Green Friday

Conscious Consumerism: Why it Matters

As Black Friday beckons, you may be looking forward to shopping online for splash prices on items you may have had an eye on for a while. Ever since Black Friday has become a thing here in Ireland, we've seen customers fighting over discounted goods in limited quantities. 

Why we're not taking part in Black Friday?

In our eyes, it's not a good look and, we believe that  Black Friday promotes over-consumption of products and unnecessary panic shopping.

As well as this, (well for us in our position), Black Friday is almost impossible for small independent retailers and artisan brands to partake in, considering our business size in comparison to the large multinational companies!

Not only does Black Friday contribute to bad shopping habits, it only adds junk to the household, with many of the purchases leading to be unwanted and thrown out, which just adds more pollution to the environment.

Green Friday

So this year we will be taking a stand on this and getting involved in Green Friday. Green Friday challenges customers to quit the rush to the shops and choose to look elsewhere at smaller sustainable brands, or maybe not shop at all! We believe it's time to practice conscious consumerism. Think before you purchase and ask yourself - "Will I really use this? or "Will the person I'm buying this gift for really appreciate it?"

To conclude the above, there are plenty of ways to be more conscious. 

1)Shop local

2) Support more independent stores

3) Visit local markets

4) Pay attention to packaging

5) Resist the impulse buy! 

Download free PDF Info graphic 

green friday

 

 

Halloween_candles_beeswax

Guiding Lights: The Significance of Candles in Samhain Traditions

Candles played a central role in the observance of Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival in which Halloween is rooted. This warm, flickering light was not only believed to guide ancestral spirits back to the mortal realm but also served as a beacon of hope in the face of encroaching darkness.

Here are 6 interesting reasons why candles were so important in the Celtic tradition!

Millbee pure sustainably sourced beeswax candles

1) Guiding Ancestral Spirits

Samhain is a time when it's believed that the veil between the physical world and the spiritual realm is at its thinnest. Candles were lit to provide a source of light to guide the spirits of departed ancestors back to the mortal realm. This act was seen as a way to honor and welcome them.

 

2) Symbol of Light into Darkness

As Samhain marked the transition into winter, days grew shorter and nights longer. Candles served as literal and symbolic sources of light during this dark time, representing hope, warmth, and the triumph of light over darkness. Millbee's Beeswax Candles emit a warm, golden light that resembles the natural spectrum of sunlight. This sun-like glow makes them perfect for combatting the approaching long, dark evenings!

 

3) Protection and Warding 

It was believed that during Samhain, malevolent spirits and otherworldly entities were more active. Candles were used as a form of protection, as their light was thought to ward off negative energies and unwanted influences.

Halloween candles_ Beeswax

 

4) Ritual and Ceremony

Candles played a central role in Samhain rituals and ceremonies. They were lit to signify the beginning and end of specific rites, acting as a representation of the sacred fire.

 

5) Aid in Divination and Reflection 

Samhain was considered a powerful time for divination and seeking guidance from the spiritual realm. Candles provided a focal point for meditation, scrying (a form of divination), or other practices aimed at connecting with intuition and gaining insight.

 

6) Decoration and Ambiance 

Just like today, celts used candles as a form of decor. Candles contributed to the overall atmosphere and aesthetics of Samhain celebrations. They created a cosy, mystical ambiance that enhanced the sense of connection with the spiritual world. To replicate this snug atmosphere in your home this Samhain, try Millbee's aromatherapy candles

Halloween candles_beeswax
October 03, 2023 — sinead linden
Difference between beeswax and paraffin candles

Difference between beeswax and paraffin candles

What is beeswax?

Beeswax is a renewable, all-natural wax made by honeybees. Because of its non-toxic qualities, it is ideal for use as a bright, clean-burning fuel source in candles. Beeswax candles burn cleanly and produce very little soot when lit properly. To burn properly they need to be kept away from drafts and the wick needs to be trimmed after each burn.

