Something Green

Concrete Vases

2011-07-14T09:43:00.000-05:00

Put an urban twist on your eco party planning by transforming cinder blocks into chic, modern vases.
Photo: Loveolio

Reused Denim

2011-07-12T06:58:00.000-05:00

Here is an unexpected way to get a second life out of a pair of old jeans: use the denim to decorate your party! Wrap dark pieces of denim around everything from glass bottles to empty coffee cans in order to create a one-of-a-kind table spread.
Photos: Style Unveiled

DIY Painted Vases

2011-07-11T08:56:00.001-05:00

I don't know about you, but I find it terribly frustrating when I browse the gardening aisles of a store and find the price stickers adhered to simple flower pots and vases. Yikes! However, there's no need to spend big bucks in order to spruce up your favorite plants. The next time you're at your local hardware store, be sure to browse their selection of "mistake paint" (the small jars of "mistake" colors often cost anywhere from $1-$5) for quirky colors you can use to refinish and reinvent your old jars or pots.
Photos: Luna and Chloe Weddings & Joy's Hope

Creative Ice Cream Cones

2011-07-08T11:38:00.000-05:00

No need for paper plates here! Consider serving simple summer treats in kid-friendly (and adult-friendly, too) ice cream cones!
Photo: Bakers Royale

Message in a Bottle

2011-07-06T08:18:00.000-05:00

Create a nautical theme with easy DIY message in a bottle place cards. Simply slip a note marked with each guests' name inside of a reused glass bottle and leave at every plate.
Photo: Martha Stewart

Exotic Plants

2011-07-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

There is no need to create centerpieces that incorporate multiple flower varieties. Instead, offer your guests a striking conversation starter with a bold single stem. Consult your florist to inquire about unusual plants that are sprouting up in your area.
Photos: Green Wedding Shoes

Strawberry Rice Pudding

2011-07-01T08:12:00.001-05:00

For me, rice pudding is such a satisfying dessert. It’s rich and sugary but also quite hearty, always leaving me with that warm content feeling that comes after a special meal. I really enjoy this recipe, which is inspired by the recipe found in Diana Shaw’s, Almost Vegetarian. While I enjoy the flavor of strawberries, any berries would be perfect for this easy, make ahead dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup low-fat or nonfat strawberry yogurt

2 ½ cups low-fat or nonfat milk

Zest of one lemon

2 tablespoons vanilla sugar

½ cup Arborio rice

2 cups sliced strawberries

Fresh mint (for garnish)

At least a week before preparing the dish, make the vanilla sugar. Fill a sugar bowl with about 1 cup of sugar and bury 1 or 2 vanilla beans in the sugar. Let sit for several days.

Warm the milk in a saucepan over low heat and steep the extra fine lemon zest in it for about 10-15 minutes. Keep the milk just below a simmer.

Dissolve the sugar in the milk. Remove milk from heat.

Add the rice to a heavy saucepan and pour in enough of the hot milk to just cover the rice. Stir over low heat until the milk is absorbed. Continue adding warm milk and stirring until you’ve used all the milk and the rice is plump and chewy.

Take the risotto off the heat and let it cool, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the yogurt and strawberries.

Refrigerate for at least three hours, covered, until the dessert is well chilled throughout. Before serving, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of vanilla sugar and fresh mint leaves.

Something Green Recipes

2011-07-01T07:42:00.000-05:00

We’re trying something new here at Something Green. Since we have such affection for food, and spend a great deal of time browsing the local Farmer’s Market and experimenting in the kitchen, we thought, “let’s share some of these fun recipes with readers.”

Over the coming weeks you can expect to find a mix of easy recipes that are perfect for entertaining (whether you’re entertaining a single friend or preparing a feast for all your favorite pals) alongside the normal decorating inspiration that you’re accustomed to finding on the site.

As always, please let us know your thoughts. Enjoy!

Terracotta Cupcake Holders

2011-06-28T07:33:00.000-05:00

Create a cupcake display by reusing wiped down terracotta pots. The small pots are just the right size to house these tasty treats and will look pretty for a garden party or other outdoor event.
Photo: Emmaline Bride

Sunflower Place Card

2011-06-18T08:59:00.000-05:00

A simple sunflower clipping makes a bold statement when used as a natural summer place card.
Photo: Martha Stewart

Drink Covers

2011-06-17T08:50:00.001-05:00

Keep all your summer drinks free from unwanted critters with these cute drink covers. Search through your kitchen cabinets for unused cupcake liners. Gently poke holes in the center of each liner, flip each liner upside down to cover each glass, slide a straw through the hole and enjoy!

