Green Holidays: Sustainable Holiday Table Decorations

It’s the holiday season and all-around dinner party hosts are struggling to have a functional and fabulous table. The decor helps add to the ambiance, but you also don’t want it distracting or getting in the way of the food. While you can take ideas from Pinterest, try to err on the side of less consumption if possible. This year, why not embrace sustainability in your holiday celebrations by focusing on eco-friendly table decor? With a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can craft a stunning table setting that reflects the spirit of the season while being kind to the planet. 

Use Natural Elements

Nature offers an abundance of beautiful and sustainable decor options. Incorporate items like pinecones, evergreen branches, dried orange slices, and berries into your table setting. These are all easily obtained by going outside on a walk or a trip to the market. These elements are biodegradable, readily available, and bring a rustic, festive charm to your decor. Arrange them as a centerpiece or scatter them around the table for a natural, cohesive look.

Repurpose and Reuse

Instead of buying new items, explore what you already have at home. Glass jars can be transformed into candle holders or vases for small floral arrangements. Old tablecloths or fabric scraps can become elegant napkins or table runners. By repurposing, you reduce waste and add a unique, personal touch to your table!

Choose Sustainable Materials

When purchasing new decor items, opt for sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled glass. Look for decorations made by local artisans or fair-trade organizations to support ethical practices. Many towns currently have craft fairs going on to help small local businesses sell their products, try attending one of these! Avoid single-use plastics and glitter, which can harm the environment and are difficult to recycle.

DIY Decorations

Get creative with do-it-yourself decorations. Craft paper snowflakes from recycled paper, or create place cards from seed paper that guests can plant after the celebration. Involving family and friends in making decor adds a personal and memorable touch to the holidays.

Opt for LED Lighting

Candles and string lights set a cozy, festive mood and they can be eco-friendly. Choose soy-based or beeswax candles, which are renewable and emit fewer toxins than paraffin. For string lights, use energy-efficient LED bulbs to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

Incorporate Seasonal Produce

Fruit and vegetables can double as decor and snacks. Display pomegranates, cranberries, or a bowl of citrus fruits as part of your centerpiece. These not only add vibrant color but also minimize waste as they can be consumed later. You can either eat them later, dry them out for decoration, or make your own potpourri! 

Sustainable Place Settings

Swap out disposable tableware for reusable options. Use cloth napkins and ceramic or glass plates instead of paper or plastic. For an added festive touch, tie the napkins with twine and tuck in a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick.

Plan for Clean-Up

Set up a system to recycle and compost after the celebration. Provide clearly labeled bins so guests can easily dispose of waste responsibly. Compost food scraps and biodegradable decor items to ensure nothing goes to waste.

Final Thoughts

By incorporating these sustainable ideas, you’ll not only create a stunning holiday table but also make a positive impact on the environment. Celebrating with eco-consciousness in mind adds an extra layer of meaning to your festivities, showing care for the planet and future generations. This holiday season, let your table reflect not just your style, but your values too. Cheers to a green and joyful celebration!