Beeswax_candles

What is paraffin?

A non-renewable wax produced as a by-product of crude oil, coal, or oil shale is called paraffin wax. To make paraffin into a product that can be used, it is chemically processed and finely refined. It is not a fuel source that burns cleanly or brightly.

5 reasons why beeswax candles are better than paraffin 

  1. Beeswax candles are natural and non-toxic, while paraffin candles are made from petroleum and release harmful chemicals into the air when burned.

  2. Beeswax candles burn longer and cleaner than paraffin candles, as they produce less soot and smoke.

  3. Beeswax candles have a natural sweet scent, while paraffin candles often contain synthetic fragrances that can be irritating to some people.

  4. Beeswax candles have a beautiful, warm glow that can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

  5. By choosing beeswax candles, you are supporting beekeeping and the important role that bees play in pollinating our crops and ecosystem.


In summary, burning paraffin candles excessively can release soot and chemicals into the air, which can accumulate on walls and ceilings, causing discoloration and potentially damaging the paint or wallpaper. In addition, the chemicals released can negatively affect indoor air quality and can be harmful to breathe in, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Ultimately, it's best to limit the use of paraffin candles and opt for natural alternative like beeswax or sustainably sourced soy candles.

Millbee’s vision is to produce fair and ethically sourced products that is both healthy for the customer and the environment combined to keep a sustainable world and ecosystem.

For further information on products check out Millbee's beeswax candles.

beeswax wraps uses

Alternative ways to use beeswax food wraps

Beeswax food wraps have become an increasingly popular alternative to plastic wraps for storing food. Made from cotton fabric coated with beeswax, they are reusable and biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly option. However, beeswax wraps can be used for many uses. In this blog, we will explore some alternative ways to use beeswax food wraps.

 1. Wrap pastry in clingfilm 

How many times do we see in a recipe that says to wrap up pastry in clingfilm and chill? Well, it doesn't need to be this way. Beeswax wraps can do the same job. Just wrap tightly so there's no air. You can even use them in the freezer. If using in the freezer, just allow to come to room temperature before unfolding. 

Chill dough clingfilm

2. Make a popcorn snack cone

Turn a beeswax wrap into a cone by grabbing a corner and folding into cone shape. You can fold down at the top to secure. These cones are handy for many other snacks such as pretzels or crisps! The beeswax wrap cones give a fun snacking experience for kids and they are reusable too! 

Popcorn recipe

3. Make a pouch for snacks.

Beeswax wraps can be turned into pouches for snacks like nuts and dried fruit. Simply fold the wrap in half and then fold the sides in to create a pouch. Fill the pouch with your favorite snacks and then fold the top down to seal.

homemade snacks

4. Use when proving dough.

Use to cover bowl of dough when proofing. You can also use to keep bread wrapped up and fresh once cooled!

proving dough clingfilm

5. Missing a jar lid

Missing a jar lid? Why not use a small beeswax wrap to seal a reused jar. You could also use wraps as a grip for opening stuck lids.

missing jar lid hack

6. Wrap homemade food gifts.

Beeswax wraps can also be used as gift wraps. Instead of a bottle of wine or chocolates why not make some homemade bread or scones as a gift when visiting family of friends. Simply wrap the gift in the wrap and then tie it with a ribbon or string. The wrap can be reused by the recipient as a food wrap or for one of the other alternative uses listed above.

homemade wrapped food gift 

In conclusion, beeswax food wraps are versatile and can be used for more than just wrapping food. They are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap and can be reused multiple times. Try out some of these alternative uses for beeswax wraps and reduce your reliance on single use plastics. If you would like to give Millbee's beeswax wraps a try here's a 10% discount to help you along on your plastic free journey - BEE10

irish_soda_bread

Irish Soda Bread: A Brief History, Recipe and How to Keep Fresh for longer

 

Irish soda bread is a traditional bread that has been enjoyed in Ireland for centuries. It is a quick and easy bread to make, and it has a unique flavor and texture that sets it apart from other breads. In this blog post, we will explore a brief history of Irish soda bread, provide a recipe for making your own, and offer tips on how to keep it fresh.