Photo: Martha Stewart

Terracotta Serving Platters

2011-06-16T08:22:00.000-05:00

Hosting a garden party? Before purchasing new serving pieces to suit your theme, scour through your potting shed for a variety of terracotta pottery. Wipe each piece of terracotta with a dry towel and cover with a pretty dishcloth or creative natural element (as pictured below).
Photo: Martha Stewart

Summer Hostess Gift

2011-06-15T08:23:00.001-05:00

The next time you are invited to a casual backyard BBQ, consider offering your hostess this creative gift. Create a summer car wash gift basket filled with green products, such as eco-friendly sponges, organic cotton washcloths and phosphate-free liquid soap.
Photo: Martha Stewart

Eco Vase Filler

2011-06-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

A scoop of richly colored coffee beans is all you need to creatively fill any vase. An arrangement of pretty pastel-hued flowers will really pop when contrasted with the deep brown beans.
Photo: The Knot

Modern Herbs

2011-05-27T07:10:00.000-05:00

Rustic herbs look modern on a tabletop when dressed in sleek metal containers.
Photo: Martha Stewart

Custom Bottle Stoppers

2011-05-25T07:07:00.004-05:00

Create custom bottle stoppers with pretty found knobs. Simply adhere the knobs to corks for instant vintage glamour!
Photo: Martha Stewart

Whimsical Paper Mobile

2011-05-23T07:04:00.000-05:00

Create a whimsical atmosphere overtop any table with this feminine paper mobile, crafted from vintage dictionary pages.
Photos: Etsy

Archive Love: A Greenhouse Celebration

2011-05-13T08:31:00.000-05:00

Get an extra daily dose of veggies by creating a casual greenhouse-inspired party. Reused aluminum cans filled with small edible plants are all it takes to make a vitamin-rich table setting.

Photo: Once Wed

Archive Love: Rustic Mint Chandelier

2011-05-11T08:29:00.000-05:00

Create a rustic atmosphere by crafting a hanging chandelier made from small pots of mint or other fragrant herbs. Use clippings of the herbs as fresh garnishes for cocktails and entrées throughout the party.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Archive Love: Exotic Inspiration

2011-05-09T08:27:00.001-05:00

Amp up the exotic vibe at a laid-back summer get-together with this low-impact idea. Fill a simple bowl or serving piece with water and tropical colored floating candles. Place a few orchids in the water to float beside the candles; you can also scatter several orchids across the table for an easy, organic vibe.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Bridal Swap

2011-05-06T08:43:00.018-05:00

Ever wonder how best to get rid of old wedding items, or where to buy them at the most affordable prices, and to stay as green as possible in the process? Well, look no further!

Past brides and brides-to-be are participating in bridal swaps, where brides exchange wedding items of all kinds, such as centerpiece vases, ring pillows, candle holders, garters, jewelery, and so much more. Even bridesmaid dresses, wedding dresses and veils are offered up!

Past brides aren’t missing the chance to get rid of old wedding items tucked away in their closets and make some money in the process. Brides-to-be are also in attendance, leaving with wedding treasures they thought they’d never find.

So who participates in the bridal swap event?

Past brides who are in need (or want) of a little extra cash can rent tables and give away their most prized possessions (for a good, green cause!) and receive something in return. Future, eco-conscious brides are also participants of this event; these green brides are looking for an environmentally friendly way to celebrate their partners, and what better way to stay green and look golden on your wedding day than attending a bridal swap? Wedding vendors are also aplenty at this event, making their services known to brides who still need to put some finishing touches on their dream weddings.

Bridal swaps are eco-friendly wedding saviours because all kinds of items are exchanged rather than made new, avoiding the environmentally damaging effects of creating a most beautiful and perfect wedding. So, if you’re feeling guilty about your wedding waste, decide to have a ‘green’ wedding and attend a bridal swap!

Green wedding vendors can also offer their services to brides who are still putting finishing touches on their dream weddings.

The swap continues…

What’s neat about the bridal swap put on by Vancouver’s Dream Group Productions, is that besides having their own tables on which to sell their wedding items, past brides are able to list them on sites like www.smartbrideboutique.com, not only for the duration of the time leading up to the event, but for as long after the event as it takes for the items to sell.

For brides-to-be, items sold at the event are reasonably priced, so brides don’t have to worry about spending ‘more’ for what only seems like ‘less’. Items are expected to be sold at half of their original retail prices.

Some green bride ideas

Usually, it can be hard to find ways to go green on your wedding. But by holding a green bridal swap, you not only help reduce waste for your own wedding, you’re also encouraging others to do it at the same time, in a fun and creative way. Let’s be honest – do you really need those fancy new centerpieces? Go with “something used” and save your cash for honey moon shopping!

As writers of this article, Shoo-Foo Eco Linens is proud to be able to help brides ‘go green’ in another way: by offering an online green wedding registry where future couples can enjoy high quality bamboo towels and bedding for years to come!

