Saturday, February 27, 2010

Eco-Fabulous: Celebrate in the New Decade

Répondez, s’il vous plaît when you receive an invitation, according to Emily Post. If you are the one hosting, then embrace the new etiquette of eco-friendly entertaining:

• Evites – With electronic invitations or evites, Emily's required RSVP comes much sooner and there is no expense to the sender or the invitee.

• Recycled invitations – If the event calls for sending a personal invitation, there are beautiful earth-conscious alternatives to choose from. A variety of classic and stylish invitation cards are available from Green Paper Studio, a true-green company that will also plant a tree for every order received.

• Host/Hostess gift – Traditional etiquette emphasizes presenting the host of the party with a gift. Previously, it was selected from a variety of small household items, decorations or a bottle of wine. In the spirit of earth-friendliness a small plant, a basket of organic fruit or a set of 100% recycled note cards would be more than appropriate. If the host happens to be missing a green thumb then select any of the great gifts offered at The Ultimate Green Store.

• Eco-friendly menu – Once the guests arrive, treat them with your best social etiquette and recipes that include organic, locally grown ingredients. Consider serving refreshing dishes that do not require cooking or hot dishes fresh off the grill.

• Less paper waste – Use the fancy glasses you've been wanting to show off, because after all, using your own glasses or even mismatched flea market treasures to serve your guests is the most eco-conscious thing to do. The less paper waste created, the better. If required, there are biodegradable paper goods to be found at Green Paper Products. With a selection of compostable plates, cups and utensils, this company sells their products to individual consumers in smaller quantities including bowls that can be used for those delicious left-overs and taken "to-go" at the end of your event.

• Use daylight – Most small gatherings are scheduled in the evening as a dinner party. To light up the room either make sure you have energy saving light bulbs or turn most lights off and create a festive mood with soy candles. To conserve the most energy, you may want to schedule your party for a lunch on a weekend. Using natural light in an outdoor setting is always a great idea and by the way, great for taking pictures.

True friends will not remember how they were invited, but rather that they were invited. They won't remember what kind of plate you served them with or whether candles were lit instead of lights. However, they will remember the great times they shared in great company.

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