In recent years the impulse to “green” our lives, or make them more environmentally friendly has been growing stronger. In doing so, we aim to use items that are either reusable, recyclable, or have been made from recycled or natural materials. Entertaining has not been left out of this trend as manufacturers have responded to consumer demand. Follow one or more of these suggestions the next time you host a party to proudly show your green colors.
1. Replace Paper Plates with Melamine Plates
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Stock up on a fun assortment of reusable melamine plates for your outdoor parties when you don't want to bring out your breakable dishes. They come in a variety of designs and colors and you can mix and match them to enhance the theme of your party.
2. Use Your China, or Rent Dinnerware for Easy Clean-Up
I think most people would agree that using paper plates isn't particularly good for the environment, and neither do they make as good an impression as using your everyday or special occasion china. But then there's that small matter of clean up after your party. If you can't bear the thought of a sink full of dirty dishes, investigate the possibility of renting dinnerware, flatware, and glasses for your party. When the party's over, you'll just need to load the mess into boxes for the rental company to take away and do the washing for you.
3. Choose Compostable Plates if You Need to Use Disposable Party Goods
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There are times when you are still going to want to use disposable plates at your party. For example, if you're planning a large family reunion at the beach, or a kids party at the park, you're not going to want to cart home dirty dishes. In that case, choose compostable paper goods and you can be sure they won't be sitting in the landfills when your great grandchildren have their birthday parties.
4. Go Paperless by Using Online Invitation Services
Hosts have really caught on to this trend of going paperless by using online invitation services or sending email invitations on their own. However, if the occasion if so formal that you must use a paper invitation, choose one on recycled paper.
5. Compostable Forks Can Replace the Usual Plastic Party Goods
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Instead of using plastic forks, knives and spoons, you can use your everyday cutlery, rented place settings, or choose compostable versions of these items when the real thing will be too difficult to transport.
6. Replace Paper Napkins with Inexpensive White Cloth Napkins
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Replacing paper with cloth napkins is both environmentally friendly and good for your budget over the long haul since paper party goods really add up over time. Choose durable, white napkins for easy washing after your party is over.
7. Skip the Plastic Table Coverings and Use a Washable Table Runner Instead
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A table runner is just enough to make your table look finished, but not such a big deal to wash after your party. Buy table runners in a variety of colors so you're prepared for any occasion.
8. Decorate with Natural Materials
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Use natural materials such as seashells, leaves, potted plants, or bowls of fruit, nuts, and veggies. They are often less expensive than party store decorations, and they can be reused or eaten.
9. Give Party Favors that Can Be Planted or Eaten
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Instead of sending your guests home with something that will clutter up the kitchen counter or be tossed in a few weeks, give something they can really use. Packets of seeds that can be planted in the spring; small potted plants that can be enjoyed on the windowsill; personalized candy or cookies that will be savored when a sweet tooth strikes.
