Use what you already have
Use your own plates, bowls, glasses and cutlery rather than disposable alternatives. If you don't have enough for everyone, borrow extras from family or friends. A table doesn't need to look perfectly coordinated to be welcoming.
The same applies to serving dishes, platters, tablecloths and decorations. Before heading to the shops, check what you already have at home.
Borrow instead of buying
Before buying extra chairs, tables, eskies, serving equipment or outdoor items, ask friends, neighbours or family if they have something you can borrow. It saves money, reduces clutter and means fewer items are purchased only to sit unused most of the time.
Plan food carefully
It's tempting to over-cater, but buying too much food often means leftovers that don't get eaten. Think about how many people are coming, what foods they're likely to enjoy and how much variety you really need.
Choosing foods that can be stored or reused also helps. Leftover roast meats can become sandwiches, cooked vegetables can be added to meals, and extra bread can be frozen for another day.
Choose food with less packaging
Where practical, choose options with less packaging, such as buying larger quantities instead of individually wrapped portions.
Avoid single-use decorations
Many party decorations are designed to be used once and then thrown away. Instead, look for items that can be reused year after year.
- Fabric bunting, reusable tablecloths, fairy lights, candles, vases and decorations you already own can all help create a festive atmosphere without creating extra rubbish.
- Natural decorations can also work well. A vase of flowers from the garden or a few leafy branches can add colour without needing to be stored afterwards.
Make drinks waste-free
A drinks station with jugs or drink dispensers can reduce packaging and makes it easy for guests to help themselves. If you're serving bottled drinks, choose larger bottles rather than individual serves where possible.
A low-waste party isn't about making everything perfect (or being a party pooper!). It's about making thoughtful choices that reduce rubbish while keeping the focus where it belongs - on enjoying time with the people around you.
