Eco Friendly Decorations for a Sustainable Party & Celebration

When you’re planning any type of gathering, be it an intimate get-together or an extravagant celebration, the goal is always to create a remarkable experience. Rather than settling for generic party decorations, why not elevate your event to a whole new level of sustainability? Embrace these eight eco friendly decorations and ideas to transform your celebration into an unforgettable experience.

General Rules for Eco-Friendly Practices

No matter the scale of your party or event, you have the power to make it both memorable and environmentally friendly. Take these valuable suggestions into consideration to ensure your party decorations leave a positive impact on the planet.

• Opt for reusability. Instead of relying on disposable decorations, make a conscious choice to invest in or create eco friendly decor alternatives. Not only will this reduce waste, but it will also save you money in the long run.
• Tap into your creativity. If time permits, unleash your artistic side and craft your own decorations. Below, I provide you with DIY options that will add a personal touch to your event.
• Minimize waste. Embrace the principles of sustainability by reusing decorations whenever possible, crafting your own with minimal materials, or choosing products with eco-friendly packaging.
• Embrace nature’s beauty. Incorporate organic and natural elements into your decorations, such as pinecones, pebbles, seashells, potted plants, and flowers. These elements not only enhance the aesthetics but also promote a closer connection with the environment.
• Support local businesses. Reduce your carbon footprint by purchasing party supplies from local vendors who prioritize eco-friendly practices. By doing so, you contribute to the local economy and minimize transportation emissions.
• Consider renting. Rather than purchasing new linens and decorations, renting from a reputable party rental store can be a cost-effective and sustainable choice, particularly for larger events.
• Ditch the balloons. Unfortunately, balloons pose a significant threat to the environment and wildlife. Choose alternative decorations that won’t harm our ecosystems.
• Say no to non-biodegradable materials. Avoid using materials like plastic and glitter that cannot biodegrade. Instead, opt for environmentally friendly alternatives that align with your eco-conscious values.

Potted Flowers or Plants

You have a fantastic opportunity to enhance the aesthetics of your event using potted, live plants instead of cut flowers. This choice not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also offers long-term benefits. Tailor the placement of these plants as centerpieces on your table(s), ensuring a captivating display by incorporating varying heights and shapes.

The best part? You can continue to enjoy these plants beyond the event. Reuse them for future gatherings, allowing their presence to become a staple in your celebrations. Alternatively, consider giving them away as natural party favors, spreading the joy and beauty of nature to your guests. It’s a wonderful gesture that adds a sustainable touch to your event’s conclusion.

Vintage & Second-Hand Linens

When it comes to decorating your table and party space, there’s a wonderful alternative to buying brand new linens. Take a trip to your local thrift shop or second-hand store, where you can discover a treasure trove of charming vintage linens. Explore the possibilities at estate sales, whether online or in your local area, as they often offer unique finds that add character to your event.

For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, various platforms cater to your quest for vintage or second hand linens. Consider joining Facebook “buy-nothing” groups or browse through popular online marketplaces like Etsy and Ebay. Additionally, specialized second-hand home furnishing websites like Chairish can provide a wide selection of linens with a touch of history and charm. Enjoy the thrill of uncovering hidden gems while embracing a sustainable approach to decorating.

Eco-Friendly Candles, Lanterns, & Holders

When it comes to setting the perfect ambiance for your party, both indoors and outdoors, candles reign supreme. Not only do they create a captivating atmosphere, but they are also cost-effective eco friendly party supplies. To align with your eco-friendly goals, it’s best to steer clear of paraffin-based wax candles and opt for natural alternatives like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. You can even take it a step further and unleash your creativity by crafting your very own candles!

As for candleholders, you have plenty of options to explore. Consider repurposing pretty drinking glasses, mason jars, plates, or trays that you already have on hand. If you’re feeling particularly crafty, why not try your hand at making your own unique candleholders? With a touch of imagination and resourcefulness, you can create stunning pieces that add a personalized touch to your party decor. Let your creativity shine and create candleholders that truly reflect your style and flair.

Solar LED Lighting

Solar lighting is a fantastic alternative that harnesses the power of the sun to illuminate your outdoor space. These innovative lights convert sunlight into energy during the day, storing it in built-in batteries. As the sun sets, the stored energy is used to power the lights, creating a beautiful and eco-friendly ambiance for your outdoor entertaining.

The options for solar lighting are vast and varied. You can choose from string lights to adorn your patio or garden, stake lights to line pathways and driveways, or even decorative lanterns to hang from trees or pergolas. The best part is that these lights are easy to install, requiring no wiring or electricity. Simply find the perfect spots to place them, and let the sun do its magic.

Bunting & Banners

For a fabric banner, dive into your collection of fabric scraps and select pieces that speak to you. You can mix and match patterns and colors to create a delightful tapestry of textures. Cut the fabric into triangles, rectangles, or any shape that resonates with your vision. Then, attach them to a string or ribbon using sewing, glue, or even clothespins, and voila! Your homemade fabric banner is ready to adorn your party space with charm and character.

If you prefer a simpler and more budget-friendly option, colorful paper can be transformed into a striking bunting. Raid your supply of construction paper, cardstock, or even recycled paper and cut it into uniform triangles or other desired shapes. Arrange the pieces in a pattern or alternate colors to create a visually appealing design. Secure the paper shapes onto a string or twine using tape, glue, or hole punches. Your handcrafted paper bunting will instantly elevate the festive spirit of your event.

Confetti

Gather old tissue paper or unlaminated colored paper that you no longer need. Utilize different-shaped hole punches to transform these materials into a dazzling array of confetti. Whether you opt for traditional circles, stars, hearts, or unique custom shapes, the choice is yours. Let your imagination guide you as you craft a confetti collection that matches your party’s theme and color palette.

If you’re seeking even more sustainable party decorations, explore the natural world for materials to create organic confetti. Leaves, when pressed and hole-punched, can add an earthy touch to your celebration. Consider incorporating coconut flakes, fragrant herbs, or delicate floral petals to infuse a delightful aroma and a whimsical feel into your confetti mix. Just remember to avoid using rice kernels, as they can pose a threat to wildlife.

Create a Positive Impact on the Environment

By incorporating these eco-friendly party decoration ideas into your event planning, you are not only creating a memorable experience but also making a positive impact on the planet. Each decision you make, from reusing and DIY crafting to embracing natural elements and supporting local businesses, contributes to a greener and more sustainable celebration.

So, when you embark on your party planning journey, remember that the choices you make have the potential to leave a lasting impression on the planet and those around you. Let your event be a shining example of how sustainability and celebration can beautifully coexist. Together, we can create a world where every gathering is a testament to our commitment to a greener future.