An absolutely irresistible brunch invitation: 2/18/23. Click for more!

Throw a soiree the eco-friendly way

From simple to 'go-the-extra-mile' ideas.

By Samantha A. Wilber on Mon, Jul 18, 2011 at 10:00 am

IMPRESSIVE IDEAS: These ideas have a little more impact for a medium amount of effort.

Make your own invitations.
It’s easy to make your own hand-written or printed invitations. Doing so saves you money and avoids the excess waste and products found in pre-made cards. To earn extra 'green points', use recycled paper!

Have recycling bins.
You can rent recycling bins for paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum for your event. Just having the bin available will impress your guests, and recycling companies can even pick up the bins right after your event ends.

REALLY IMPRESSIVE IDEAS: Go the extra mile with these more challenging ideas.

Use certified organic catering.
It may more, but your guests will surely appreciate the healthy, organic foods over standard catered food.

Dress the part.
Gorgeous wedding and party attire can be found that was created in an eco-friendly manner. Look for labels compliant with the Fair Trade Federation. The Eco-Beautiful Weddings website and magazine are a great place to look. Or save resources by buying gently used dresses, accessories and jewelry at RecycledBride.com.

Get an event planner!
Exquisite Events is a great company located in Tampa Bay dedicated to these ideas that can help make your Earth conscious event perfect (and relieve some of the stress of planning it).

[
      {
        "name": "Ad - NativeInline - Injected",
        "component": "12461396",
        "insertPoint": "3",
        "requiredCountToDisplay": "5"
      },{
        "name": "Real 1 Player (r2) - Inline",
        "component": "12436357",
        "insertPoint": "2/3",
        "requiredCountToDisplay": "9"
      }
    ]

click to enlarge

Eco-Beautiful Weddings

Use recycled paper for invitations.

click to enlarge

Eco-Beautiful Weddings

Use recycled paper for invitations.

Use recycled paper for invitations.

Adding a ‘green’ theme to any event gives it special flair and lets your conscience rest easy. Every event of any size, from small get-togethers to weddings, can benefit from being more environmentally friendly. These ideas range from simple to impressive, but are all sure to make an impact. Your guests and the planet will appreciate your effort.

SIMPLE IDEAS: A little effort can make a big difference.

Avoid plastic utensils. Party guests can go through a lot of plastic. Bringing silverware from home reduces waste and looks nicer.

Don't want to splurge on flatware rental but hate disposable plates? If you have to use disposable plates, opt for paper plates instead of plastic. Even better: look for plates and napkins made from recycled paper for your event. They're becoming more available at grocery and party stores, and you can even find them online.