I wanted to reuse my detergent and soap bottles, but I couldn’t find refills anywhere in my neighborhood!

How do you choose the right essential oils for each product and why not keep them unscented?

Firstly, we only work with manufacturers that sustainably source their essential oils, that is a priority to us. When deciding scents, we usually look at what that essential oil adds to the formula to make the cleaner more effective. For example, we use tea tree oil in our all-purpose cleaner because it anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. We expanded our offerings to scented products because there as a demand for cleaners that had a fresh, light smell, and we wanted to offer them that. Speaking with customers, we found that they enjoyed learning about essential oils and how we use them.

Speaking of essential oils, what are your top 3 essential oils you recommend people start with at home, and why?

Great question! Tea tree for the reasons above. Lavender oil is the most versatile: great for soothing infusions, effective anti-bacterial agent. Peppermint oil is a great defense against pests (wards off ants and other insects and mice can’t stand it). 

What brought you to create a product that focuses on recycling and refilling as much as possible?

Habit, initially. I grew up in Sydney, where refillable laundry detergent is a thing. Refillable containers for cleaners are common in homes. After arriving in the states and starting a family of my own, I realized how much detergent a household consumes and how that translated to many non-reusable containers, dispensers, etc. piling up in the trash and recycling each week. I live in a city where space is so important and scarce, and I wanted to limit and simplify what cleaners came into my home.

On the topic of refilling, how do you get your products and refill station, at locations? Do companies find it strange?

When we first started introducing the refill stations to the neighborhood we thought it may be hard to change people’s behavior. But actually, people responded really well. And that’s how we knew we were onto something! 

On a lighter note, you're from Australia and reside in Brooklyn now, what's something you miss about Australia, and something you love about Brooklyn?

Obviously the beaches, just being able to stroll down for a swim for half an hour before work, or a quick dip in the afternoon, just thinking about it now makes me homesick. And as for Brooklyn - the energy, the endless possibilities, the spontaneity, the people, that’s what keeps me here.

As someone who worked with for brands like Target, Pottery Barn, Food & Wine and Real Simple Magazine, how do you think these companies are doing with featuring and showcasing green and clean brands?

Programs like the Spring Wellness event we participated in at Target really help raise awareness of sustainable brands, particular smaller ones - and bring them to a larger audience. 

If there was one thing you could change about the cosmetic, bath, and home brands, what would it be?

Greenwashing of their products and prioritizing sustainability holistically, not just in the product form - from packing and shipping to company culture.

On a regular day, what are the things you choose and want to do?

Getting through my to-do list, and drinking Kombucha. 

Do you also incorporate clean eating into your life? What's a typical meal day for you?

I try to bring lunch from home, rather then go out or buy take out which comes with a lot of excess plastic packaging. I start my day with a coffee, and whatever breakfast my children didn’t finish. When I come into work, it is generally roasted almonds, wasa crackers, an avocado with lemon and seasonal fruit.

What has been the best advice or quote you have received or read?

That it is always better to get something done and get it out there, rather then wait until it is done perfectly. 

If you could give any piece of advice to the readers, what would it be?

If you are think about starting a business, surround yourself with people with moxie, enthusiasm, perseverance and willingness to take risks, it will make the whole experience a lot easier. 

Lastly, what was the last book you read, and what's your mini review of it?

I just finished The Rules Do Not Apply, Ariel Levy’s amazing memoir - as a woman, a wife, a mother, a daughter, I found it was so insightful, funny, moving, heartbreaking - just read it. 


There you have it, one of the most educational Meet The Maker  I have ever had, and truthfully, a post that was needed on this site. 

Too many people ignore how much plastic they pile up, and we need to be more concerned with how we are treatinf our home. 

I highly encourage trying Common Good, and recommend all the products in my photo, especially the all purpose cleaner and linen water, those are my favs! My bf loves the bergamont hand soap.

August 21, 2017 /Melissa Gandarinho
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What I'm currently reading. I've been slacking on reading so much. I told myself one book a month last year, and failed towards the end.

I did not start this year off right, I've just been so mentally exhausted. But I'm working on letting my brain just enjoy reading.

I have such a passion for reading, despite struggling with doing so lately.

How do you get yourself to read more? Chris was ordering a pair of @tuk_footwear so I finally took the plunge.

