My youngest daughter just turned one and I’m happy to report that her First Birthday Party was an eco-friendly, green success! I limited the invitation paper waste and postage by sending Evite invitations to the event. I centered her party around a garden theme and asked guests not to bring gifts to reduce wrappings. However I did suggest that for anyone that felt the need to bring something that they bring something for her first garden. It was wonderful! She received everything from a bird feeder and Shepard’s hook to spring bulbs and gardening tools. She even received a Bay Laurel and a Laurel Oak tree in her name. The following are other things I did to keep her green, first birthday party eco-friendly:
- The plates and cutlery were biodegradable and made from corn. I purchased them through Gaiam.com.
- The napkins were Seventh Generation unbleached, made from recycled materials also purchased through Gaiam.com
.
- We served fresh fruit and vegetables. I cut the melon into garden shapes using cookie cutters.
- The children were encouraged to play outside with various stations set up, such as an art table with Magic Nuudles
(biodegradable building blocks made from cornstarch), a fishing pond, a sand table and a bug hunt (which didn’t end up happening but I thought it was a cute idea).
- Take away gifts were miniature terracotta pots with organic soil, thyme seeds and Yummy Earth Lollipops
- I baked organic, carrot cake muffins
- Decorations were minimal and included fresh flowers cut from our garden.
There are some other great ideas on the for nature-centered activities and having a backyard birthday party from the National Wildlife Federation that I can’t wait to use when my girls get older!
Please share any ideas you may have for greening a party by leaving a comment.
{ 0 comments… add one now }