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How to Host a Sustainable Party for Your Next Gathering

How to Host a Sustainable Party
How to Host a Sustainable Party
How to Host a Sustainable Party

How to Host a Sustainable Party for Your Next Gathering

Whether you’re having a few friends over for dinner or the entire family, hosting an event in your home can produce unintentional waste — but with your eco-conscious mindset, we’re sure you’d love to minimize it! So we’ve compiled a list of simple tips to help you host a sustainable party and elevate your next gathering to planet-friendly status.

Craft a Cozy Vibe
Craft a Cozy Vibe
Craft a Cozy Vibe

For a warm and cozy gathering, set the tone by thinking outside the box for décor.

  • Choose natural elements that reflect the season. For example, foraging for berries, fallen twigs and pine cones from your yard can create a one-of-a-kind centerpiece.
  • Use what you already own. There’s no need to purchase brand-new everything to throw the perfect party. Light some candles you’ve had hidden away, and relocate indoor plants from your other rooms to liven up the gathering space.
  • Shop secondhand. If you have your heart set on specific decorations that you don’t already own, check out local thrift shops to complete your vision. Not only does buying used items avoid the waste of producing new goods, but they’re also less expensive.
  • Remember, less is more. Your guests want to enjoy your company, not your décor. When in doubt, simply clear the clutter so the focus can remain on the company and conversations.
Treat Guests to Eco-Chic Elegance.
Treat Guests to Eco-Chic Elegance.
Treat Guests to Eco-Chic Elegance.

You want to welcome your guests warmly and make it feel like they’re at home, so ditch the polluting single-use plastics.

  •  Use real dinnerware and utensils. We get it — disposable plastic is just so convenient. However, reusable plates, cups, napkins and utensils will increase the elegance factor of your party while decreasing your carbon footprint.
  • Package leftovers sustainably. If you want to send guests home with leftovers without creating waste, you have two options: supply reusable containers or ask your guests to bring their own.
Less Waste, More Taste.
Less Waste, More Taste.
Less Waste, More Taste.

As a host, the only way to prevent food waste is to have a plan. Ensure you have a menu where every bite will be savored.

  • Shop your kitchen first. Do you have the ingredients you need in the back of your pantry? Do you already have something that could be substituted for a required ingredient? By first shopping in your cabinets and fridge, you can prevent food waste — and save money.
  • Make a list and check it twice. Only buy what you need for your event. Otherwise, you might purchase extras that eventually get thrown away.
  • Coordinate with guests. If you’re going potluck-style, keep track of what everyone plans to bring. This will avoid duplicates and potential waste. And don’t forget to ask about food allergies or restrictions so everyone can relish each dish.
Savor the Season.
Savor the Season.
Savor the Season.

When planning your menu, treat your guests to the best the season has to offer.

  • Build meals around fresh, organic ingredients from local farms. This supports local farmers, reduces transportation-related emissions and tastes superior.
  • Choose in-season foods. Even if you can’t get your hands on local produce, seasonal eating can lower greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and cold storage. Plus, the food will taste fresher since less travel time is involved.
  • Choose quality over quantity. Eliminate the stress of preparing elaborate meals and focus on offering a few high-quality options you know your guests will enjoy. Having fewer options can help reduce wasted food.
Spread the Green Spirit.
Spread the Green Spirit.
Spread the Green Spirit.

Whether it comes up naturally in conversation or you bring up the subject, let your guests know about the gathering’s focus on sustainability.

  • Share your efforts ahead of time. If you tell your guests you’re aiming for zero waste, they can proceed accordingly when it comes to the dish they bring or the host gift they give you.
  • Spread awareness. Knowledge is power, and spreading the message of sustainability can encourage broader change. Perhaps your guests will decorate with natural elements at their next party or change their minds about plastic utensils. Small changes do add up!

Making these eco-friendly switches as a host doesn’t require much effort or extra cost. In fact, following these tips for hosting a sustainable party may even simplify the planning process and make for a more enjoyable gathering. Cheers to hosting with sustainability in mind!

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