M Gandarinho

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Meet The Maker - Remember Me Green

February 04, 2019 by Melissa Gandarinho

When I was first introduced into the world of vegan accessories, I never thought anything about the material used or how ethical it could be. Truth be told, I just followed all the other vegans and got into vegan leather. While I love Deux Lux, there’s just something about being able to feel good about using a material that was ethically sourced, recycled, and reused. Now, I will admit the reason I know about Remember Me Green in the first place is because of Miakoda, and I don’t own anything else other than the wristlet, but when you know, YOU KNOW.

Not only do I admire Jillian for coming up with this idea, I applaud her for executing it so flawlessly. When it comes to living an ethical lifestyle, it’s not at all easy, especially when you’re vegan. But more and more brands are popping up and making it so easy and attainable to be able to live this lifestyle. I’m thankful and grateful that I can even SHARE this with you guys, and that not only can you buy and support the brand, but you can become aware of how EVERYTHING we do, goes back to damage the planet and the animals. You have the choice and chance to change it all by supporting brands like this.

Let’s learn all about Jillian’s thought process with Remember Me Green.


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No one would ever guess that your bags are made out of NYC billboards, how did this come to be? 

Billboard material is super durable since they hang outside for months at a time. I always wondered what happens to this material and when I found out it’s usually just thrown away, I knew there had to be a way to repurpose it. That’s how Remember Me Green came to be. We are creating unique bags and saving the planet at the same time. 

With each piece being special and different than one another, has there ever been one that you wanted to keep because of that? 

Yes, I’m in love with a new one almost everyday! We never know what billboard we are going to get so we really have to open it to find out exactly what’s inside. It’s so much fun creating new one of a kind accessories with every billboard.

With so many billboards and bags going in and out from your facility, and with each bag having it's own unique code, that allows the consumer to learn more about where their item came from, how do you keep track of it all?

Each billboard is tagged when it comes to our facility. They are then cut into long strips and rolled up by color. We are pretty organized when it comes to that.  As soon as one is done another one is opened and replaces it. 

With so many people going green, how do you think that has not only helped your business, but helped in regards to upcycling in general?

We only have one planet and it’s great to see more people wanting to do their part. Promoting eco friendly products really spreads the word. 

With that said, what are some fashion bloggers you wish would incorporate more green items in their wardrobe?

All of them! 

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If people are just starting with going green with their wardrobe, where do you recommend people start, whether it be brands or publications to learn more?

Instagram is a great way to find eco bloggers and influencers easily who share their favorite sustainable and green brands. There’s so much information on instagram, I find new environmental information and eco brands all time while scrolling.

You've been around for years, even before being 'green' became a thing. What is the hardest lesson you learned that impacted you or your brand?

It doesn’t happen overnight.  I thought when I first started that all I have to do is make a website and put up product and people are going to love it, feel passionate about your mission, and buy it. It takes a lot of patience and hard work to get your product out there, and a lot of patience to educate about buying eco friendly products. 

What are some of your favorite ways to be green and sustainable in your personal life?

Reuse and recycle whenever possible. I always say no to single use plastics. I’m always bringing my own utensils and cups when i’m out.  And of course I bring my Remember Me Green bags to go shopping with. I shop eco friendly clothing brands like Miakoda. Even my phone case was made from recycled plastic straws. If every person did a little bit, we’d be much further ahead. 

How did the Miakoda X RMG collaboration come to be? What was your favorite part of working with Julia?

Julia is the best! We met about 5 years ago at The Green Festival in New York City which is an event that showcases green products and services, and where people go to learn how to live healthier, more sustainable lives.

We clicked right away and have been great friends ever since. We are very like-minded and both run eco friendly brands it only felt natural to create something together. Last year we started our moon collaboration, which has been so successful that we add to the collection all the time.

Before RMG, what did you envision you'd be doing with your career? 

I have a degree in Business Management. Right after I graduated I worked in Retail Management. I always loved fashion. I’m glad it worked out the way it did. 

What is one of your guilty pleasures when it comes to food?

Ice cream! I love every flavor of So Delicious Cashew Milk ice cream.

Lastly, what is one thing people would never guess about you?

I’m a twin. 


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As you can see here, the wristlet holds everything that’s important. My wallet from Deux Lux, my inhaler, some coupons, a love note from Chris and a bunch of lip balms and crystals. I literally use this EVERY DAY and it has seen better days. It’s still in great quality and honestly, I don’t want anything else ever.

I do want to eventually get another one, maybe an actual bag, but I’m just so addicted to how handy this is.

What are your thoughts on using recycled billboards for wallets? What’s your favorite piece?

February 04, 2019 /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.