Greta Thunberg was Time’s Person of the Year, and for good reason. As 2020 kicks off, we are increasingly aware of our responsibility to the planet and each other. Luckily for us, so many eco-conscious catering companies are on hand to make our celebrations sustainable — and delicious. Expect to see greener celebrations as the decade unfolds.
When it comes to sustainability in events, Walden (a full-service event space that includes planning and catering, opening in Chicago’s West Town) is at the forefront of the movement. A few of the ways they’re working to ensure more eco-friendly celebrations include eliminating single-use products, engaging in full-stream composting and recycling, investing in renewable energy, and taking steps to carbon-offset every celebration in the space. Read on to see how these seven celebrations, from New York to California, incorporated sustainable practices in their beautiful events.
A Very Vegan Wedding
Vegan-friendly menus are on the rise — just look at the 70% plant-based menu featured at this year Oscars’ Governors Ball. For this chic wedding, guests enjoyed an innovative all-vegan menu crafted by Culinary Eye Catering & Events. As a green-certified business, with a carbon offset program in the works, this catering company was a perfect choice for the eco-conscious bride and groom.
photographer: Truong Photography | production, décor, & caterer: Culinary Eye Catering & Events | venue: Dogpatch Wineworks | rentals: Bright Event Rentals | entertainment: DJ Mexican Spitfire
The Bee’s Knees
A dinner party at Big Delicious Planet, a Chicago urban farm, allowed guests to enjoy local, eco-friendly catering amidst picturesque vegetable gardens. Two onsite beehives gave celebrants a chance to learn something new as well as indulge in the sweeter side of life. Best of all, the artfully-plated food proved that sustainability and beauty easily go hand-in-hand, with it honey-centric menu.
photographer, planner, caterer & venue: Big Delicious Planet | décor: Flowers for Dreams | rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals
Build Your Own Edible Terrarium
This spring cocktail soirée featured not only a delicious caterer devoted to sustainable practices, like using only biodegradable goods and composting their own waste — but also a twist on healthy eating. We love how a “build your own edible terrarium” station by Bartleby & Sage allowed guests to reconnect with the natural world (all while indoors) as well as interact with friends in new and creative ways. With food this delicious and fun, we want to celebrate the earth all year round.
photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio | caterer: Bartleby & Sage
Vineyard Wedding with Local Produce
This couple said “I do” to each other (and sustainability) at this chic outdoor wedding. AP Events and Catering Inc., a catering company with organic produce sourced directly from their own farm, created a scrumptious and artfully-presented menu. We are especially salivating over the figs with goat cheese and lemon as well as the honey drizzle with edible flowers.
photographer: The Shalom Imaginative | planner: Amiee D’maris | décor & caterer: AP Events and Catering Inc. | venue: Château de Fagent | Rentals Encore Events Rentals & La Tavola Fine Linen | a/v technology: Lighting Company | entertainment: DJ Moses and DJ Khosmo | shuttle: Beau Wine Tours
Greenhouse Vibes
Paramount Events catered this eco-friendly pop-up shop for Just Inc brand. We love how the slogan, “made from plants,” was featured in neon signage on a lush green backdrop. Guests sipped on charcoal margaritas and relaxed on chic wicker seating — all while enjoying the greenhouse vibe. Views of soaring skyscrapers fused with lush hanging plants to create a peaceful oasis in bustling Downtown Chicago.
caterer: Paramount Events
Eco-conscious, Luxe Dinner Party
With Limelight Catering, the first “green” caterer in Chicago, guests at this luxe dinner party could expect a delectable and seasonal, farm-to-table dining experience. Beautiful, marbled menus set against ornate tableware gave guests a chance to anticipate the delicious night ahead. We especially love the lavish florals and personalized dessert displays given to each and every celebrant.
photographer: Christy Tyler Photography | planner & tabletop styling: Shannon Gail Events | décor: Revel Decor & Luxe Productions | venue: Chez | | caterer: Limelight Catering | invitations & print: Allie Hasson | rentals: Bowery & Bash & Nimble Well
A Garden in the City
This milestone-birthday party celebrated more than just the birthday girl. Hosted at Big Delicious Planet, this celebration also honored the environment and sustainably sourced dining. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully planned (and delicious meal) in the midst of this beautiful garden. We love how the sapphire napkins pop against clean white table linens — all without distracting from the beauty of the natural surroundings.
photographer, décor, venue, invitations & print, catering: Big Delicious Planet |rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals and Windy City Linen
featured venue
THE CRYSTAL BALLROOM & LOUNGE IN EVANSTON
We adore this newly renovated event space offering flexible luxe spaces bringing your dream event to life. photographer: Artisan Events