Archive Love: Farm Fresh Favors

2011-05-04T08:38:00.001-05:00

Help support local agriculture by offering your guests seasonal produce, such as beautifully colored heirloom tomatoes, as favors. For a farm stand feel, arrange the produce in large baskets so that guests can take their time sorting through them. You can also supply guests with eco-friendly burlap bags, which they can use to carry home their produce, and then use again after your party.

Photos: Brides

DIY Favor: Vanilla Extract

2011-05-02T08:28:00.000-05:00

We love this fun favor idea for a culinary themed affair: homemade vanilla extract. Check out the easy DIY steps here.

Photos: Ruffled

Archive Love: Recycled Cityscape

2011-04-29T10:47:00.002-05:00

Hosting an affair in your favorite big city? Create your own modern eco cityscape on every table. Reused aluminum cans are the perfect vessels for the project. Begin by washing cans with warm, soapy water and allow them to fully air dry. For a skyscraper-feel, create a pattern of organized holes on all sides of each can. A non-petroleum-based votive will complete your urban-eco theme.

Photo: The Knot

Artisan Bread Favors

2011-04-27T07:36:00.000-05:00

Looking for some favor inspiration suitable for all your foodie friends? Treat each guest to a small loaf of artisan bread! When left out for guests at every place setting, the loaves help to enhance an already rustic tabletop.

Photos: Emmaline Bride

Veggie Centerpieces

2011-04-25T10:32:00.000-05:00

Farmer's market season is quickly approaching! While helping to support local agriculture this season be sure to pick up richly colored veggies for both your fridge and your tabletop. While assembling your next centerpiece, consider swapping a few varieties of cut flowers with textured veggies for a surprising twist!
Photo: Green Wedding Shoes

(Green) Easter Eggs

2011-04-22T07:11:00.004-05:00

Whether or not you have kids, Easter is all about dying eggs. Not only is it a fun project, but the dyed eggs can be placed in a simple bowl as easy eco accents. This year, instead of using store-bought dye, try a simple to make version that relies on natural ingredients, such as beets, red cabbage and onionskins, to produce beautifully colored (and totally toxin-free) eggs.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Archive Love: Confetti Eggs

2011-04-20T07:05:00.001-05:00

Here is a fun idea for spring celebrations: confetti eggs. A Mexican tradition, the delicate, hollow eggshells are usually broken over a friend’s head. When the eggshell breaks, the friend is meant to make a wish. Fill your own confetti eggs with biodegradable confetti. You can find the directions to making and filling your eggs here.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Multi-Use:Mason Jars

2011-04-18T07:40:00.031-05:00

While scouring spring flea markets, be sure to stock up on mason jars for all your entertaining needs. These classic jars are the perfect multi-use party accessory. With a bit of thoughtful planning, they can easily be incorporated into all aspects of your event, from your floral centerpieces to lighting to post-party clean-up.
Photos: Etsy

Succulent Place Card Holders

2011-04-15T09:45:00.003-05:00

Keep things fresh at a spring or summer gathering with easy succulent place card holders. These quick, cost-effective DIY table-toppers are a breeze to assemble and will serve as a small keepsake for each guest to carry home.
Photo: The Wedding Chicks

Eco Gifting

2011-04-13T09:37:00.003-05:00

Planning a birthday bash? Wrapping up a hostess gift? Instead of purchasing tissue paper or other box fillers that are likely to be used once before being tossed in the trash, consider shredding old magazines, newspapers, or any other paper products you may have around your home.
Photo: Martha Stewart

2011 LA Go Green Expo

2011-04-11T07:33:00.002-05:00

Last year I had the opportunity to attend the NYC Go Green Expo. It was a great afternoon filled with inspiring people and tons of new eco products (added bonus: I left with lots of fun little green goodies, too!).

This year, I’m happy to offer Something Green readers discounted tickets to the LA Go Green Expo. Simply use the promo code “SOMETHINGGREEN” to receive $5 off the ticket price.

Below is more detailed information about the event. I’m sure it will be an inspiring weekend (and a perfect way to kick off the spring season!).

Go Green Expo is one of the largest eco-friendly showcases in Los Angeles with hundreds of exhibits for eco-minded consumers & businesses. Learn from keynote presentations and panels from environmental leaders such as Captain Paul Watson of Whale Wars, Ed Begley Jr., Eric Cory Freed, Mariel Hemingway & dozens of others!

See the latest eco-friendly options for the home & office, green health & beauty, pet and baby products, enjoy an eco-film screening and much more!

