Shining New Light On Setting the Mood

If it melts, chances are it’s either too messy, impractical or not sustainable. Candles, popsicles and ice sculptures all have a shelf life, and bottom line they’re not the most practical or cost efficient way to add flare to an event. It seems rather customary that the end of an event would likely mean the end of all materials associated with it, and oh my, how clean up would be such a breeze- to the dumps! However, as sustainability comes into focus, extra thought must be put into a concise method of reusing items, and at the very least reducing damage and waste that remain after the fun. Dkkevents goes to great lengths to use items that can pack a multi-party punch. The key is to deliver an event that is chic, practical AND sustainable. Switching up things from traditional wax candles to battery powered is a strong move in the direction of eco-friendly events. They stand up to the elements, have an endless light source (well, energizer life span), and they stack easily when it’s time to clean up. What about all those toxic dead batteries you ask? Fortunately, the Internet has easy solutions to battery burn out with articles like Battery Recycling For Dummies, which explains the health and environmental concerns associated with improper disposal of household batteries. And because there are inconsistent regulations on which batteries (and electronics) to recycle where, companies like Battery Solutions offer an iRecycle Kit. You ship a pre-paid container with your bum electronic devices and/or batteries to their recycling center, and they safely handle the rest! Call2Recycle encourages “Recharging the Planet” one battery at a time, and takes the message of responsible recycling to new heights with it’s superbly informative and interactive website.

No need to fear a return to the dark ages, however, if batteries aren’t your style. There are additional eco-friendly options that replace conventional paraffin based candles, which emit harmful toxins into the air, produce black soot, cause pollution, and may cause health problems. Paraffin is a leftover byproduct from the petroleum refining process and is not a renewable resource. For those of you still warmed by the atmospheric glow of a candle flame, soy and beeswax, along with palm and vegetable wax are fantastic alternatives. In addition to the candle itself, the wick is a sneaky toxin. Take notice to look for candles with cotton, paper or hemp wicks, and be sure they’re chemical-free and lead-free. I’m happy to share that health, environmental harmony and a cozy ambience can all co-exist. Sustainability is a definitely a mood worth creating. LINKS: