If you have a wedding or any large event that you're planning in the near future, it's good to think of how your choices for that event can affect the environment. Weddings and other such occasions can produce a tremendous amount of rubbish, and use large amounts of energy for the catering alone. Note a few tips you might consider to make the most eco-friendly choices possible when it comes to a wedding reception or any such party, and discuss these with a caterer or wedding event supplier as needed.
Know the sources
Ask your caterer their sources for food dishes, and choose local sources as much as possible. If caterers bring in exotic meats and cheeses from other areas, or purchase items that are made out of state, this means more fumes and emissions from the truckers bringing in those items! Dishes made from meats that are purchased from local farmers or that use fruits and vegetables that are native to your local area can mean less air pollution created by sourcing those ingredients.
Opt for fresh cooking
One reason to opt for fresh cooking rather than dishes that involve frying is that cooking oil is not healthy for the environment when it's tossed in rubbish bins. This oil can be recycled, but this would involve using a caterer that gathers that oil into fire-safe bins and then takes it to a recycling centre. To avoid this or ensure that cooking oil stays out of the rubbish, opt for dishes that are grilled, roasted, or baked, versus serving fried potatoes, fried meats, and the like.
Ask about the caterer's cleaning products
Catering involves a lot of cleanup after the event is over, so ask the caterer about their cleaning products and processes. The most eco-friendly options are natural substances and materials that are not harsh and toxic, and especially materials like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice. You can ask a potential caterer about their cleaning products and as well as how they clean tools and utensils, and then note the chemicals, amount of water, and other details that affect the environment.
Decorations
If the caterer will be providing centrepieces for the tables, avoid using cut flowers that use up energy and fertilizers just to be cut and displayed at a wedding. Opt for potted plants that guests can take home with them; potted herbs such as basil cilantro can even be cut by guests and used to spice their dinners at the event!
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