The 2010 Go Green Expo in LA showcased more than 300 exhibits featuring the latest in eco-friendly products and services. More than 10,000 Los Angeles residents and over 250 media outlets were in attendance – GoGreenExpo.com received more than 4,000,000 hits. This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Details & Tickets: http://www.GoGreenExpo.com 

Purchase discounted tickets online in advance. 

Use promo code: SOMETHINGGREEN for $5 off (normally $15)

Los Angeles Convention Center - South Hall G

1201 South Figueroa Street

Los Angeles, CA 90015

Open to Public

Saturday, April 16, 2011 • 10am - 6pm

Sunday, April 17, 2011 • 10am - 5pm

Event website: http://www.GoGreenExpo.com 

Vintage Lace Bouquet

2011-04-08T07:13:00.000-05:00

Still in need of a "something old" for your wedding day? Consider wrapping your bouquet with vintage lace for a feminine, romantic look.

Photos: Green Wedding Shoes

DIY Herb Favors

2011-04-06T07:05:00.001-05:00

Consider looking to your recycling bin for some favor inspiration. A collection of clean tin cans are the ideal vessels for planting individual herb or flower gardens for each of your guests.
Photos: Ruffled

Lemon Leaf Table Runner

2011-04-04T07:00:00.018-05:00

Here is a pretty way to freshen up a spring party! Create an easy, compostable DIY runner by spreading vibrant green lemon leaves down the center of your table. Complete the look by nestling several bright yellow lemons throughout the leaves.
Photo: I Do It Yourself

Fruit Favors

2011-04-01T07:33:00.003-05:00

Small samplings of locally grown fruits are the perfect way to end an already sweet affair! Browse local farm stands to find fun fruity options that can serve as refreshing warm weather favors.

Photo: Ruffled

Colorful Tabletop

2011-03-30T07:24:00.001-05:00

As the weather warms and farm stands begin to carry an assortment of locally grown flowers, avoid the urge to be too "matchy-mathcy." Select a wide variety of flowers to create a fresh spring tabletop that reflects the beauty of your region.
Photos: Style Me Pretty

Kid-Friendly: School-Themed Party

2011-03-28T07:17:00.002-05:00

As the school year winds to a close, celebrate your child's academic achievements by hosting a school-themed party! Glass mason jars filled with beans (or other compostable fillers) can house classic #2 pencils. Keep things informal by lining tables with sheets of Kraft paper and encourage the kiddies to doodle!
Photo: Snippet & Ink

Archive Love: Reused Fruit and Vegetable Can Centerpieces

2011-03-25T07:10:00.000-05:00

Back in February, we created a post about tea tin centerpieces. We received a lot of positive feedback from readers about the tea tin centerpieces, and thus could not resist posting this similar party planning suggestion. Instead of tea tins, reuse aluminum cans as simple, yet decorative vases. I especially like the cans featured in this photograph, which still boast colorful labels. Browse the aisles of your local ethnic grocer to find cans with unique labels that advertise unexpected contents, such as exotic fruits. Then, find creative ways to incorporate these treats into your party menu.

Photo: Rachel Ray

Upcycled Plant Caddy

2011-03-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Fast food drink carriers can easily be converted into one-of-a-kind plant caddies. The caddies will serve as pretty spring centerpieces (invite guests to take the caddies home post-celebration).

Photos: I Do It Yourself

Matchstick Favors

2011-03-21T07:49:00.000-05:00

Matchbook favors are nothing new in the world of entertaining. Put a modern eco twist on this old classic by creating your own DIY matchstick favors. Clean glass Mason jars are the ideal vessels to display handfuls of strike-anywhere matches for each of your guests to take away.

Photos: Ruffled

Temporary Hiatus

2011-03-07T07:35:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by Something Green! We will be on a temporary hiatus and will return with new posts the week of Monday, March 20th. Until then, we hope you will enjoy browsing our archives!

Weekend Inspiration!

2011-03-04T07:48:00.000-06:00

From secondhand book pages to reused wine bottles, this pretty eco wedding will help inspire any hostess to add some green to her next celebration!
Photos: The Wedding Chicks

Spring Favors

2011-03-02T07:37:00.000-06:00

Spring has (almost) sprung! Offer your guests pretty party favors inspired by the new season. Reused aluminum cans filled with bulbs are a charming and thoughtful take-away gift for any spring celebration.
Photos: Once Wed

DIY Piñata

2011-02-28T07:27:00.002-06:00

Bring a sense of playfulness to your next soiree with this unique DIY piñata, which is crafted from used music sheets. Fill the piñata with sweet eco treats for your guests to enjoy once the piñata finally hits the ground.

