When Kelley Pacillas opened River City Refillery in New Braunfels, she wanted to make sustainable living easier for families. What began as a personal search for safer, cleaner products evolved into a mission to help the community. Inside her beautiful shop, Kelley offers eco-friendly home and wellness products that customers can refill again and again, cutting down on waste and making it simple to find smart swaps. Here, she shares how it all started and why every small change truly counts.
What inspired you to open River City Refillery and bring this kind of store to New Braunfels?
It actually took me a while to believe this was something the community wanted, not just me. I was working in corporate payroll and miserable. I knew I needed something different and felt this calling to create a space for people who were struggling to find trustworthy products. At first, people didn’t take me seriously. Bankers even laughed and said no one would shop at a store that just sells soap. But the community proved them wrong. Every day, people walk in excited to support this mission, and that still gives me chills.
Many people feel overwhelmed about switching to non-toxic or sustainable products. How do you help them start small?
I always tell people, don’t throw everything out at once. Ask yourself, what am I running out of? Start there. Replace that one thing, then come back when something else runs out. I’ve already done the research, so customers don’t have to stress. Making those gradual swaps keeps it manageable, and that’s really the point.
You talk a lot about wellness being connected to what we use every day. How do common products affect our health?
Our skin is our biggest organ, so what we put on it matters. So many mainstream products are filled with harsh ingredients and artificial fragrances that mess with hormones. Over time, all those exposures add up. I don’t think we’ve even seen the full effects yet. Once you start cutting those things out, you realize how much better you feel.
What are your dreams for River City Refillery’s future?
I want this shop to be more than just a place to buy things. I want it to be a hub for learning and connection. We have a back room that I’d love to turn into a space for community classes and small workshops. I want people to say, “Oh, that’s where I go for everything that makes me feel good about what’s in my home.”
For those who want to make a quick, meaningful change, what are your top three tips?
First, look at the three things you use most and swap those. Second, start reading labels. Avoid anything with “fragrance” or “sulfates.” Third, find community. Join a local group or ask questions online. It helps so much to learn together and take it one step at a time.
“You don’t have to change everything at once. Start where you are and grow from there.”