Reed diffusers as a fund raiser.

[sparrowgrass]

I am working with our local animal rescue group, and we are always looking for ways to raise money.

I was in a fancy gift shop the other day, and saw some reed diffusers--glass bottles filled with what look like BBQ skewers, with a bit of scented oil in the bottom. The reeds are supposed to wick the fragrance into the room.

Anyhow, we are thinking about making the reed diffusers as a fund raiser for the critters.

Has anyone purchased a diffuser? How much would you be willing to pay? (The ones I saw in the store were about $10.) What scents do you like?

We are thinking of decorating the bottles with dog/cat/animals beads or charms, and advertising them as a solution to pet odors.

[sneezles]

I think it's a very cool idea! I saw the diffusers not too long ago and thought it was a great alternative to candles or incense (both of which can be messy) and the added bonus of not having to light them or remember to put out the flame.

$10 seems a reasonable price depending on how much oil and how many reeds you include with the package.

And doing a variety of scents, including typical holiday scents, would cover most people. I'm partial to cinnamon-apple, vanilla, berries and such.

[zackaboo]

Neat idea and something a little different from the norm. I think $10 actually sounds reasonable - especially considering it is a fundraiser.

Personally I am drawn to the woodsy scents. I get migraines and anything too sweet is likely to trigger a major headache for me.

Good luck with your fundraiser!

[Beth]

I didn't like the idea at all. I forwarded it to the president of the local dog park club to consider for an upcoming fundraiser before the holidays. ;) She is working on me to adpt another lab, so maybe this idea will buy me some time. :D

Specialtybottle.com might be a good place to look for small bottles.

The charms could really eat into your profit margin. If so, another thing to consider would be a ribbon with dogs, cats, paw prints, or just a tag printed on cardstock. Tie a dog biscuit in the bow -- something for fido and something for you.

Have fun with the idea, and good luck with the fundraiser.

[Missi]

Great idea!

I have one in my office, since anything burning is out of the question. It has lasted a long time (since January), and I will definately replace it when it's gone.

I would pay $10 for sure.

[sparrowgrass]

I just did a field trip to our local store, and they have plain glass bottle diffusers for $10. I didn't open the box, but I am assuming they come with a little bottle of scent.

I was thinking of buying essential oils and mixing it with some neutral oil, putting a half ounce or so in the bottle, and then capping or corking. Reeds could be tied in a bundle and attached to the bottle so folks at the festival can carry them around.

If we include a whole bottle of fragrance with the diffusers, it would cut into our profits.

I made one last night with an antique bottle from my windowsill, some BBQ skewers, and lemon essential oil.

The kitchen smelled wonderful this morning.