Photo: Ruffled

Bandana Birthday Party

2011-02-25T07:58:00.008-06:00

While spring cleaning this year, be sure to dig through dresser drawers in search of lightly worn bandanas. Find creative ways to incorporate these colorful, secondhand accents into every aspect of your next birthday bash – from your napkin rings to your playful party hats.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Birch Centerpieces

2011-02-23T07:51:00.002-06:00

Hollowed out pieces of fallen birch make for lovely vase substitutes. Create simple arrangements in each DIY vase using a variety of soft-hued flowers for a fresh look that is perfect for spring.

Photos: Style Me Pretty

Spring-Time Garland

2011-02-21T07:49:00.000-06:00

Blown-out eggshells that have been dyed in a variety of cheerful spring-inspired colors are the perfect vessels for a simple DIY garland or swag.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Eko Miko Candle Line

2011-02-18T08:21:00.000-06:00

There are few things we love more than finding innovative new eco products that are ideal for entertaining. We've been in touch recently with the folks over at Eko Miko and are really loving their new collection of products. Founded by actress Izabella Miko (Coyote Ugly, Clash of the Titans, The Cape), this chic new line of eco candles is green party-ready. Every aspect of these candles is eco-friendly – from the packaging to the 100% vegetable wax based candles. But our favorite part: the green frosted glass candle holders, which are made from repurposed wine, water and trademark bottles that have been rescued from the North American waste stream.
Photos: Eko Miko

Vintage Bouquet Wrap

2011-02-16T08:05:00.000-06:00

Before your next visit with your florist, consider browsing online vendors such as Etsy for sparkly vintage belts. The belts, which can be found in a variety of colors and prices, are a stylish way to wrap a bouquet.
Photo: Once Wed

Candy Heart Centerpiece

2011-02-14T07:56:00.000-06:00

We LOVE (pun intended) this adorable and easy to assemble DIY Valentine's Day centerpiece. To create this look, start by sorting through your craft closet for two transparent glass vases (one that can fit inside the other). Place the smaller vase into the center of the larger vase. Fill the space between the two vases with colorful conversation heart candies. To finish your sweet centerpiece, use the center vase as a receptacle for cheerful flowers.
Photos: The Wedding Chicks

Think Spring

2011-02-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

If this wicked winter weather has been bringing you down, look to this beautiful photo shoot for a bit of sunshine. A variety of succulents lend unexpected doses of color and texture to nearly every aspect of this celebration – from the place settings to the dessert display. Clear glass vases filled with sand-colored pebbles offer this clean, modern spread an elegant beachy vibe.
Photos: Green Wedding Shoes

Sweet V-Day Treats

2011-02-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Surprise your sweetie this Valentine's Day by baking up some super sweet (eco) treats. Spend some time scouring through a vegan-friendly cookbook for cupid-worthy treats (we adore the recipes in Babycakes, Clarkson Potter, 2009).
Photos: Babycakes

Beer Soap

2011-02-07T08:00:00.003-06:00

Trying to find creative (and eco) V-day gifts for the men in my life is often a difficult task. However, these beer soaps, which are made using Guinness Extra Stout, are phthalate-free, vegan-friendly and decidedly more sweet (and definitely more unexpected) than the go-to box of dark chocolate.

Photo: Etsy

Kid-Friendly Party Mobile

2011-02-04T08:00:00.001-06:00

Add a bit of color to a kid’s party with an easy to make recycled party mobile. Scour your craft closet for leftover strands of assorted ribbons, which can be adhered to an embroidery hoop with double-sided tape.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Simple Romance

2011-02-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Surprise your sweetie this Valentine’s Day by stringing simple strands of homemade garland throughout your home or party space. All it takes is a creative hole punch, some string or twine and an assortment of recycled or reusable paper (vintage book pages are a smart choice).

Photo: Whipperberry

Edible Birthday Garland

2011-01-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Planning a child’s birthday bash? Forgo traditional garlands, which are often made of synthetic materials, and instead opt for playful strands of candy necklaces. When guests begin to file out, encourage the kiddies to help with clean-up duties (they’ll love snacking on this sweet party treat!).

Photo: Martha Stewart

Aromatic Jelly Jar Candles

2011-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Reused jelly jars are ideal vessels for votive candles. Create a rustic table setting by adorning a collection of jelly jar candle holders with pliable plant clipping (rosemary and eucalyptus are good options). Simple secure the ends of the clippings with a small piece of wire to create a one-of-a-kind eco-chic tabletop.
Photo: Martha Stewart

Mismatched Candlesticks

2011-01-26T08:00:00.002-06:00

Who says table accents have to perfectly match in order to create a sense of design coherency? An assortment of found candlesticks (scour garage sales, flea markets and the like for inexpensive finds) look chic when paired with elegant tapers in a neutral hue.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Reuse: Jersey Pom Poms

2011-01-24T08:00:00.019-06:00

Floating pom-poms are a playful way to dress up any party space. Consider making an eco-chic version of this party-pleasing craft by substituting tissue paper with recycled jersey.
Photos: Craftaholics Anonymous

Easy Woodland Centerpiece

2011-01-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

In a word, eco-entertaining should be easy. That’s why we are so in love with this simple, yet sophisticated, woodland centerpiece. By assembling some found wood, natural moss and a simple vase filled with several textural sprigs, anyone can easily create an affordable eco-chic centerpiece.

