Passover, Easter, and spring in general, often include gatherings with family and friends. If you’re the host or hostess, make the celebration one to remember with unique table decor and of course your favorite recipes. Fortunately, you can still go green even when preparing meals for a group and putting together a festive tablescape. Try incorporating some of these tips for an eco-friendly affair:
- Visit farmers’ markets or farms in your area for everything from organic produce to local wines. Try to choose foods that are in season and grown within 100 miles of your home.
- Instead of piling up empty bottles and cans, make large batches of beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or cocktails. For beer, a keg will cut down on waste.
Photo via Southern Living.
- Forgo plastic dinnerware and cups and hit up a thrift store. You can find everything you need on the cheap. Mix and match for an eclectic table. Don’t be afraid to go quirky when it comes to drink ware. Mason jars and jelly jars can add a rustic touch. To ensure that guests know which glass is theirs throughout the party, mark them with ribbons in different colors, wine glass charms, or even chalkboard paint (click here for a tutorial).
Branch Home Biodegradable Party Kit featured on Apartment Therapy.
- BPA-free re-usable cups and plates, made from recyclable materials, are an easy solution for younger guests. If you can’t live without disposable plates and serving dishes, either for the adults or little ones, purchase compostable items made from sustainable materials. Branch Home sells a Compostable Party Kit with service for 50 people.
- For a formal event, rent or borrow tableware. You’ll cut down on clutter and excess.
Photo via Focal Point Styling.
Photo via Good Housekeeping.
- Cloth napkins are a must. Thrift stores and yard sales can be a treasure trove for funky prints and affordable options. As for table cloths, table runners, and place mats, use family favorites, purchase second-hand ones, or splurge on new ones crafted from eco-friendly, fair-trade fabric or sustainable materials.
Photo via Austin Wedding Blog.
- Old wine bottles and jars are perfect for housing branches and seasonal flowers to serve as centerpieces. For party favors, add a succulent to each place setting. Whatever guests don’t take home can go right into your own garden or used as home decor. Want to make this succulent party favor in a vintage tea cup? Click on the link below the picture for instructions.
- Keep bins labeled “recyclable,” “compostable,” and “washable” visible.
- If you decide to serve food buffet-style, label each dish so that people with dietary restrictions can easily find something to eat. This will cut down on food waste.
Photo from Style Me Pretty via Eat Drink Pretty.
- To keep your trash can even lighter, make sure you send guests home with leftovers. Ask everyone to bring their own Tupperware container or let them borrow one of your green containers.
Do you have any tips for green entertaining?