History of Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread was first made in the mid-1800s.  At that time, traditional leavening agents like yeast were not available. Instead, they used baking soda and buttermilk to make their bread rise. The result was a simple, rustic bread that was perfect for everyday meals. In Irish folklore, the cross on top of the soda bread is believed to have protective powers against evil spirits, including fairies and the devil.

Recipe for Irish Soda Bread

Ingredients:
  • 4 cups flour

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda.

  3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the buttermilk. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly for 1-2 minutes.

  5. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  6. Use a sharp knife to score an 'X' on the top of the loaf.

  7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

  8. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

irish_soda_bread_storage

How to Keep Irish Soda Bread Fresh

Irish soda bread is best eaten fresh, but it can be kept for a few days if stored properly. Here are some tips on how to keep your bread fresh:

  • Wrap the bread tightly a large beeswax wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also store your bread wrapped up in a beeswax wrap in the freezer for up to 3 months. 

  • Store the bread at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

  • If the bread starts to become stale, revive it by sprinkling a little water on the crust and reheating it in the oven for a few minutes.

In conclusion, Irish soda bread is a delicious and easy bread to make that has a rich history in Ireland. With this recipe and tips on how to keep it fresh, you can enjoy this traditional bread anytime.

March 15, 2023 — Jennifer Doyle
Five Reasons To Visit Christmas Markets This Christmas

Five Reasons To Visit Christmas Markets This Christmas

Christmas markets are a wonderful place to roam during the cold winter evenings with family and friends, which will no doubt get you into the Christmas mood!

Below, are five reasons to visit Christmas Markets!

1. The Beautiful Light Displays

Some of the light displays are just spectacular, The Galway Christmas Markets is one I do recommend seeing! The sight of lights glittering and twinkling around the markets is just priceless.

2. Buy Local Artisan Gifts

Whether you are shopping for the kids or the adults, Christmas Markets tend to tick all the boxes. There is nothing better than supporting local and to say the least, markets are full of them! From handmade gifts to artisan foods, you'll easily find something quiet unique not available elsewhere!

3. Listen to live Christmas Music

The vast majority of markets nowadays have carols playing from the speakers, or in some cases from actual carolers!

Christmas Carols are the ultimate way to spring yourself into the Christmas feeling!

4. Ice Skating

Some Christmas Markets now include ice rinks. Ice skating brings the family together, full of cheer and laughter. I recommend the Waterford Interval. Their ice rink is amazing, the cold chilled feeling alongside the Christmas music really adds to that Christmas vibe as you skate around. Well worth visiting.

5. Try Unique Foods

The Belfast Christmas Markets is another hugely popular market in Ireland. At the market, expect to find a huge food court with cuisines from over 32 different countries!

We Hope You Enjoyed This Short Blog Post On Reasons To Visit Christmas Markets! There Is Some Really Fantastic Ones Across Ireland, Do Make Sure You Try And Visit One Before The Christmas Season Comes To A Halt!

 

 

December 12, 2022 — Scott Meleady
How to have a Halloween themed movie night

How to have a Halloween themed movie night

Halloween night has become a ritual to watch a movie in most households. After a long day of going from house to house with your little one's trick or treating, it's so nice to wind down in the night and relax on the sofa with candles and a roaring fire. Anyway, we would like to share different ways in how to have a Halloween themed movie night, with one of the ways weather permitting!

1. The Location

The first decision we recommend making is deciding WHERE to host your Halloween movie night! You may decide to sit beside the fire and put your feet up, or you may be adventurous! If you decide to go spooky, and watch a movie outdoors, we recommend setting up a projector out the back garden with pumpkins lit up- the ideal Halloween feel!

