Top 5 Eco Tips for Hosting an Oscar Party

The Academy Awards are coming up, and I’ve been a fan of the show since childhood. Even if I haven’t seen any of the nominated movies (as is the case this year), it’s fun to ogle the stars, laugh at Ellen’s jokes and discuss fashion with my daughter. Last year I even wrote about the eco gowns on the red carpet. (I’m hoping for more of those this year.)

With Oscar season comes Oscar parties, so here are a few ways you can green yours.

Photo: Davidlohr Bueso/Flickr

1. Cast Your Vote Electronically

   It may seem like a small thing, but why print out ballots when some sites offer easy online voting? Both Oscar.go.com and Entertainment Tonight offer options where you can make your picks via Facebook and even compare with friends. An added benefit? The computer does all the tallying so you don’t have to worry about your math skills after downing a few drinks.

2. Serve Sustainable Snacks

   Think local by creating appetizers with what’s available from your farmers market. Sustainable Table offers lots of recipes. Serve them alongside organic wine and beer.

   While these treats aren’t necessarily sustainable, they are nut-free and super cute: Oscar-themed cookies from Eleni’s New York. She’ll ship the cookies or cupcakes next day so you can take a bite out of Christian Bale.

3. DIY Décor

   Look around your house and you’ll stumble upon any number of items that can be repurposed as Oscar party décor. For the statue himself, use a child’s trophy or an old Ken doll painted gold. Repurpose old negatives to make filmstrip candles.
   Fold cloth napkins into award envelopes. A red blanket can be rolled out as the red carpet, and simple white table linens provide a classy backdrop alongside silver barware and glass flutes.

   

   Photo: partyblog.mygrafico.com

4. Thrift Shop Threads

   Dress up like the stars. Check out thrift shops or get some use out of that old bridesmaid gown. Go over-the-top glam with costume jewelry from Grandma’s collection. With an iron-on transfer or a little paint, you can convert old T-shirts into those classy tuxedo tees the kids will love. Download a design here.

5. Green Your TV

   Obviously, the more people you gather together around one TV, the less energy wasted. You can also watch the Academy Awards via an Internet-based system instead of a cable box, which is a major waste of energy, averaging about 34 watts (even when not in use) compared to less than 7 watts from streaming Internet content through Apple TV or Roku. (source)

What are you doing for the Oscars?

This post is featured on Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways.