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By Mary Beth Roberts

With a hole puncher and some creativity, you can turn old paint chip cards into stylish wineglass tags.

Think multi-purpose and repurpose.
Look for things around your home that are reusable. For example use glass jugs as wine decanters at one get-together, then use the same jug as a flower vase at another. Or, use your party decorations as gifts for the guests.

Also, take a look at things around your home from a different perspective. You know those old paint chip cards you used when you were trying to decide what color to paint the spare bedroom. They can be turned into great gift tags or wineglass IDs. Put a hole in them with a hole puncher, string ribbon through them and tie them to your glass or package.

BYOSP (Bring Your Own Serving Pieces)
If you hire a caterer, bring your own serving dishes to him before the party. That way, the caterer can place prepared food in your serving dishes. You'll eliminate the need for the Styrofoam or plastic trays used to transport the food to your party, packaging that will end up in a landfill.

Also, instead of plastic wrap to cover items, ask the caterer to use wax paper and aluminum foil. Wax paper is completely biodegradable. And, aluminum foil is recyclable as long as the food isn't baked or stuck on the foil

Rentals
You can rent decorations and dinnerware. Return them when you're done, instead of throwing them out. This can be one of the simplest green things that can be done for entertaining...and most affordable.

Recycled, if you please.
If the guest list is so long you must use disposable dishes, look for biodegradable choices such as bowls and dishes made from recycled paper or a renewable resource like bamboo. Also, if you must have balloons use ones made from recycled latex.

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