‘Tis the season of the office holiday party. And while these year-end get togethers can be a great opportunity to socialize with your co-workers away from the daily grind, they can also be stressful and bad for the environment.

Our suggestion? Keep it simple, and sustainable. Organizing an eco-friendly holiday party demonstrates your company values and can make a lasting positive impression on your employees. And that just makes good business sense.

Here are five simple tips to help make this year’s office celebration sustainable, socially responsible, and fun!

Email the Invites

When it comes to sending out invitations, digital is always the greener choice. A simple email will do the trick, or have some fun and create an e-card online. They’re easy to send to a group, people can RSVP right away, and keeping track of who’s coming is a breeze.

Planning a larger event? Create an event on Facebook to help spread the word.

Book Local

Reduce your carbon footprint by booking a venue that’s close to home, centrally located, and accessible by public transit. Encourage your team to go green by offering incentives for ride-sharing, or provide a shuttle service to and from your venue so people can leave their cars at home.

Eat Local

Ask your caterer to prepare a menu using local, seasonal products and consider choosing organic options whenever possible. Buying local supports producers in your area, and because the food doesn’t have to travel a long distance to get to your plate it’s also better for the environment.

To keep food waste to a minimum, take a close look at consumption at past events and ask your caterer to donate any leftovers to a local shelter.

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Use Real or Recyclable Dishes

The holidays are always a great excuse to pull out the good china. Using real dishes, cutlery and glassware is one of the easiest ways to green your holiday party, and it makes a great impression too.

If china isn’t an option, choose disposable plates, cutlery and cups that are 100% recyclable, and provide clearly marked bins for different types of party waste – paper, plastics, glass, and food. Don’t forget to provide pitchers of water instead of bottled water to help reduce plastic waste!

Give to a Cause

Nobody needs another mug, candle, or box of chocolates. Instead of the traditional gift exchange, consider asking people to donate to a local charity or to bring a present for a child in need.

Plan you party with us!

At Heritage London Foundation, we make it easy to plan an unforgettable and sustainable holiday office party. Our two historic properties – Elsie Perrin Williams Estate and Grosvenor Lodge – are conveniently located and completely customizable to meet your needs. You’ll have the venue to yourself, and you can choose from among three preferred caterers, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy the celebration.

It’s not too late to book your Holiday Office Party at Elsie Perrin Williams or Grosvenor Lodge. Contact Paige at bookings@londonheritagefoundation.ca for details.