Disposable Plates at a Wedding?
As I try to plan a wedding, something which you think you can do until you are in the position to, and then realize you have zero experience in doing so and should not be given the privilege*, I am faced with yet another conundrum.
Do we use disposable dinnerware for the wedding reception, and what options are there besides plastic?
The whole thing arose when I told my Sis and Gramms over Thanksgiving that I did not know how much rental dinnerware would cost us, and Gramms suggested I could get pretty clear plastic plates from Walmart and probably save a bundle.
Yep, Gramma. I could save a bundle, but I edit and write articles about not doing exactly that. Using plastic plates just does not jam at all with who Marc and I are.** So, I thanked her for the suggestion but explained how that could not work for us.
I have noticed, however, that I am far from alone on this debate. Forum board after forum has brides talking about going plastic.*** Then again, many boards are slamming plastic.
Paper is getting slammed, too.
Enter Bambu Veneerware, made of 100% organically-grown bamboo. The products look chic enough, and I found Pink Argyle and Kirstin Endemann talking up the products.
I am thus torn between renting dinnerware, buying cute mismatch dinnerware I have to wash myself after the reception, or buying this Bambu Veneerware which is still stylish while being super easy to clean up after (plates only, not the bamboo utensils) and says it biodegrades in less than six months. Hmmm…
I really dug this post by Apartment Therapy where Kristen Lubbe debates this exact issue when it comes to hosting parties. I dig the honesty of questioning which to do, and where we (as environmentalist and social-conscious humans) should allow ourselves some forgiveness for accepting a little convenience over moral high-ground. But check out the tremendous slew of comments afterward, many bashing the author for not taking the route of renting or buying new dishes.****
So, suggestions? Feelings why you lean one way or another? Or what you would never do?
Let it fly… I have stuff to decide. And you know you would feel gratified and proven right if your comment is what sways my decision. 
Sustainably yours, Ashley Sue
*Who am I kidding?! I love this challenge! Nine and a half months left to figure it all out!
**Except plastic plates are cheap. Marc and I are cheap. :/ Cost, however, is not enough of a jam for us to forsake our ethics.
***I’m a honking big snob anyhow and just think plastic is tacky. I would avoid it however I could.
****Commenter Oneformybaby at November 23, 2009 11:25 pm really expresses my feelings regarding this Apartment Therapy post and the commenters with “i totally understand about the need to preserve our environment but why dont we stop attacking each other for trying to make our lives just a little less stressful and start putting our attention to where it really can make a difference. Its like telling someone they are horrible people for eating fast food once in a while! Sometimes, you just need a break!”
Thank you for mentioning & enjoying my article on biodegradable plates. I was SHOCKED by the things readers had to say, I didn’t expect that at all.
I think the Bamboo is a great option. If you rent dishes, it could be the same argument- the amount of water that is used to wash those each time they’re rented is crazy.
Good luck!
Oh I know! I was shocked by a lot of the responses too. In my opinion, it is this exact “Are you green ENOUGH?” attitude that actually turns people away from understanding more and living more consciously at all.
You had a really great, really well-rounded, grounded perspective and honest approach. I dig it.
So thank YOU for writing what I was weighing myself.
Cheers, in each of the decisions you make!
One more observation here too – keep in mind that catering companies sometimes provide the plates included in the price or for a little bit extra. Weigh the costs of their provision versus your purchase also keeping in mind that if you purchase, then you need to consider: the time to make the actual purchase yourself, storage, washing the items (if necessary), clean up in general, etc.
BUT, if you must purchase, I too like the Bamboo idea for the bio-degradable material that it is and the cuteness of the idea. Bamboo = so you!
One more thought, on your wedding day, you will want to spend it just enjoying the day and not be concerned with the smaller details that easily could’ve been handled by another party. Speaking from experience here.
Just my .02.
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