Everyone loves to celebrate, but unfortunately every big event comes with a steep environmental cost. Waste and refuse is inevitable after a major celebration has taken place, all because it’s assumed that it’s cheaper and easier to buy disposable products.

However, this is not the case! In fact, there are several ways you can throw a big party or celebration without creating too much waste afterwards. Here are some tips on how to reduce waste at a party or event without hurting your wallet in the process. 

Modernize the invites

There is something exciting about receiving an invitation in the mail. It’s refreshing to receive something that’s not a bill or junk mail for sure; however, not everything that is printed on paper may be kept after the event is over. Some people may even approach printed invites the way they would view junk mail.

Unless you take great pride in handcrafting your invites, there are many great online options. Set up a Facebook group specifically for your event and send invites via online text. Encourage RSVPs that everyone can send with a simple text. You can upload a cool photo or use a template for cover photos to accompany the invitation as well. E-mails and text messages are also more efficient ways to reduce the cost and waste of printed invitations. If you want, you can also include a reason as to why you’re sending the invites online.

Real materials are the real deal

You get what you pay for, and that definitely includes decor. There’s something that both looks and feels cheap about buying dollar store materials for something as big as your wedding, anniversary or your child’s very first birthday party. Napkins rip more easily and take up space in the garbage; plastic knives and forks take years to decompose in landfills. 

Real materials are both reusable and they can make a party look amazing. So, skip the dollar store and go with the real materials if you want to cut down on waste at your next event.

Keep the menu simple

Food can lead to a whole lot of mess and waste too. Not everyone has the same sense of appetite you may have, and some others have allergies or sensitivities to certain foods and drinks.

So what should be done instead? Simple: cook your own food. Or, if you want to bring a sense of community to the event, ask your guests to make a dish themselves and bring it to the party. Use real dishes and silverware as opposed to plastic or disposable ones for even less waste. Encourage your guests to bring and take home their own dishes for even easier clean-up after the party.

Alternative balloon options

We all love balloons, but the materials they’re made of are not environmentally friendly! These classic decorations come with toxic substances that are harmful both to our environment and the animals who may swallow them. 

Fortunately, more people are becoming aware of how harmful balloons can be. Rather than choosing balloons, other more environmentally friendly options are available such as streamers, bubbles, pinwheels, floating flowers, and flags. The cool thing about these alternatives is that they are reusable and can be beautiful if properly taken care of.

Rent decor instead of buying them

Decor is another one of the biggest causes of waste production at parties. Not to mention perhaps you’re not planning on reusing the decor after the event is over. If that’s the case, have you considered renting your decor as opposed to buying them outright? When it comes to linens, chairs, tables, and arches, we’ve got a wide selection of ideas that we’re certain you’ll be pleased with!

A zero waste party doesn’t have to be a headache. With proper planning ahead of time, you’re guaranteed to throw one memorable event. We can help with setting up all the decor! 

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