2. Choice Of Food

As always, you can just never go wrong with chocolate snacks and of course popcorn! Why not place your popcorn inside our Food Wraps? Turn our medium size wrap into a cone by grabbing a corner and folding into cone shape. You can fold down at the top to secure. These cones are handy for many other snacks such as pretzels or crisps! The beeswax wrap cones give a fun snacking experience for kids and they are reusable too!

3. Create The Cozy Atmosphere

There is no need to over-decorate your house at all, but as mentioned above, we do recommend some light-up pumpkins around the house definitely! Our Beeswax Dipped Candles are also the perfect addition to the movie night and will produce a warm glow to keep you cozy!

4. Make it smell like Halloween!

Lighting those pumpkins hours before the movie will enhance that Halloween smell and experience if you like! We recommend lighting the pumpkin in the room two hours before you plan to sit down and watch the movie!!

Whatever you have going on around the Halloween period, I hope you enjoy it. We would love to see photos of your Halloween movie night, please do send them on!

October 24, 2022 — Scott Meleady
Barmbrack

The Traditional Irish Barm Brack

As the first week of October beckons upon us, another holiday season is just around the corner.  From the kids trick or treating to the adults baking treats for the family, we have decided to give our readers a delicious traditional Irish barmbrack recipe that will no doubt spice up your Halloween!

One of our stocklists, Hickeys Bakery who stock our own Beeswax Food Wraps, have been producing beautiful Barmbracks since the 1900s! 

 

ENTER COMPETITION TO WIN BREAD WRAP AND HICKEYS FAMOUS BARMBRACK

irish barmbrack

Barmbrack is a yeast bread that is typically added with flour, sultanas, and raisins. Did you know the recipe originated in Ireland? At Halloween, people tend to place a ring in the centre of the bread. It is thought that the person who finds the ring will be wed within the year!

Irish chef Donal Skehan has kindly let us share his delicious Barmbrack recipe. You can check out his website for more wonderful recipes here. 

Barmbrack

Barmbrack Ingredients:

Makes one 900g loaf

1) 225g plain flour

2) 2 tsps of baking powder

3) 375g packet of fruit mix

4) 250ml cold tea

5) 50ml of whiskey

6) 125g light brown sugar

7) 1 large eggs

8) 1/2 tsp of mixed spice

9) A ring to place inside

Barmbrack

Method:

  1. Place the fruit mix in a bowl and pour over the whiskey and cold tea. 
  2. Preheat the oven to 170˚C/327°/Gas Mark 3 and grease and line a 900g loaf tin. Combine the flour, baking powder, sugar and mixed spice in a mixing bowl. Make a well and break in the egg, using a wooden spoon, mix the egg with the dry ingredients. Add a little bit of the liquid the fruit mix is sitting in and mix it through. You may not need all the liquid, you are looking for a wet dough. Then stir through the fruit mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
  3. Add in the ring and stir through. Spoon the wet dough into the lined loaf tin and place in the oven on the middle shelf and bake for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before removing from the loaf tin and placing on wire rack.
  4. Allow to cool then cover and allow to sit for 1-2 days before cutting into it. Serve in slices spread with a little butter and good cuppa!

Why not try our Beeswax Food Wrap to cover your barmbrack? Our wraps are an organic, reusable substitute to clingfilm that will also keep your bread and cakes fresher for longer! We recommend our Large Beeswax Bread Wrap for the barmbrack recipe! Currently, our large beeswax bread wraps are on discount. You can purchase a single bread wrap for €20, or buy two packs and get 3% off, as well as three packs for 5% off!

 

October 04, 2022 — Jennifer Doyle
5 Ways To Keep Yourself Warm and Cozy This Autumn

5 Ways To Keep Yourself Warm and Cozy This Autumn

It's coming towards that time of the year again where the temperatures plummet, fevers become more prominent, and gas and heating bills stagger!  As we approach these seasonal changes I thought I'd share some tips on how to stay warm and cozy, in a more sustainable way!