Photo: Green Wedding Shoes

A Fresh Centerpiece

2011-01-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Add a bit of cheer to a winter celebration by creating clean and crisp citrus centerpieces. A simple glass bowl filled with lemons, tangerines or other citrus fruits is a simple and cost-effective way to create colorful centerpieces year-round.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Gothic Glamour

2011-01-17T07:00:00.002-06:00

Add a touch of gothic glamour to your table setting by substituting traditional vases with vintage pharmacy bottles. Online vendors, such as Etsy, carry an eclectic assortment of the bottles at fair prices (we love the bottles adorned with French script, see below).

Photos: Etsy & Ruffled

Lovely Lace

2011-01-14T08:00:00.001-06:00

Nothing says “wedding” like layers of lace. When planning the décor for your homemade wedding be sure to browse consignment shops for scraps of vintage lace. Consider trimming table edges or the edges of your cake stand with this elegant accent. Looking for another option? Thick strips of vintage lace will serve as unexpected “hangers” from which you can drape small glass candleholders.

Photos: Austin Wedding Blog

From Trash to Treasure

2011-01-12T08:00:00.002-06:00

One person’s trash is certainly another person’s treasure, as proven by this brightly colored outdoor party. Everything from soda cans to jelly jars to reused pint boxes are given a charming second life thanks to a bit of playful creative vision.

Photos: Green Wedding Shoes

Reclaimed Elegance

2011-01-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

When wintry weather blows into town, a burst of bright color can go a pretty long way. Get out of a cold weather rut by setting your party table with brightly colored vintage plates, secondhand pastel-hued glasses and reclaimed bold blue mason jars.

Photos: My Kate Parker Wedding & Gracie Lou Events

Elegant Eco Wall Hangings

2011-01-06T07:00:00.001-06:00

Add a bit of drama to an otherwise bland wall or window by creating unexpectedly elegant wall hangings made from recycled bottles and a few locally grown flowers (we also really like the “curtain rod” made from a natural branch, as pictured above).

Photo: Once Wed

Charming Woodland Table Numbers

2011-01-05T07:00:00.001-06:00

There is no need to over think creative eco place card options thanks to this simple DIY idea. Simply secure homemade tags made from twine and recycled cardstock onto thick pieces of fallen branches in order to create charming one-of-a-kind table numbers and place cards.

Photo: Ruffled

Spring Seating

2011-01-04T07:00:00.001-06:00

Though there are still a few months of chilly weather ahead, now is the perfect time to begin planning for spring soirees. Bring a bit of shabby chic flair to an outdoor affair with an eclectic mix of colorful seating. Scour flea markets and garage sales for inexpensive secondhand finds and ask friends and neighbors for seating options that you can borrow for the day to help you save both money and resources.

Photo: Once Wed

Recycled Paper Streamers

2011-01-03T07:00:00.001-06:00

Ring in the New Year with chic recycled décor. With just a few snips and a bit of creativity, leftover rolls of holiday wrapping paper are transformed into decidedly sophisticated streamers.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas! We will be back in a few days! Until then, enjoy browsing our archives for modern eco inspiration!

Last Minute Eco Ornaments

2010-12-23T16:09:00.000-06:00

Time to put the final trimming on your tree before your holiday guests arrive? Use resources that you likely have around your home, such as loose buttons, to create quick last minute touches for your festive soiree.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Edible Cones

2010-12-22T12:34:00.000-06:00

When in search of storage for small favors, rather than purchase paper cones, which will more than likely end up in the trash, organize your treats in edible waffle cones. Fill each waffle cone with small tasty favors, such as roasted nuts. Rest one cone at each place setting for an inexpensive and relatively waste-free favor option that is just as simple as it is sweet.

Photo: Food Network

Cranberry Ice Cubes

2010-12-20T09:29:00.000-06:00

Add some festive color to your holiday bar display without the need to add extra waste. Sprinkle loose (compost-friendly) cranberries in your ice cube trays prior to freezing. Once frozen, fill all your ice buckets with these very merry ice cubes for an extra pop of holiday cheer.

