I was flipping through the latest Martha Stewart Weddings and noticed an article about green registries. I usually think of a green wedding as repurposing items for the decor or dress, choosing locally sourced/organic/sustainable venues and caterers, etc. I really don't think a Sudoku knife or fine china counts as "green" just because it supposedly lasts longer than something that might be less expensive or is made by a green or sustainable company. Still, I thought it was cool to see some ideas for "green" gifts, and I've added a few of my own.
1. Enroll in a CSA. Find a farm that participates in Community Supported Agriculture, one that doesn't have a waiting list and delivers to your area. I think it's an amazing gift idea, especially for people who love to cook. Check out these CSAs in Portland.
2. Screw tops from The Conran Shop. You can use these to turn any container or jar with a screw top into a jug, pourer, shaker, etc. In a wedding I'm doing next month, I am using old jars and bottles as vases for the centerpieces. The screw tops would make an awesome favor to take home with one of the mini-centerpieces so guests could reuse the jars.
3. Register for donations with a nonprofit, either as part of your registry or for the entire registry if you have everything you need for your home already. I have posted a few links here, but I think it's best to pick one close to your heart. Some organizations have gift registries, but if not, just suggest your guests donate a gift of any amount in your name. Make sure to contact someone in the development office and get a list of donations afterwards. I listed environmentally focused agencies below, but there are many, many more here in Oregon:
4. Bamboo robe. This was one from Martha Stewart. They promise that it's "cozy ... and as plush and lush as velvet" You can find it at The Company Store, let me know if you've tried this one! They also has bamboo bedding and a wide variety of organic items for the home.
5. Organic linens. There are many companies now offering organic linens. I like Loop and Eco Sleep Shop. Eco Sleep also has mattresses, pillows, and mattress covers.
6. Composter. I love this one at Gaiam. It is great if you have a small space. They also have a lot of options that are less expensive as well as solar lighting, eco-conscious furniture, and organic linens.
7. Recycled glass dinnerware. I don't love bamboo and wooden dinnerware, and using vintage china can be dangerous because of of lead and other chemicals. I like these from Plates with a Purpose. They're made in Pennsylvania from recycled glass and sustainable materials, and proceeds go to a variety of different causes. They're sold at East West Fusion and Natural Spaces here in Portland.
Here are a few other tips for creating a greener registry:
- Think about combining shipments; ask each vendor if this is possible.
- Pick as many local goods as possible.
- Make sure the company allows for refunds and exchanges.
- Choose items with lifetime warranties when applicable.
- Look for items made from sustainable wood, recycled glass, organic cotton, etc.
- Try to find vendors that donate a portion of their proceeds to charity.
- Use vendors that use free trade products when available.
- Remember to get only what you need and items that best fit your lifestyle.
You don't need to register at only one or two stores anymore. You can set up a registry online with any item you want -- even if the item itself isn't online. You can start a wish list on Google or myregistry.com.
