Eco-Friendly Alternatives for Cozy Fall Decor

Fall is here, and don't we all love some cozy seasonal decor?

It really helps brings the season to life, especially here in Phoenix, where fall is more a state of mind than a change in the leaves.  We have to stir ourselves up with our pumpkin spice lattes and little gourds tucked into random corners, since it's definitely too warm for sweater weather yet.

Did you know that there are sustainable ways to enjoy the changing of the seasons?

Fall is the kickoff of the busy season of festivities and holidays to be celebrated, but it also begins the time of year that contributes to a large about of the waste our country produces.  From pumpkins that end up in landfills, to costumes that equate to tons of plastic waste, it all adds up quickly. The good news is that also means that anything you do to reduce this waste in your home will add up to a positive impact for the environment. Now that's a true homey spirit!

Here are some ways you can reduce waste and help the environment in a more ethical way this fall season:

Compostable Decor 

Did you know that the majority of the 900,000 tons of pumpkins produced for the fall season will end up in the landfill? We love the ability to use real pumpkins over plastic, but rather than leaving them to rot away on the porch, what else could they be used for? You can use the insides to make pumpkin pies and breads; you can cook a soup inside one of these hollowed out squashes; they can be upcycled into bird feeders; lastly they can also be added to your composting, and can eventually be used to fertilize your garden next year.  The options are limitless!

Non-toxic Fall Candles 

We love a good candle as much as the next person, but did you know that the candle industry has a negative impact on the environment through their use of paraffin wax, which is the most commonly used wax for candles? Paraffin is a petroleum product, so not only is it bad for the environment to produce, but it's also releasing massive amounts of toxins into your home with every use.

We love Calyan Wax Co for all our fall candle needs! All their candles are made with wax that's paraffin, paraben, and phthalate free, with no harmful artificial fragrances that act as a disruption to your hormones and endocrine system. They also give a portion of their proceeds to organizations that fight back against human trafficking in the U.S, making these candles not only sustainable, but mission minded.  Check out the collection here!
nontoxic soy candles

Ceramic Pumpkin Made By Survivors

If you're looking for a new piece of fall decor for your mantel, this is the perfect piece for you! These ceramic pumpkins are hand made by survivors of human trafficking, as well as escaping homelessness and domestic abuse. Available in orange or white, add a fun fall touch and make an impact in the lives of those who are working for a second chance. Get yours here!

anti trafficking brands

Pumpkin Garland

Looking for a festive fall touch to your home decor? Look no further! We've just added these felt pumpkin garlands to the shop, and we're obsessed! Made from eco friendly materials and nontoxic dyes, this garland will make your home a little extra cozy this fall. Get yours here.

ethical fall decor phoenix az

Hand Woven Baskets From Rwanda

These woven baskets are handmade by artisans in Rwanda, crafted from a sweetgrass call sisal! Whether you use it as table decor or to hang on your wall, this unique design will add a more personal touch to any room. Who needs mass produced decor that everyone else will have, when you could go for something more individual? Get yours here!
boutiques in phoenix


Thrifted Decor

Thrifting decor has never been easier or more accessible! Seasonal decor tends to be such a revolving door, which is purchased and often discarded when the season is over, which means that it's often easy to find decor in secondhand stores that's still very trendy! Stop by your local thrift store and keep an eye out for fall wreaths, door mats, and more when looking to decorate.

For more ethical fall decor check out our Fall Shop!

Redemption Market is a woman owned social impact shop in Phoenix, Arizona, featuring curated ethical and fair trade goods. Their give back brands support anti-trafficking programs around the world. Find Redemption Market at one of four locations of The Merchantile in Phoenix or Scottsdale- read more about their retail space in Phoenix Magazine. Or, visit the pop-up shop at the Downtown Phoenix Farmer's Market, as featured in AZ Central's Farmer's Market guide.