Photo: Country Living

Cranberry Place Cards

2010-12-13T17:56:00.000-06:00

There is no need to waste tons of money (and resources) in order to add a splash of festive color to your holiday table setting. Handfuls of cranberries (which can be cooked or composted after serving a decorative use) offer beautiful bursts of red to any tabletop. Fill small glasses and votive holders with cranberries as well as simple handwritten notes for instant holiday place cards. For an added pop of color sprinkle loose cranberries down the center of your table or around your holiday centerpiece.

Photo: Country Living

Elegant Recycled Holiday Décor

2010-12-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

While cleaning up before your holiday guests arrive, be sure to think twice before tossing old magazines. With just a few easy steps you can transform these glossy pages into glittery decorative tabletop trees.

Photo: Martha Stewart

DIY Eco Ornaments

2010-12-09T18:50:00.000-06:00

Create a unique holiday tree with these quick (and compostable) DIY ornaments. First, preheat your oven to 200 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather a variety of citrus fruits – including oranges, lemons, tangerines, blood oranges, grapefruits and the like – and cut into thin slices (be sure to discard any seeds). Spread the slices across the baking sheet and bake until they are dried out (about two to three hours), being sure to flip the fruit every half hour. Once the ornaments are completely dry and cool, pierce them with paper clips or ornament hooks.

Photos: Whole Foods & Whole Living

Recycled Greeting Card Gift Tags

2010-12-07T19:33:00.000-06:00

Too many holiday greeting cards left over from last year? Before you toss them into the trash consider reusing them to create charming DIY gift tags. The festive artwork will add an extra dose of holiday cheer to all of your presents this season.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Nostalgic Ornaments

2010-12-06T17:15:00.000-06:00

Put old seed packets to good use this holiday by transforming them into colorful eco-friendly ornaments. Don’t have any lying around? Look to online retailers and local botanical gardens for vintage seed packets that contain unique heirloom seeds (as well as beautifully nostalgic artwork). Come January consider putting the packets aside until the warm weather months when the seeds can be added to your garden.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Silver and Gold

2010-12-01T18:53:00.000-06:00

Beat the winter blues this year with an eco-chic bouquet made from silver, gold and ivory-hued vintage brooches. After your ceremony set the bouquet in a festive vase to display with your holiday décor.

Photo: Emmaline Bride

Post-Holiday Clean Up

2010-11-30T19:31:00.000-06:00

Now that the autumn holidays are over take some time to reorganize your cleaning supplies in preparation for the winter entertaining season. Tidy up closets and cabinet shelves with a collection of convenient see-through storage canisters. Reused and recycled glass jars, such as Mason jars, jelly jars and spaghetti-sauce jars, serve as easy and inexpensive green storage receptacles for sponges, cloths and other basic cleaning supplies.

Photo: Whole Living

Natural Harvest-Inspired Accents

2010-11-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

No need to toss too-long tablecloths when prepping your Thanksgiving table setting. With a bit of twine and some natural harvest-inspired accents, such as dried slices of citrus fruits, pesky linens can easily be draped to fit any sized table.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Heart-Healthy Favors

2010-11-22T16:29:00.000-06:00

Treat your Thanksgiving guests to some heart-healthy favors this year by creating cones made from reclaimed fabric remnants, which can then be filled with nuts or other small snacks.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Archive Love: Ferns: Crisp Tabletop Decor

2010-11-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

When dreaming up their tabletop aesthetic, many hostesses immediately imagine brightly colored blooming flowers as part of the repertoire. However, fresh green ferns lend a light, crisp tropical feel to any table. When using ferns aim to keep things simple. Just a few sprigs of fern look modern when paired with glass containers, clean white linens and just a few earth-colored accents, such as a burlap runner.

Photos: 100 Layer Cake

Archive Love: Rustic Mint Chandelier

2010-11-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

Just because the long days of summer are slowly winding down doesn’t mean it is time to abandon the many natural décor “supplies” still available in your own backyard. Create a rustic atmosphere by crafting a hanging chandelier made from small pots of mint or other fragrant herbs. Use clippings of the herbs as fresh garnishes for cocktails and entrées throughout the party.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Archive Love: Burlap Runners

2010-11-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

In recent years burlap (a sustainable textile) has made a new name for itself in the world of décor and party design. Neutral burlap table runners lend to an elegant aesthetic when paired with vintage-inspired place settings and delicate votives.

Photos: The Wedding Chicks

Archive Love: Make a Wish

2010-11-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

No need to blow out a candle to make a wish thanks to these wishbone napkin rings. To get the look simply wash and dry natural wishbones and coat each in a layer of metallic paint. This is an easy eco way to create a modern autumnal place setting.

Photo: Martha Stewart

Archive Love: Recycled Paper

2010-11-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

When incorporating recycled paper into your party décor think of unique options that surpass bags of confetti. This lovely table setting features rippled placemats, napkin covers, chair accents and other small table accessories all crafted from reclaimed book pages.

