GUESTPOST / SYNDICATED POST: The words below are by Elizabeth Stilwell, one of the founders of the Ethical Writers Coalition and a talented writer and illustrator who created the beautiful blog, The Notepasser. You can follow the spectacular work on ethical and sustainable issues HERE. Below are her words.
#GoneGreen2016 Day 207 / 365
In my last post, I pointed out the incredible waste of the traditional party industry. Plastic decorations, one-off themes, and balloons are nothing to celebrate. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Even if you are a serial party thrower, investment in basic dishware and linens in neutral colors will provide the appropriate backdrop for any celebration. Rather than a predetermined set of themed plasticware, natural and compostable decorations can change the atmosphere of each gathering. This way of thinking will bring simplicity to the process and give you room to shine as the creative host I know you are. You just need three little tweaks.
Decorate with produce, flowers, plants, branches, paper, or textiles. It will be lovely, promise. Eschew disposable for reusable (aka “real”) dishes, flatware, and glasses — think of the sophistication of it! Get what you need over time (and on the cheap) at thrift stores which are always flush with glasses and dishware. For kids’ parties or when reusable just isn’t reasonable, choose compostable paper or plant-based products (and compost them, obvs). If you’re attending a party or picnic, consider bringing this nifty travel cutlery set.
Packaged food is devastatingly convenient, but creates a lot of waste. Instead of cooking everything yourself, make things easy — have a potluck and encourage homemade fare. Avoid packaging by making party mixes from bulk bought items like nuts, beans, seeds, or dried fruit (this kind of food makes for great party favors as well). Try these sweet and salty chickpeas from Cupcake Project or mixed nuts from Baker by Nature.
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