Celebrate Mother Earth: Host a “Green” Earth Day Party

Global warming, deforestation, melting-glaciers, there are a million reasons to honor our earth everyday before it’s only a version of what we know. This April 22 will mark the 41st Earth Day celebration and a great time to think about all that mother earth provides.

As time has past, and environmental awareness is an increasingly publicized issue, organized public parties / events are promoted around the globe.  Join in the earth-loving fun and host one of your own and celebrate all that mother nature gives to us.

Getting the Word Out

• Keep it “green” and send out an Evite or Paperless post to invite your guests.
• Encourage your guests to be thoughtful in their mode of transportation to your party.  Offer suggestions for easy public transport or try to set up a carpool.  Walking or biking would be good to if it’s feasible.

Setting the Scene

• There’s no need to go over board and “paint” the room green. But green, white, and brown are great colors to help you decorate your table.  These are earthy, clean colors that should reflect the different color elements of the earth. Aim for a simple white backdrop with a white table cloth and white napkins.

• If you’re opting for disposable flatware and plates go for Bamboo.  It’s organic, biodegradable and actually looks great on a table. Check out this past post to find out where to purchase.

• Use a variety of green and white flowers to decorate the center of the table.  Make an effort to check out your local farmers market for what is available locally.  Some of my favorites that are available this time of year are, white tulips, delphiniums and hyacinths.  You can always supplement the white with green leafy branches or leaves.
• If you don’t have vases, try washing out old condiment jars, wrapping in brown or white paper.  It’s a great way to recycle and makes a great rustic tablescapes.
• Ditch the bottled water, invest in a Brita if you don’t already have one. Break out the old wine bottles and fill with table water.
• Candles are always a must, white tea candles down the center of the table gives a beautiful glow.

Menu

Just as the party is a celebration of taking care of the earth, the menu is full of healthy and sustainable food to take care of your body.  Check out farmers markets and purchase local and organic produce.  It does make a difference not only in taste but buying local reduces your carbon foot print.

Small Bites

Turnip Chips with Paprika and Lime

Popcorn with Mustard-Herb Butter

Roasted Chickpeas

Main Event 

English Pea Soup with Mint

Fettuccine with Peas, Asparagus, and Pancetta

Meringue Towers with Almond Whipped Cream and Seasonal Fruit

Drinks

Cucumber Martini

Organic / Biodynamic Wine

• Montinore Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley Oregon, $19.99
• Babich Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2010, New Zealand, $11.99

Organic Beer

• Peak Organic Ale, Maine
• Bison Brewing, California