1) Bring the Outside Environment Inside

If you are an outdoorsy person who loves to be surrounded by nature the cooler and darker days can feel gloomy. They don't need to be! You can introduce plenty of nature into your home through botanical prints and plants. Displays of warm-toned seasonal flowers such as dahlias and mum flowers are perfect for introducing some Autumn styling. Also, dried plants such as pampas grass and wheat mixed with flowers are a great long-lasting sustainable option.

2) Baking Your Favourite Treats 

The Autumn and Winter months are an ideal time to wind down and bake! Not only do you get to indulge in your artisan baked goods, it's also quiet therapeutic to bake, especially on a cold or wet afternoon. Imagine the smell of a freshly baked apple tart, a warm pudding dessert or your favourite bread. That's proper comfort food!  And if you want your bread to last longer, our Millbee Reusable Bread Wraps work great.

 Baking homemade bread

3) The Treasure of Beeswax Candles

Candles generate a fair amount of warmth, but most importantly add that extra special presence of light to your home! As referenced in the introduction, heating bills are skyrocketing. Candles can help to add a warm ambiance to your home.  Millbee's beeswax candles give the warmest glow.  In fact, beeswax candles emit light that is similar to the light spectrum of sunlight!

Beeswax_candles

4. Warm & cozy fabrics

Covering yourself with a quality throw will help regulate your body temperature, keeping you warm and cosy during the Autumn and Winter. Check out Mc Nutt of Donegal, they sell a beautiful range of soft soft merino lambswool throws with lots of warm tones.  Wearing Slippers and wool socks are another way to add coziness or hygge in your home! Check out these sustainable wool slippers from Reuzi

5. Introduce warm and comforting scents 

When it comes to Autumn, earthy, citrus and spicy scents come to mind. You can introduce warm scents through a diffuser or scented candles. We're currently working on new scented candles for the upcoming season and we are really excited to showcase these products to you! If you would like to be the first to know when we launch these new scent additions subscribe to our newsletter below.

Millbee's scented candles will be launched this Autumn. We are using a blend of natural waxes and essential oils (not fragrance)! Can't wait to share!
September 22, 2022 — Scott Meleady
5 ways to make your child's lunch plastic free

7 ways to make your child's lunch plastic free

For some of us, school lunches can be a bit of a challenge. Kids can go through phases of disliking certain foods or sometimes wanting what their friends have. It's not easy trying to please all the time! One thing I try to do is to offer options and to vary lunches from week to week. Also, considering the negative impact single-use plastic has on our environment I thought I'd share 7 ways to make your child's lunch plastic-free. So instead of using clingfilm, snack packs, and plastic yogurt pots which all contribute to polluting our landscapes, oceans, and rivers, here are some alternatives:

1. Swap single-use water bottles for reusable water bottles. Keeping two reusable bottles per child is a good idea to use for school and sport activities. Also, in case they forget to bring home!

2. Use a lunch box with compartments for chopped vegetables or fruit. Vegetables such as carrot sticks, cucumber, and sliced sweet peppers make great healthy snacks too!

3. Instead of plastic yogurt pots use recycled small jars (best for older kids) or smaller reusable tubs. You can fill these with chopped or stewed fruit, granola, rice pudding or even hummus (for dipping with bread or vegetable sticks)

4. Swap plastic utensils for stainless steel, BPA free plastic, or bamboo cutlery.

5. Make your own granola bars instead of using individual bars in plastic packaging. 

oat bar recipe
Try this delicious zero waste oat bar recipe from Sinead Delahunty. 

7. Swap clingfilm for beeswax food wraps. Beeswax food wraps are ideal for wrapping lots of foods such as sandwiches, wraps, scones, fruit, or vegetables. You can even make beeswax wrap sandwich pouches for lunch on the go!

