How to Throw a Green Anniversary Party

Throwing a green anniversary party (or, in other words, an environmentally-friendly anniversary party) is not hard to do. It simply requires a little creativity on your part. Don't worry about having to become a tree-hugger to host a party like this... just check out these helpful tips.

Invitations

Every real party starts with the invitation. But because of the huge waste that comes from paper usage, and even all the pollution that comes from getting your invitation to where it needs to go, there is now a really fun and handy solution to getting those invites out - and it can be done at the click of the button. Just about everyone these days conducts their business on computers and on the internet these days, so why not send their invites electronically, too? There are some really great websites that can help you get this done, like Evite.com as well as a really great one called Pingg.com where you can have your own e-vite webpage. Not only can you invite your guests with free, stylish invitations, but you can also add updates that they can see!

Decorations

Your anniversary party can still look absolutely fabulous even when it goes "green". You can still use all the favorite colors of your anniversary couple, including their favorite flowers ... just make them organic flowers! Or, you could even go with potted flowers that can keep on growing even after the celebration is over. In fact, if you go that route you can get a lot of extra appeal from the beautiful pots they may be planted in! Try, too, using things like fruits and vegetables to decorate the party space - fill glass bowls and different shaped vessels (you can even get them really cheap at the Dollar Tree or craft stores) with a colorful variety of these. And if you are thinking of using sexy, low lighting for your event to add that special romantic flair that marks a wedding anniversary, try going with soy candles! Or, if it's an anniversary celebration that is taking place during the day you could also make it an outdoor one and skip the need for electricity at all!

Food and Drink

You can have some of the most delicious foods - from finger foods to full-blown courses - by simply buying local. Most areas have at least one local farmer's market going on each week, so take advantage of these local treats! It can include local cheeses, local meats, local fruits and vegetables! And when it comes to drink, you can also go either local or organic with this. If you are planning on serving wine, try purchasing from a local vineyard. Or try an organic liquor, which can be found in your local liquor store.

Utensils

Many people opt for those colorful paper and plastic plates, forks, spoons, etc. when it comes time for their party. And it can look very appealing, especially if you have a large crowd, to avoid having to go through the extra work of washing. But if you want to go green, go ahead and do that extra work. Go glass instead of paper. You can purchase cheap plates for as low as $1 from places like Wal-Mart and Dollar Tree, and they can be reused year after year. The same is true with cups and wine glasses.

Clean up

Have clearly-marked recycling containers throughout the party area for guests to know exactly what goes where, if you have chosen to use disposable utensils.

Gifting

Why not make it a point to let your guests know this is a green party? It's easy to do right on the invitation, and it helps train your guests in the long-run. Guests can get very creative by using reusable gift boxes instead of wrapping paper that just goes to waste, and some can even give gifts that help the environment! Some people even give small trees that can be planted on this special anniversary to mark the event!