Zero Waste Outdoor Entertaining ~ you can do it!

Zero Waste Outdoor Entertaining ~ make all your backyard barbecues, summer garden parties, and family gatherings eco-friendly this season with minimal waste and maximum style!

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What is zero waste all about?

Zero Waste: The conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of all products, packaging, and materials, without burning them, and without discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health.

Basically it means putting as little into the trash as you possibly can on a daily basis. While I’m not a perfect role model for zero waste living, I do think it’s a worthy goal and I’m a firm believer in making small changes that add up to a big difference. I also believe that even if you’re no eco-warrior, there are a lot of reasons to integrate zero-waste principles into your life. Phasing out disposable products is healthier,  saves money, and saves room in the landfills! Here are my top picks for hosting a fabulous zero-waste backyard shindig without sacrificing style.

 

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Outdoor Drinkware

There’s no excuse for disposable cups anymore, unbreakable glassware has exploded on the scene with new technology that gives you the same clarity and feel of glass, in a durable, re-usable form. Whether you’re serving up cocktails, wine, or fruit punch, Williams Sonoma has plastic glasses in just about every shape and size you’ll ever need. They’re eco-friendly, safe around the pool, and still cute. The best part? They can go straight into the dishwasher!

Domaine Shatterproof Outdoor White Wine Glasses ~ Williams Sonoma

 

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Beverage Dispensers

Try swapping out the ubiquitous styrofoam cooler full of aluminum cans for a pretty beverage dispenser that you can use for gatherings all year round. You’ll find them in glass, but acrylic versions like the one below are lighter weight, and perfect poolside. I like to fill them with fruit infused water for the non drinkers in the crowd. Think of how many plastic water bottles you’ll save! My Star Spangled Fruit Infused Water would be great in one of these for the 4th.

Note: if you’re serving lots of beer, consider renting a keg.

Acrylic Drink Dispenser ~ Crate and Barrel

 

Pitcher cocktails are such fun in the summer months, so make sure you have a couple of non-breakables handy.

Picnic Pitcher  ~ Terrain

 

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Dishware

Melamine dishes have come a long way, you guys. There are so many beautiful, food-safe versions out there that are dishwasher-friendly, pool-friendly, and environmentally-friendly alternatives to the paper plate! Plus they won’t buckle under a hefty burger 🙂

Modern Melamine Dinnerware ~ West Elm

 

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Compostables

For larger parties where plastic or melamine dishes for all your guests just isn’t feasible, try looking for compostable plates, cutlery, and even straws! Just make sure you have a separate waste bin that’s clearly marked for your guests to dispose of their compostable items. And remember, lots of products made from bamboo or wood can be reused multiple times, just hand wash and dry.

Hay Straws ~ Amazon (yes, they’re made of hay)

 

BalsaCircle Compostable Natural Birch Wood Spoons ~ Walmart

When you’re ready to clean up, consider using compostable food waste bags!

 

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Food Covers

Leave the plastic wrap in the kitchen and keep your food protected from bugs, pool splashes, and the sun with a variety of reusable food covers. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative to plastic wrap ~ the natural wax infused fabric conforms to any shape bowl or platter and keeps your food fresh. You can find the original Bee’s Wrap at Sur La Table, but I like the fun patterns from Etsy, below.

Bee’s Wax Food Wraps ~ Etsy

 

Food-tents allow air to circulate while still protecting your food. One benefit is that your guests can still see what’s inside ( a boon when you need to keep the buffet line moving.)

Food Tent ~ Crate & Barrel

 

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Linens

Paper napkins are a huge waste, and they’re not nearly as effective as cloth. High quality fabric napkins are easy to throw in the washing machine, and will last years.

Terrazzo Print Napkins ~ West Elm

 

And put down that paper tablecloth! Beautiful printed linens are practical and elegant. The one below is made from oilcloth, a fabric treated with special oils to make it waterproof. Just sponge it down to clean, no laundering needed!

Note: you can make your own custom tablecloth with oilcloth yardage from Etsy.

Summer Stripe Oilcloth Tablecloth ~ Williams Sonoma

 

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Bug Control

Keeping the bugs at bay is essential for any outdoor summer party. These citronella candles will last much longer than disposable tea lights, plus you can reuse the pretty glass containers.

Hanging Bubble Glass Citronella Candle ~ Terrain

 

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Lighting

Why not score some extra points with festive solar-powered lighting? No matches, batteries, or recharging necessary! I think these pierced styles are gorgeous.

Lace Solar Lanterns ~ Terrain

 

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Decor

Resist the urge to throw a theme party, that just encourages a lot of waste. Instead, let Mother Nature be your decorator and use what you’ve got around you to create simple tablescapes. I love to gather a combination of herbs and flowers in simple canning jars for a sweet look. See my post on Backyard Flower Arranging for inspiration.

Weck Canning Jars ~ Amazon

 

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Menu plan

Do yourself a favor and pare down the menu. Cheeseboards, charcuterie platters, and grazing tables make perfect warm weather party food. Finger food is deliciously low waste and so chic! You can use all kinds of wooden trays or stone slabs for arranging cheese boards. I love this acrylic/rattan tray.

Summer Cheese Platter ~ Half Baked Harvest

 

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Check out my Outdoor Entertaining Pinterest board for even more ideas!