LOVE IS ETERNAL, BUT SO IS PLASTIC. Have A Plastic-Free Valentines Day.
Valentine’s Day and Plastic are in a toxic relationship. Who decided that roses wrapped in plastic are the best way to say I love you? It’s time for us all to break up with single-use plastics, and Green My Plate is here to help and support you through the process… and spread some love!
LOVE FLOWERS?
I’m really bitter about the fact that my boyfriend never buys me flowers. However, I do always insist that he reads all my blogs before I send them in (Hi Jed :)). I guess that does mean though that all these years I have already avoided my fair share of plastic wrapping - perhaps this is the greatest gift of all? Anyway, before picking up the first bunch of roses you see in the supermarket, have a little Google around your local area and I’m confident you’ll find a plastic-free florist or at least one who has a plastic-free range. If you can’t, still hit them up, but let them know your stance and fingers crossed they’ll be able to suss something out for you (it is 2021 after all) and you might even inspire them to think about their practices.
LOVE CHOCOLATE?
Think outside the chocolate box, skip the packaging and make your own sweet treats for your sweetheart. Bake cupcakes in reusable silicone cases, lovingly decorated a cake, or whip up whatever your loved one desires… but mould into an obligatory heart shape. If you don’t have a drawer full of moulds, cookie cutters, plates and bowls - now is the time to find them in your local second-hand store. Alternatively, plan to make something a little less technical: this year I’m keeping it simple with some Chocolate and Raspberry Bliss Balls, but sticking to the Valentines theme, I’ll attempt to squash them into a heart shape *fingers crossed*.
LOVE PRESENTS?
The best way to have a plastic-free Valentine's Day is to buy nothing at all. Gift an experience. Make a playlist. Recreate a date. Make memories. Play a board game. Crack open that bottle of champagne you’ve been saving. Go for a walk and let nature showcase her beauty. Sit and gaze into each other’s eyes. Or at the stars. Alternatively, make sure your gift supports a local or small business and sustainable practices.
LOVE BIG ROMANTIC GESTURES?
I think it’s safe to say we’re going to leave skywriting behind in 2020. And hopefully, another form of air-litter too: balloons. Instead, DIY your own love-themed decorations! Some ideas for you: paint a poster to hang on the wall; make a garland or bunting from scrap paper (paint it red for bonus points); decorate a mason jar with old tissue paper hearts and pop in a candle, or become a walking advert for your love by writing a romantic quip on an old shirt and wear it all day!
LOVE EATING?
A homemade meal by candlelight has the opportunity to be both the most romantic and most plastic-free way to dine this Valentine’s Day. If you’re already in the habit of bulk buying, shopping at zero waste stores and growing your own then you’re already well on your way to plastic freedom - eat up and enjoy! But, don’t forget to make it a meal to remember. Obviously, nothing says ‘I love you’ more than a heart-shaped meal. Pizza, ravioli, quesadillas and burgers are super easy to shape. Or, how about arranging your meal as a heart-shaped platter instead? Last year I did veggie sushi, and this year tacos are on the menu. Complete the table with a sprinkling of rose petals, and if you’re feeling crafty, make paper fortune cookies to unveil a romantic desire.
LOVE GREEN MY PLATE?
Don’t waste the most romantic day of the year doing dishes. If you’re planning on catering a big buffet and don’t have enough plates, or celebrating in a group and CBA with the mess. Remember - GMP LOVE doing dishes and can cater for your personal events too. Get in touch if you’re in Aus or NZ and let’s make it happen!