Photos: Green Wedding Shoes

Archive Love: Sophisticated Earthy Decor

2010-11-12T07:00:00.003-06:00

By selecting just a few well-edited accents, any hostess can create a party that is equally earthy and sophisticated. Natural wood accents, such as those pictured below, serve as unexpected, textural trivets while large potted herbs steal the spotlight as naturally stylish centerpieces. Trying to conserve paper? Consider neatly writing guests’ names on natural flat surfaces, such as smooth river rocks.

Photos: 100 Layer Cake

Archive Love: Autumn Eco Decor Inspiration

2010-11-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

Although summer will long be our favorite season, growing up in the Northeast encourages a certain love of the changing seasons. In addition to cozy new scarves and crisp autumn air, September means fall-inspired party décor. Whether it is a laid-back potluck, a harvest celebration or a formal dinner party, take a cue from the natural world when creating your fall party aesthetic. Fresh mosses make for elegant table runners and woodland-inspired centerpieces that are simultaneously earthy and modern. However, a woodland theme can be incorporated into more than just a single centerpiece. Consider using natural elements such as bark and birch to create one-of-a-kind coasters, trivets and a multitude of other eco-chic accents.

Photos: Project Wedding & Martha Stewart & Once Wed

Archive Love: Custom Tea

2010-11-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

Offer your guests a stylish (and eco) choice post-dinner by arranging reclaimed mason jars filled with varieties of organic teas around each table. To keep things custom, create colorful, one-of-a-kind tags for each bag.

Photo: Once Wed

Archive Love: A Glass Rainbow

2010-11-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

We love the simplistic beauty found in a collection of assorted glass canisters. Whether you choose to display bottles in the same color family or to collect a mixture of jewel-toned pieces, the final look is certain to be one of modern sophistication. Before tossing used bottles or jars give them a second life. Does their color or shape make them worthy of a centerpiece display? If a search through your home doesn’t leave you with enough pieces to make a complete collection, browse for secondhand finds at local yard sales, flea markets and thrift shops, which are certain to carry unique glass pieces at budget-friendly prices.

Photos: Oh Joy

Archive Love: Recycled Cityscape

2010-11-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

Photo: The Knot

Archive Love: Farm-Inspired Favors

2010-11-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Look to your local farmers’ market for favor inspiration. Although the many fruits, vegetables and other artisanal food products will add a burst of color to any centerpiece, consider the packaging as well. Small pint boxes, commonly used to store berries and tomatoes, are the perfect size to carry a miniature collection of favors for your guests. The bright colors of the reused boxes, as well as their instant association with the warm weather seasons, will give any table a fresh, summer look.

Photos: Elizabeth Anne Design

2010-11-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

With autumn approaching, party décor will soon be making the shift from bright, seaside-inspired palettes to more earthy tones. As you begin to think about creative decorative touches for your fall affairs consider this idea, which transforms found natural elements into table-ready accents. Give thick pieces of fallen branches a second life as rustic place card holders and vases. When the party is done, compost the branches to help support your zero-waste party-planning efforts.

Photos: Once Wed

Archive Love: Farm Fresh Favors

2010-11-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Photos: Brides

Archive Love: Button Cards

2010-11-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Dress up a set of simple cloth napkins with pretty button cards. The cards, which can be found at secondhand shops, garage sales, or, as in the case of my family, nearly any drawer in my grandmother’s home, are the perfect size to serve as feminine, vintage-inspired napkin “rings.” Simply punch holes on either side of the card, lace some ribbon or twine through each hole and loosely tie on the underside of each napkin.

Photo: Country Living

Archive Love: Paper Flowers

2010-11-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

Avoid unwanted pesticides and a short shelf life by substituting some live flowers with ornate paper flowers instead. Paper flowers can be enjoyed for months after an event and, compliments of their intricate designs, are certain to be the buzz among guests at nearly any cocktail hour.

Photos: Emmaline Bride

Archive Love, Week 4: Cork Place Card Holders

2010-10-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

Drinking wine can provide you with more than healthy antioxidants. It can also provide you with recycled resources that are perfect for DIY party décor. Using a sharp knife, slice off the rounded edge of one side of each cork in order to create a flat surface. On the opposite side of each cork, carefully slice a straight, narrow line. Wedge place cards into the corks for easy eco-friendly place card holders.

Photo: Project Wedding

Archive Love, Week 4: Vintage Hankies

2010-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Touching vows. A memorable dance. The perfect speech. Many events lend to a trail of happy tears. Help your guests dry their eyes with vintage hankies. Organize small baskets or boxes of the hankies within easy reach to help your guests dry their eyes whenever needed (in the picture below, a small note reads “keep your eyes dry & your heart warm [please take one]”).

Photo: Once Wed