If the event is one at which guests usually bring gifts, you might add to the invitation that the couple is interested in the environment. But do not make it sound as though, the guests are obligated to bring eco-friendly gifts. This may be difficult for most people to do and may cause hard feelings. For those individuals that would like to try and bring something “green”, try looking for items such as non-toxic cleaners, all natural bath products, rice paper note cards or even a soy made garment.
Indeed, the …

If decorating the tables with fancy candles, try using organic soy candles or palm oil based candles with all cotton wicks. The idea is to avoid petroleum based candles and lead wicks which are toxic when burned.
Also, make sure to ask the location if candles are acceptable. Some venues do not like the drippings on the furniture or the table linens.

When purchasing supplies, try to buy in bulk instead of large quantities of small packets. This way, there will be less packaging to throw away. This is particularly important when you are holding the reception in your home, garden, or self-serve hall. You might not have much choice in a banquet hall when they purchase the supplies for their own inventory.
But the reception is not the only event at which party supplies are needed. Don’t forget to buy in bulk for bridal showers, the wedding rehearsal party, the stag, …

Undoubtedly, it will be hard to replace paper napkins altogether at most functions. For the wedding reception, the couple may opt for fancy linens on the table which would mean that each guest would have a cloth napkin as part of his/her place setting. And, in fact, this is quite elegant for most weddings.
But for other functions, cloth napkins may not be feasible. An informal barbecue reception outside, for example. To remedy this, choose napkins that are made with recycled paper materials and avoid colored and/or patterned napkins. The dye …

It is inevitable that every time someone holds a function, the host will run to the store to buy plastic forks, spoons and knives. But stop and wait a second please. If the couple in whose honor you are giving the party prefers to reduce and preserve, purchase utensils that are biodegradable. These special utensils are usually made with potato starch, corn starch or a combination of the two.
And while many people might be leary that the utensils will hold not hold up in extreme temperatures, they are made to …