What is Buy Me Once?
Buy Me Once is all about changing the way people shop by encouraging them to buy things just once—and love those things for a lifetime. It’s a simple message, but it runs deep. The project focuses on offering only long-lasting, durable products that have been carefully researched and vetted. The team behind Buy Me Once doesn’t just pick items at random; they dig into the story behind each product, how it’s made, and build genuine relationships with the makers. It’s about trust, quality, and making sure every product can stand the test of time.
The Main Benefit: Quality Over Quantity
At its core, Buy Me Once promotes a smarter way to shop that benefits both consumers and the planet. Here are some key points that highlight why this approach matters:
- Free UK shipping on all orders over £50, making it easier to access quality goods.
- Every purchase supports unique research into durable products, so customers get the best of the best.
- Products come with a focus on longevity—no throwaway culture here.
- The team personally tests and vets each item, ensuring it’s built to last.
- Encourages restoring, polishing, or fixing items instead of tossing them out.
The Philosophy Behind the Project
Buy Me Once isn’t just a shop; it’s a mindset. The idea is that when people buy something once, they form a deeper connection with it. Instead of treating possessions as disposable, the project encourages caring for them, understanding their value, and appreciating how some things only get better with age. This approach challenges the fast-paced, throwaway culture that dominates much of today’s consumer habits.
The Story of the Founder
Tara Button, the founder, was inspired by a simple yet powerful experience. She received a Le Creuset cast iron pot as a gift—a beautifully made, solid product backed by a lifetime guarantee. It made her wonder: why isn’t everything she owns like this? That question sparked the creation of Buy Me Once, a platform dedicated to finding and sharing products that are built to last, just like that pot.
How Buy Me Once Supports Sustainability
By promoting products that last, Buy Me Once helps reduce waste and the environmental impact of constant repurchasing. Instead of contributing to landfill overflow, customers are encouraged to restore and maintain their belongings. This approach aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle, where quality and durability take priority over quantity and convenience.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encouraging mindful purchasing and reducing waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Lowering carbon footprint by promoting long-lasting goods.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting sustainable manufacturing and reducing resource depletion.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Building meaningful relationships with trusted makers.
Why Buy Me Once Matters Today
In a world where fast fashion and disposable products dominate, Buy Me Once offers a refreshing alternative. It’s about slowing down, making thoughtful choices, and valuing the things we own. The project not only helps consumers find durable products but also fosters a culture of care, repair, and respect for craftsmanship. It’s a small shift with a big impact—one purchase at a time.
