How to Host an Eco-Friendly Party
Planning a party is always exciting. It’s a chance to bring people together, celebrate, and make lasting memories. But have you ever thought about the environmental impact of those celebrations? From disposable decorations and plastic tableware to wasted food, parties can generate a surprising amount of waste. The good news? It’s easier than you might think to throw a fantastic party that’s also eco-friendly. With just a few thoughtful choices, you can host a celebration that’s as kind to the planet as it is enjoyable for your guests.
Invitations
Let’s start with the invitations. First, decide if formal invitations are necessary. If your party is a casual gathering between friends maybe you can just send a text or create an Event on Facebook.
If you decide that you do want formal invitations, you have a few options. Traditional paper invites are charming, but they can be wasteful, especially when they end up in the trash after the event.
Digital invitations are a simple and stylish alternative. You can design something beautiful using platforms like Evite or Paperless Post, and it saves on paper, ink, and postage. If you really want to send something physical, ensure that it's a recyclable paper (bonus if you can use post-consumer recycled paper in the first place!) and write a message on the card encouraging the recipient to recycle it after they are finished with it. Or, why not choose seed paper? It’s biodegradable and lets your guests plant wildflowers instead of tossing your invite into the bin.
Dishes and Serving Ware
Once you’ve set the tone with the invites, it’s time to think about how you’ll feed and host your guests. Food and tableware are major parts of any party, and they can either create a lot of waste or be an opportunity to go green. Plastic is tough to recycle and paper plates usually have a coating on them that makes them non-recyclable, which is to say nothing about the emissions that go into making them.
Instead of buying disposable plates and cups, try using real dishes from your own kitchen. Of course, this may not always be a viable option; no one wants to have glass or ceramic plates outside just asking to get broken. If you plan to host frequently, look into purchasing durable and high-quality washable plastic plates. Sure, they are still plastic, but quality plastic plates will last a long time and more than make up for their impact over disposable options. If you're not ready to purchase additional supplies, you can also borrow some from a friend or contact a local party rental store.
If disposable options make the most sense to you, try one of the many low-impact options available. Compostable tableware is another option if reusable isn’t feasible - it’s a great way to keep convenience without the guilt. Upcycle Outpost carries a range of palm leaf dishes that are sustainably made with minimal footprint and are fully compostable. To make things easy for your guests, set up bins for compost, recycling, and trash, and label them clearly.
Food
Food is the heart of any party, so why not make your menu as sustainable as possible? Choosing seasonal, local, or organic ingredients reduces your environmental impact while also making your dishes fresher and tastier. Serving drinks in bulk—think pitchers, dispensers, or punch bowls—cuts down on the waste from single-use bottles or cans. And if you want to add an extra green touch, consider offering a few vegetarian or plant-based options. Even small swaps, like veggie sliders instead of beef ones, can make a big difference for your carbon footprint.
Of course, no one wants to deal with piles of leftover food at the end of the night. That's just food waste waiting to happen! That’s where good planning comes in handy. Estimate portions carefully based on the number of guests, and encourage them to bring reusable containers if they’d like to take home leftovers. Composting any scraps is another easy way to keep food waste out of the landfill, and if you have unopened items, consider donating them to a local food bank.
Decor
Decorations are another area where a little creativity can go a long way. Balloons and plastic streamers might be traditional, but they’re difficult or impossible to reuse, going instead straight to the landfill. Instead, think reusable or natural. Cloth banners, fairy lights, and potted plants make beautiful, eco-friendly alternatives. If you enjoy DIY projects, you can create stunning décor from upcycled materials. Old mason jars can become candle holders, and scrap fabric can be turned into bunting. Not only are these options better for the planet, but they also add a unique, personal touch to your party.
Party Favors
Not every party needs party favors, but they're definitely fun! Instead of handing out cheap plastic trinkets that are likely to be forgotten or go straight to the trash, choose gifts that your guests will actually use and appreciate. Small potted plants, homemade treats, or reusable items like beeswax wraps are all thoughtful and sustainable options. Or, skip the favors altogether and just let the memories of time well spent do the trick!
Let's Party!
Hosting an eco-friendly party doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or elegance. In fact, it’s an opportunity to get creative, connect with your guests, and show how small changes can make a big impact. From the invitations to the décor, every step you take toward sustainability makes your celebration more meaningful - not just for your guests but for the planet too. So why not give it a try? Your next party could be the start of a new tradition, one that celebrates both your loved ones and the world we all share.