How to Have a Green Baby Shower

Congratulations! You’re having a baby. And since you consider yourself quite the eco-friendly parent, it’s no wonder that you’d like to extend that to your baby shower plans. And there’s no time like the present to turn our celebrations into more of a “green” gathering.

Here’s how to do it:

#1 – Eco-friendly invitations – Paper invites are great but you can save paper by simply using e-invitations. You can make up your own using word or one of the computer graphic programs. You can also use one of the online greeting card services if you prefer. Then simply hit send and you’re done. Do remember to ask people to RSVP as email programs are not always reliable.

Alternatively, you can get a little more creative and make homemade baby shower invitations using newspaper and recyclable cardboard. Cut a small square of newspaper and then a smaller square of plain cardboard paper. Glue the cardboard paper to the newspaper square (so that the newspaper forms a frame of sorts) then writer your baby shower details on the cardboard paper.

#2 – Eco-friendly food – Use locally grown and seasonal foods for a completely “green” baby shower. Where possible use organic ingredients. You can make mini-sandwiches using a variety of spreads and don’t forget to have a few vegetarian options. Then add a plate of locally grown crudités with a homemade dip, a couple of fruit platters and an array of mini cakes (using free-range organic eggs, of course).

The recipes don’t need to be difficult and the best food is often the least fuss-free good. A plate of locally produced cheeses with a side of grapes and other cut fruits look glorious and taste delicious. Fresh veggies presented in a natural state with cutting of farmhouse bread and a few dips are sure to please as well.

#3 – Eco-friendly gifts – You definitely want to pamper your baby with lots of present but how about letting people know you’d prefer earth-friendly gifts? You can gently squeeze your preferences into the invitations by letting people know you’re having an eco-friendly shower and that eco-friendly / earth-friendly gifts are appreciated.

Another option (if you have too many presents!) is to ask for a donation to your favorite green charity instead of a traditional present.

#4 – Eco-friendly decorations – Traditional decorations can add up to lots of waste. A greener option is to use cloth decorations. Outdoor bunting in an array of colors looks classy and is a more earth-friendly option. Use regular plates instead of the easier paper option. Sure it means you have a little extra washing up to do, but get a few close friends to help!

Other eco-friendly options are recycled homemade decorations – you can use cardboard, newspaper, small pieces of wood, leaves and any other natural resources you can find. Think outside the box a little with this. A raffia string tied around cutlery looks great and has a natural flair. Place cards tied to pine cones also adds to the rustic effect.

You can also use natural greenery and flowers as natural decoration options which will be enjoyed by all and look even prettier than paper decorations.

Throwing a “green” baby shower isn’t very difficult. Stick to simplicity and keep things as earth-friendly as possible and you and your guests will have a wonderful time – and help the planet in the process.

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