Whether you are still experimenting with ways to live sustainably or are an experienced pro at an increasingly eco-friendly life, a green party décor checklist is good to have on hand. The ultimate goal is hosting a zero-waste gathering, one that embraces only products and items that can be reused, recycled or composted.
Remember to emphasize quality over quantity. Purchase 25% less than normal when shopping, for everything from decorations to hors d’oeuvres. It’s likely that no one will miss the excess, and every effort aids the planet.
Cards
Send e-cards, or find snail-mail cards, invitations and thank-you notes made from recycled or tree-free materials and soy-based inks, via the internet (search “eco-friendly cards”).
Décor
The best decorations are handcrafted, made from 100% natural materials, and created at home, locally or by artisans in other countries earning fair wages. Avoid products containing non-recyclable plastics, lead, phthalates or other toxins.
Food and drink
Enjoy healthy party meals made from local and organic foods, to avoid genetically modified ingredients. Cut down on meats, while upping the fruit and veggie quotient. Select organic drinks and liqueurs, and wine with real cork stoppers. Compost all table scraps.
Gifts
Ideal presents are handmade, activity-based, consumable or charitable. Look for a fair trade stamp of approval, as well as use of natural, sustainable, reused or recycled materials. Forego anything over-packaged, mass-produced, disposable, cheaply made, of unknown origin or requiring lots of additional components.
Tableware
Favor reusable plates, glasses, utensils, napkins and tablecloths. For larger gatherings, borrow extra place settings from friends or family, rent them, or stock up at a consignment or thrift store. If you need to use disposable plates or cutlery choose products made from sustainable materials like bamboo or non-GMO cornstarch.
Wrapping
Creative giftwrap options include reusing decorative papers and traditional ribbons, raffia ribbons and repurposed fabrics.
Hosting a splashy party can be as enjoyable as it is eco-friendly. The key to going green is to plan ahead, get everyone involved, and make it fun.
Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson are mother and daughter, and co-authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.net.
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