5 ways to make your child's lunch plastic free

6. Make homemade snack packs and save on single-use packaging. You can buy food in bulk and fill with kids preferred snacks. Dried fruits, nuts, seeds, pretzels or even breakfast cereals such as cheerios will make an ideal snack pack. Check out Millbee's video below to learn how you can make a snack pack from beeswax wraps. 

If you would like to try Millbee's beeswax foods wraps to help create a plastic free lunch you can get 10% OFF using the code SCHOOL10 at the checkout. Offer ends 10th September 2022. 

August 24, 2022 — Jennifer Doyle
beeswr

5 Different ways To Use Your Beeswax Wraps This Summer

Wondering how to use your beeswax wraps in the Summer? When the sun is shinning it's best to make the most of it! Try to get outdoors and soak up some vitamin D. Here's 5 ways to use your beeswax wraps outdoors!

1. Picnics

When it comes to picnic I recommend a good strong basket. I picked up one in our local farmers market - a great investment! I love to bring bread and a knife with some sandwich fillers (cheese, ham, hummus) and prepare outside. Less prep time indoors! I usually have bread already wrapped in the pantry so it's just a matter of throwing it into the basket. 

2. Salads

Whether you are making a salad for your lunch-break or a social gathering you can prepare in advance and keep covered in the fridge till later. Keep the dressing separate and mix when ready to eat. You don't want soggy lettuce! As well as the health benefits, making your own salads can save money and you can be as creative as you like! 

3. Outdoor Activities

One plus to beeswax wraps is that they are lightweight and convenient. If you are going for a cycle or hike they don't take up much space and keep your food wrapped up tightly!

4. Sandwich Wraps

When it comes to eating on the go Millbee's lunch pack beeswax wrap sizes are ideal. You can make your sandwich in advance, wrap it in a sandwich pouch and all your fillings will stay intact! 

GET 5% OFF LUNCH WRAP WITH CODE SUMMER5.
* OFFER ENDS AUGUST 10TH 2022.

 

5. BBQ

Summer BBQ's are the best! You can marinade vegetable dishes in advance and leave over night in the fridge. The same goes for vegetable burgers. I love this 15 minute vegetable burger recipe from the Happy Pear. 

I hope you get some Summer inspiration from our 5 uses for Millbee's Beeswax Wraps. Enjoy your Summer!

 

August 05, 2022 — Jennifer Doyle
Spring tablescape

Home Inspiration: A beautiful Spring table setting

Looking for inspiration to decorate your table this Spring?

We are delighted to team up with talented designer and stylist Sarah from Retwiggd to bring you our Spring table setting. Sarah created the most beautifully styled table using Millbee's beeswax candles, organic napkins, Spring blossoms from her garden, old bottles, and vintage pots.

 Spring_table

The warm Spring colours and botanical prints add a beautiful freshness to the table. 

Yellow with Pink

Two of the colors I most associate with Spring are pink and yellow. We are surrounded by yellow daffodils and pink blossoms which are welcome after the muted and dark winter tones. In colour psychologypink and yellow are signs of hope. They are positive colours that inspire warm and comforting feelings, a sense that all will be well. Pink is also associated with love so I say yes to bringing more of this into the home! Have fun and mix more vibrant hues with darker ones. 

Botanical Prints

If you want to create the feeling of an abundance of flowers you can use botanical prints along with fresh blossoms. Don't be afraid to layer prints as Sarah did using Millbee's napkins and pink Burleigh print plate. 

 Spring_table

Millbee's organic cotton and hemp napkins

All about the Bees

Many people associate Springtime with bees. We love to see them buzzing around fresh blossoms after a long Winter indoors. You can also introduce these amazing creatures into your home through decorations. Botanical prints, bees and butterflies have featured for hundreds of years in our home decorations and are timeless. 

If you would like to get started on creating a seasonal display or gift to your favorite food lover we have 5% OFF Millbee's Food Lovers Giftset - Use the code TABLE5

March 25, 2022 — Jennifer Doyle