Beach Trading Blog

We here at Beach Trading know we all want to do our part in being green and helping our environment but sometimes, especially around the holidays, it can be tough.

We thought we’d help you out with 5 simple things you can do to make a difference. If everybody made a small difference then all our efforts will add up to a HUGE difference!

1. Invitations - The first step in having a party is inviting people to your party so why not start using online invites? Sites like Evite.com and MyPunchBowl.com make it fun and easy! Let’s face it, no matter how fancy your paper invitation is, it’s going to end up in the trash.

2. Decorations – The next step of any holiday party is decorating. Here are some ideas to cut down on your carbon footprint:

• Use natural lighting – Have your party a little earlier in the day or even outdoors. If you can’t do that then dig out all those candles people have given you over the years and light them up! Candles are a fun and festive way to decorate.
• Use cloth tablecloths – Much classier than a plastic one, plus you can re-use them.
• Use plants and flowers – You don’t need expensive bouquets to make a statement with flowers. Get a bunch of small vases and put one or two flowers in each. Then you can give them to guests when they leave as a party favor.

3. Plates, utensils and cups – Use the real thing or even paper, but not plastic! The best option is of course to use real glasses, real plates and real silverware. Not only is it MUCH nicer to eat off real plates using real forks and knives but you’ll feel great not adding to the enormous amount of paper and plastic that ends up in landfills.

4. Food & Drinks – Shop local and shop organic. Shopping local, like at a farmer’s market, can often be less expensive than the supermarket and you’ll be supporting local farmers which is great for your local economy.

5. Recycle - Set up some recylcing cans along with the trash cans at your party. Most people feel akward throwing glass , aluminum or plastic into he trash these days anyway!

Hope your party is a smashing success and Happy Holidays from all of us here at Beach Trading.