Tara Button
Tara Button cares deeply about what we buy, and why. As founder of Buy Me Once and author of A Life Less Throwaway, she’s spent years championing long-lasting products and thoughtful living. Her books offer practical ways to live with less, but better – from buying habits that stick, to clearing the clutter for good. Worth a read, if you’re looking to make more considered choices.
FAQs about Tara Button and Her Mission
Who is Tara Button and what inspired her to start Buy Me Once?
Tara Button is the founder of Buy Me Once, a movement dedicated to sustainable, long-lasting buying choices. The spark? A cast iron pot she got for her birthday - solid, useful, heirloom-worthy. Realising most things weren’t built to endure, she left her job in advertising to spotlight durable alternatives. From cookware to clothing, the goal is simple: buy things once, love them for life.
What is 'A Life Less Throwaway' about, and who should read it?
A Life Less Throwaway is Tara Button’s guide to escaping throwaway culture and embracing mindful, long-lasting choices. If you're overwhelmed by clutter or tired of buying the same things twice, this book’s for you. It blends personal stories with practical advice to help you build a calmer, more intentional way of living - starting with what you own.
How does Tara Button define mindful consumption?
Tara Button defines mindful consumption as buying only when something truly adds value. It means choosing long-lasting, well-made items over quick fixes or fast fashion. Her “mindful curation” method encourages thoughtful decisions that reduce waste, save money, and lead to a more satisfying life. Think fewer regrets, more keepers.
What are Tara Button’s top tips for living with less and buying better?
Tara Button’s top tips for buying better include pausing before you purchase - 30 days, if it’s non-essential. Only buy things that are useful, durable, and responsibly made. Go gently when decluttering and start with small swaps, like reusables over single-use. For more on Tara's own journey, take a look at declutter-your-life-forever-the-miracle-of-mindful-curation.
Which are the most reliable insights from Tara Button on buying for life?
Among Tara Button’s most reliable insights is “cost-per-use”: spending more upfront for a product that truly lasts. She favours lifetime guarantees, repairable designs, and products proven to go the distance. Her mindful curation method helps cut clutter and boost satisfaction. You can see how we back up these principles in our product research process.
How do Tara Button’s ideas support a more sustainable lifestyle?
Tara Button’s ideas support a more sustainable lifestyle by encouraging quality over quantity. Choosing lasting items means less waste, fewer resources used, and more thoughtful consumption. She backs repair over replacement and buying only what’s needed. It’s a bit like voting with your wallet - for better products and better practices.
How can I apply Tara’s advice to care for and maintain my belongings?
Tara Button suggests treating your things like you plan to keep them forever. A bit of upkeep - like oiling wood or sharpening tools - goes a long way. Store things properly and repair them when needed. It’s surprisingly satisfying, and helps your stuff last longer. Check out our product care and repair resources for tailored tips.
