If there is something we love about summer, it is the accumulated social call. And after this year, stringing your party together never felt so good. Whether it’s nice beachside picnics, classy evening outings, or just a nice festive dinner, summer is where the socializing is.
But here’s the thing; This year’s social season is all about slowing down, reconnecting, and living the good life, both for ourselves and for the planet. That’s why we’ve partnered with BioPak’s green team to help you improve sustainable lodging. Whether it’s neat decor, compostable silverware, or waste-free catering, here are seven easy ways to upgrade your event to eco-friendly style.
Pick conscious decor
The seasonal aisle at your local Kmart may be tempting, but it’s a surefire way to collect things you just don’t need. If you want event decor that will last for many seasons, consider collecting high-quality, versatile pieces to suit the occasion. Get the linen factor right with the Bed Threads collection of tableware, from 100% French linen tablecloths to placemats and napkins; These pieces will last a lifetime. Accent your surroundings with handmade ceramic vases, recycled glass candle holders, and dried flowers or eucalyptus. If you learn the basics, you will always be ready for a mindful meeting.
Opt for party supplies that won’t last
Yes, you read that right. When choosing disposable cups, plates, and silverware, make sure they spend as little time as possible on this earth. That’s why biodegradable options are where they are. Our planet-backing pick for picnic and party supplies is BioPak. They have moved to make their packaging completely plastic-free, as well as offering essential elements that break down in your compost. From wooden cutlery to sugarcane plates to paper straws, have your event feel good and truly covered; Better yet, you can find them for pickup at your local Woolworths, Aldi, or IGA. While you’re at it, level things up and head over to Compost Connect for information on composting in your local area.
Avoid waste with catering
If you’re tasked with serving the smorgasbord yourself, rest assured, zero-waste catering doesn’t have to come at the cost of taste. In fact, choosing options that are based on less packaging often means that the item is fresh and made with love. When it comes to carbs, buy a French stick from your local bakery. Does anyone want bruschetta? You can also try homemade crackers, homemade hummus bougie, drool-worthy pesto, or a technicolor display of organic veggies. Trust us, your guests will be impressed. Or, if you’d rather grab something to go, opt for a Guzmán y Gómez Mexican Banquet, which uses plant-based packaging.
Reduce, reuse, manufacture
Whether it’s a Christmas dinner, a New Years brunch, or a birthday party, you’ll want some special items to make the occasion more memorable. Skip the gold number balloons (very unsustainable) and put your creativity to work instead. Give eye-catching Christmas decorations new life with a coat of paint or create a DIY garland from old cardboard boxes. For gifts, opt for reusable wrapping like a tea towel or fabric hair scarf instead of single-use wrapping paper.
Embrace seasonality
If you’re going to make the effort of an eco-friendly party, you might as well redouble your efforts to connect with nature and the seasons. When it comes to flowers, we know that they can be a huge waste of money and resources. But if you want to add some flair to your event, opt for local seasonal varieties to reduce your floral footprint. The same school of thought applies to products. Check which fruits and vegetables are in season when planning your menu, and do your best to source them locally. In short, we’ll see you at the farmers market.
Support your community
Local is where you are because it reduces the transportation emissions involved in supplying your products. Plus, your hard-earned money is spent where it belongs – in your community. From food and catering to furniture rentals, beverage supplies and décor, there are a host of talented creatives around your neighborhood ready to level up your event. Whether it’s buying drinks at your local craft brewery or getting desserts from your neighborhood baker, you really can’t go wrong. And if you’re wondering where to start, check out The Good Beer Co, which uses compostable beer ring holders.
Enter transport E
The distant and hard-to-reach places are last year. In keeping with the laid-back vibe of this event season, it’s all about making it easy to get to your party. Choosing a central location is an advantage on all accounts, especially when arriving home safely after a drunken night. Plus, you can encourage guests to hop on the green train with eco-friendly transportation options such as walking, carpooling, taking public transportation, or riding electric scooters.
Get those good feelings this summer by supporting both your party and our planet with BioPak. Their range of compostable party and picnic supplies is chock full of good items like wooden silverware, sugarcane plates, and paper straws.
Editor’s Note: This article is sponsored by BioPak. and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To learn more about who we work with and why, read our editorial policy here.
Image Credit: Supplied
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