Have you noticed how competitive parties have become? It seems that each parent goes out of their way to make their child’s party better than any other of their friends. They are becoming so extravagant that it is hard to recognize as being a children’s party.
You have decided to have a party, you want it to be frugal and green. You want it to be a day that every guest will always remember. What are the things that you must consider to make your part environmentally friendly, economical and fun, all at the same time? It is a question that a lot of us are asking. The answers are probably the same issues that we face daily such as: local business and produce; reusing; recycling; organic food and drink; reducing gas and electric consumption. These would just be the main issues and we haven’t considered the cost at this early stage. These same issues will apply regardless of what occasion the party is celebrating and the age group for the party guests.
Location: The party should be in a location that is close and convenient to all, or most of the invited guests to avoid little travel. Flying to a party location would be a bad idea environmentally wise.
The basic ingredients for a party are; location; theme; food; clothing; entertainment.
The best party that I have ever attended was given by a couple where the husband was of Hawaiian decent and the wife was Chinese decent. The main theme was Hawaiian with a bit of Chinese entertainment.
As each guest entered they were given an article of clothing to wear. The men were given a flowered Hawaiian shirt. Each shirt had been collected from various Good Will stores and second hand stores, washed and meticulously ironed. The ladies were given leis made of plastic flowers and matching flowers for their hair. Everyone was required to put on their clothing before entering the party. This was quite a laugh and started the proceedings off with great fun.
The food was prepared and served in the Hawaiian method, but consisted of local produce. Pineapples were replaced with chopped apples, peaches and cherries. Little loaves of buttered bread and small cakes, all mainly homemade. Even the ice cream came from the local creamery.
There was no paper products used such as paper plates or cups, and all cutlery was stainless steel. Cloth napkins which had been collected from many sources were readily available for everyone
The entertainment was fantastic with a local ladies’ belly dancing troup, a Hawaiian dancer and records of Elvis and Blue Hawaii. For the Chinese delegation, an actual Chinese dragon dance was performed by some locals, dragon and all.
The hosts were relaxed and made everything fun. Everyone had a wonderful time. The cost was minimal and it was a day that every guest will always remember. The perfect party.
