Holiday party planning are three words that bring with them a unique mix of stress, excitement and fear. We love parties – giving them, going to them and even cleaning up after them – but the holiday party season isn’t always at the top of everyone’s list of things they want to do. Over the years we’ve compiled a list of our favorite ways to throw a green holiday party that doesn’t put you, your guests or the environment in danger!
Start with these green party planning tips:
Easy & eco friendly invitations
Paper invitations are so 10 years ago. E-vites (internet invites) are easy and earth friendly – two words we can’t get enough of. All you need are email addresses and your imagination. Explore popular invite sites for inspiration or create your own with a favorite graphic and eloquent phrasing.
Decorations made by Mother Nature
Green holiday parties are our favorites because the most beautiful decorations are natural and simple. Take a walk in the park and collect branches, pine cones, leaves and stones to use as materials for your custom decorations. Add beautiful fruits like oranges or pears along with cloves and cinnamon to bring your whole house to life with color and intoxicating smells. Visit a craft store or flea market to repurpose items into decorations and packaging for presents – we love old candelabras and beautiful vintage vases alongside nature-made decorations for an interesting mix of green and gorgeous.
Elegant table settings
Real china and silverware add unmatched polish to your table. Remember, real flatware doesn’t have to be expensive, in fact we prefer mismatched vintage pieces from local secondhand stores. Not only do these pieces add a sophisticated flair, but we love that they bring a snapshot of history along with them.
Local, sustainable food and drinks
We firmly believe that the best ingredients are sourced locally. Shop farmers markets, CSAs and local stores for seasonal, organic food to use for your holiday meal. Not only do local ingredients taste fresher, but you get the added benefit of supporting your community during a stressful time of year. Stick to buying local, organic or fair trade wine and beer options as well. Not only are they healthier, but your support for these small vineyards and micro-brews gives them the ability to support their families and improves their lives. If you end the evening with lots of leftovers, make arrangements with a local food bank or charity to donate what’s left instead of throwing it away.
Post-party clean up
Hire a green cleaning service to clear up when the festivities are over. Green cleaning services will use eco-friendly cleaning products made without toxins and chemicals. Clearly marked recycle bins are a must-have before, during and after the party for you and your guests to dispose of waste responsibly. Planning for the after-party clean up before the party starts takes the stress off you so you can relax and enjoy your night.
