In honor of Lil’ E’s recently celebrated June birthday, I want to focus on greening your next party – particularly your child’s birthday party. From invites to favors, it is possible to go green in every aspect of a children’s party.

Invites:

I have personally become a fan of electronic invites. It is easier to get RSVPs and saves money on postage and invitations. Anyone savvy in Photoshop or other design programs can easily design a fun invite to send out for their child’s party. A simple photo collage created on sites such as Picnik.com can be a hit as well. Not too design savvy? Just send a good old fashion E-vite from Evite.com and let them do the work for you. The website offers new designs on a regular basis and allows extensive personalization.

But, let’s say the grandparents aren’t big computer fans, and you still need a few invites mailed. Some of my favorite sites are Polka Dot Designs and Earthly Affair. I have used Polka Dot Designs for several parties. They recently launched their green line, which can be found by looking for the green leaf next to the invite. Earthly Affair is a little more elegant, but gorgeous for a something simple and sweet.

Serve ware:
I personally believe in buying everything in white. A stack of small white melamine plates in dinner and cake sizes are reusable no matter what theme you decide on. Year after year, these can be used at kid and adult parties alike. For a fun twist, stock up on plates of different sizes, shapes, and colors throughout the year and just mix and match. The end of season sales at Target have adorable deals on melamine plates.

Food:
Try a classic snack such as Ants on a Log using organic celery, cream cheese (or peanut butter) topped with raisins. Add a little animal cracker on the end for added flair, because what Lion doesn’t want to eat ants? Or fill Organic Waffle Cones, by Let’s Do Organic, with fruit from your local farmers’ market. This is sure to be a fun (and handy) treat.

Decorations:
I have been on a banner craze lately. I love all things banner. To make a simple, party-friendly banner, start with scraps of recycled paper, cardboard cereal boxes, newspapers, or any other paper lying around the house. Make a triangle template as your guide and cut different color and texture papers. Attach the paper to the ribbon or string using staples – or for a cleaner look, fold paper over and secure with glue. An alternative to this idea is the classic version of popcorn and cranberry garland. This garland isn’t just for Christmas! Or, mix and match banners and garland for a festive look.

Decorate tables with colorful flowers from your garden, or enlist the help of your child to find greenery or cones to line the tables.

Favors:
Mix favors and serve ware all in one. Give kids reusable cups and paint to decorate their cup during the party. If kids are too young for paint, or if the mess scares you, give the children stickers. This is a mess free option that allows you to customize stickers to your child’s favorite character or theme.

Green birthday parties are all the rage in my Mommy groups, and after the initial investment in serve ware you can actually save money over time. The reusable banners can be used or updated for future parties. Use these tips for your little one’s next party and become the envy of your playgroup!