Entertaining eco style

Summer is almost here and the weather is perfect for entertaining and enjoying all that nature has to offer. Entertaining with the planet in mind doesn’t require you to throw your style sensibilities out the window. In fact we think you’ll find it’s fun when you let your eco imagination go wild. Whether it’s a simple picnic or a formal dinner with family and friends here are our top tips.

Add a splash of colour with beeswax wraps
If you haven’t already then it is time to say your farewell to cling wrap and grab some reusable beeswax wraps to cover platters and bowls of food. There are soooo many lovely fabric designs around you can pick wraps that suit the theme and style of your event making them more than just food covers – they are now statement pieces on your table.

Juggling plates?
Whether you’re heading out into nature for a picnic or simply entertaining at home you can still keep your gathering a plastic free occasion. If the thought of washing up hundreds of plates at the end of a party doesn’t appeal or packing up your own dinnerware for a picnic isn’t your thing try palm leaf bio plates or sugarcane and bamboo plates. They are better than any plastic disposable plate you’ve ever used. Solid and strong.

For a super stylish look visit your local op shops and grab a variety of different dinner plates and glasses to create an eclectic look that’s right on trend and can be used over and over..

Go all natural
It’s not a new idea, our parents and grandparents all used them so go natural and learn to love your linen or cotton table cloths. Match your table cloth with reusable napkins and you are well on your way to a stylish eco-party.

Or consider using handmade, fair trade rattan placemats.

What to put on the plate?
As David Attenborough mentions in his latest documentary A Life On Our Planet we all need to eat a more plant based diet and we find Yotam Ottenlenghi’s many vegetable based dishes tasty and inspiring. A little less meat and few more delicious plant-based dishes will ensure your party is the one everyone remembers this year.

Add a little twinkle
We all love a little sparkle but this year don’t reach for the fairly lights encased in plastic try the soft glow of tea lights in jars for safety. Pinterest is awash with inspiration on how to turn a simple can or jar into a pretty tea light for your next gathering. You’ll create a lovely ambience and all your friends will want to know how you made them.

We love entertaining family and friends and hope sharing some of our eco-entertaining tips has inspired you to think a little differently.