I had a hard time choosing just one pair, but I'm so in love.

These do run a bit big for a size 7, I'm wearing stockings so they end up sliding. BUT these are so comfortable. I'm already planning my next pair.

Do you have a pair of Tuk? Tell me which ones! Eccentric, Organic, Magnetic

@skinowl is one of my favorite brands and honestly one of the most underrated in the clean/indie world.

The Maqui Berry Whip is a must have no matter what skin type and the Maqui Drops are one of my top 3 oils of all time.

Skin Owl actually has these sweaters available to have you choose the words best describe you and I felt these suited me. Especially lately.

If you watched my IG stories, you see I'm not fake. I've never been fake. I'm sorry I've been distant, but I'm always here for advice, and to listen. Always. @magicianssyfy is back on tonight, who's watching? 👸I was feeling very Margo today and rocked a key necklace which Chris made a Magicians comment about. The addiction is real.

On the face:
@colourpopcosmetics Bambi on the lips
@shirocosmetics Lingered In Twilight on the lid, Rebellion in the crease
@alimapure highlight in whisper, all over face and brow bone, inner corner
@noto_botanics lip + cheek tint
@wetnwildbeauty concealer all over face
@cloveandhallow concealer under eyes
@essencemakeup brow and lash mascaras Hands down one of the best scrubs I've ever tried.

@firmearte makes some of my favorite products, including their soap, but this one wins. The scent is basically a sexy AC Moore.

If you're into the coolest LGBTQ, witchy, gender queer, Latina x stuff....go support this brand. You know how Mac, Colourpop, Wet N Wild and Urban Decay all have a shadow that changes from brown to green and purple all at the same time?

THIS IS THEM IN A NAIL POLISH! I kid you not. This looks like Lounge, Bae and whatever the other names are.

It's absolutely stunning and photos don't so it justice one bit. It's one of my favorite polishes of all time.

Round of applause to @lepolish. The easiest and best vegan and gluten free burgers out there. Even Chris eats my burgers. Given he eats it with real cheese, but whatevveerrrr.

@drpraegers burgers are my fav, but I also alternate with @aldiusa and @gardein.
No bread compares to @odoughs, especially these new sandwich buns.
@fieldroast Chao original cheese is my fav, tastes like provolone and muenster had a baby.
Pickles, lettuce, ketchup, avocado.
You're welcome. Outfit inspo is all @esteelalonde. I usually only wear these jeans in the summer, but have been so inspired by Estee and her combat boot/cropped jean outfits.

This is definitely something I'll be incorporating more.

Vegan boots from @callitspring, thrifted jeans are originally @uniqlousa, beanie is @obeyclothing, and my classy jacket is @kensie_clothing. @moonbodysoul shared some routille on her feed today, so I was inspired to share routille, shining with a rainbow on a smokey.

As many of you know, smokeys and rainbows are my weakness, so to find a piece with both AND routille, was a gift from the gods. Literally.

I cant recommend smokey enough for grounding, for security, for stress and anxiety. It's the one I gravitate towards most and feel mediated from.

My favorite shop where this piece is from is @villagesilversmithrocks. I've kept the shop a secret for a while, but sharing the love. Tell them I sent you.
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#crystallove #crystals #crystal #smokey #smokeyquartz #routillatedquartz #quartz #rainbow #smokeyrainbow #crystalhealing #crystalgems #nature #natural #villasilversmith #vsrocks #spiritualwitch #spiritual #spirituality #spiritualhealing New year, new self love!

I've been really into my self the past couple months, whether it's because of my hair or doing my makeup every day.....who cares. I'm all about it.

What makes you feel super loved by YOU?! @fairygirl Earth on the lips
@colourpopcosmetics Partridge on the lids
@noto_botanics lip +cheek tint on the cheeks
@essencemakeup brow and lash mascaras
@cloveandhallow concealer always
@wetnwildbeauty concealer always
@colourpopcosmetics Stole The Show hiigghhllight Today I went to the @acsbridalexpo and although it was a lot, it was refreshing to have everything all in one place. While my wedding isn't until next year, I'm trying to just get everything planned and out of the way.

I really liked this photo from this photographer (who I cant remember), but mostly I fell in love with this dress.

