The Collage Foundation: Research

Next time you throw a party, host one that satisfies everyone's palate - including dear Mother Earth's. Valentine's Day is next month. So take the excuse and invite all your friends over to share the love.

by Kelly Cox

First things first: the menu.

Steer clear of greasy appetizers like wings or pigs-in-a-blanket. Valentine's Day brings out the sexy lovers in all of us. And nothing is less sexy then the way you feel after eating over-processed, greasy junk. Ugh.

Instead try an assortment of light finger foods: platters of vegetable crudite' and fruit with various cheeses are always a hit. Organic strawberries and fair trade chocolate are perfect for this holiday. Divine Chocolate bars fit the name! Be sure to melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave on a low setting. You'll need to stir continuously, otherwise, be prepared to burn it baby!

Sticking with the minimalist approach, Sushi is always fun to serve. But I recommend you stock up on reusable chopsticks as millions of waribashi, throw away chopsticks, are the quintessential definition of waste! They cut down trees for that!

Better yet, you can share the responsibility of pleasing everyone's appetite with...everyone! Host a potluck and ask each guest to bring a specific dish or drink, but be sure to emphasize your urban eco-warrior intentions.

Now that you've got the food covered, what are you going to serve it on?

Nothing dampens the Valentine's mood more than knowing that the dishes will be around long past the love is gone. In you live in area with strict recycling programs - that's pretty much everybody outside Northern California - plastic plates are a big no-no. Lucky you, with a finger food party, you don't even have to stress about plate and silverware. Have everybody east off recycled paper napkins. Bon Appetite!

You also want your guests to imbibe in eco-style. Get Creative! Head down to the local flea market or Salvation Army and pick up an assortment of fun retro glasses.

The loveliest day of the year, you can turn up the romance factor by turning down the lights, and save energy while you're at it. Create a warm glow by having lighted candles - of different colors, shapes, and scents - throughout the room. Squelch the fire hazard with Candela rechargeable candles, but they are not the Treehugger favorite (bad plastic!).

Natural elements are also great for ambiance. Flesh flowers are beautiful in their impermanence. Have them in vases throughout the room. Place stones in the bottom of your bathroom sink. Fill corners with colorful pillows and blankets. It will give everything a cozy feeling.

Our friend, Julia Butterfly Hill and her cool-as-pie organization, We the Planet, are pros at throwing shing-digs that replace waste with good times and good people. Now, that sounds like a party! For other, great waste-free party ideas, check out their website www.wetheplanet.org

Finally, prepare a nice selection of music and enjoy the evening!

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