For me the dress and photography has been the hardest thing for me. As a photographer it's been a struggle finding someone I've fallen in love with within my budget.

When it comes to the dress, oh goodness today was eye opening. Dresses over $1000. No thank you. I just can't and won't justify it. Does anyone have any eco friendly options or recommendations?
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#bridalexpo #bride #njbride #wessingexpo #acsbridalexpo #acsbridal #acsbridalsweepstakes #weddingphotography #weddingdress #wedding #weddinginspo Are you ready for the first new moon?

This one comes with a partial solar eclipse. If you have intentions and resolutions, now's  the time to manifest the crap out of them!

I've already been feeling the strength of this eclipse, this morning had me so flustered, but I'm looking forward to the work it'll do to my intentions.

I'll share mine on a post soon. Till then, enjoy my peacock aka chalcopyrite.
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#spiritualwitch #spiritual #spiritualhealing #healing #chakras #peacock #chalcopyrite #teal #purple #rainbows #rockcrystal #crystals #crystal #cleanse #newmoon #energy #positivity #spiritualawakening #spirituality #crystallove #solareclipse #manifestation The only way to ever invite a new year, a new change, or to remove any negativity,  drama, and unwelcome energy.

Sometimes it's the little rituals that make all the difference. Like resetting and clearing out your closet and drawers, doing laundry, sitting down and setting intentions for the new year.

While I'm proud of many people for taking the initiative, remind yourself that with every full and new moon, you have the chance to change. Don't wait to depend on the new year to make a change you already want to implement.

Thanks for joining my Ted talk. Spent all day yesterday with a huge migraine, puking my brains out. Stomach bug or whatever it is, I couldn't eat anything.

I literally just sat by the toilet or in bed all day. I'm glad I'm better today. I needed food, since I couldn't hold anything yesterday and treated myself to @inspirationroll_morristown.

All the salty broth was what I needed.

Anyways, hears to starting the new year not puking.

I'll be working on intention and doing a blog post. What are you setting up for 2019? I'm watching @veganbodegacat macaroni and cheese adventures in the city, and I can't stop thinking about the cheese fries from @chickpeaandolive.

Honestly, New York vegans are so freaking lucky with all their choices and I miss going monthly just because of the food.

If you haven't been to @chickpeaandolive yet, you must. Their Phatty Melt is my favorite vegan burger in NY. Merry Christmas Eve. What are your plans today?

If you don't have plans RIGHT NOW, you should go read my q&a with the magical and down to earth lady behind @miakodanewyork!

I'm actually wearing my full moon leggings as I type this, and always have her bras on. I don't wear any other bra.

What are you hoping is under your tree this year? You guys seem to really like red lips and naked looks on me.

Also, thank you all so much for all the love on my engagement this year.

This year was a tough one, from getting laid off twice in one year, to being super depressed, broke and anxious all the time. I've begun opening up more about my issues and it feels like such a release.

Thank you all for being a part of my journeys. Hoping to make 2019 better than this year. Happy Winter Solstice! I'm looking forward to a long much deserved and needed weekend. What are your plans?

This candle from @dollymoobody has seriously been putting me in the spirit despite presents not being wrapped.

It smells like a straight up pine tree and I'm all about it! I need a back up innediately. Christmas all year round? Here for it. 💋🎄'Tis the season for red lips.

Eyes: @colourpopcosmetics super shock shadow in Rex, brow bone highlight @thebalm in Mary Lou
Lips: @100percentpure pomegranate lipstick in Poppy
Brows: @essencemakeup Brow Gel
Face: @cloveandhallow concealer and @wetnwildbeauty foundation
Highlighter: @milkmakeup in Lit (my #1)
Mascara: @essencemakeup Lash Princess
Blush: @noto_botanics in Oscillate (obsessed) It's not official until you blog about it. I wrote all about how Chris proposed to me, shared some photos along with mentioning my panic attack.💍 You may be surprised that I mentioned that at all, but life isn't all butterflies and rainbows. I struggle with anxiety and depression in which both have caused massive panic attacks all my life.

I want to be real with everyone and anyone and ensure you know it's ok to be anxious during a time of happiness. Nothing is wrong with you, and one day you'll find someone who expects that very reaction from you.