Valentine’s Day: lots of folks love it while others cannot stand the fact that this holiday exists on our calendar. Either way, if you’re a man and you hate it, you’ll still fall victim to that lovely lady you’ll be sharing the day with, so here are some tips on how to keep it eco-friendly… The following goes for you too ladies!
1. Buy Her Antique Jewelry
If you’re thinking of buying your sweetheart a pretty new necklace or earrings this February 14th, why not take a look around your local antique store first. This is a great way to reuse, reduce and recycle, as long as the piece fits her style. She’ll love the thoughtfulness and will be grateful that she’s with a guy who cares about something greater than himself.
2. Purchase Cards Made with Recycled Paper
Hallmark finally got on board with the rest of us, well, sort of. Look for their Shoebox line of funny greetings, those are made with 20% recycled content. The rest of their Valentine’s Day cards are hit or miss. If you prefer creating your own greeting cards, go ahead and buy cardstock made from recycled content. Or better yet, skip the cards altogether and read each other something from your heart, no paper necessary.
Shop these links for green card making products:
http://www.kandcompany.com/shop/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=741
http://www.kandcompany.com/shop/pc/viewContent.asp?idpage=93
http://www.creatively-green.com
3. Wrap Wisely or Get Creative
Unless you already own paper to wrap that antique necklace, make sure you buy recycled gift wrap. Hallmark carries a small selection in their stores. Look for paper printed with soy based inks as well. Check out eartheasy.com/shop/gifts for ideas. Or, better yet, make a statement and wrap your gift in newspaper with a pretty red or pink bow (or raffia), which are both fully recyclable. Toss the paper back in with the others you’ll be bringing to the curb and you can reuse the bow for next time!
4. Take an Eco-Getaway
If you’re planning a romantic getaway, try making it an eco-friendly one while you’re at it. And remember, if it’s a short distance, either drive or take the train, no planes!
Search www.travelocity.com/TravelForGood for a list of environmentally responsible hotels.
5. Choose a Sustainable Restaurant
Visit dinegreen.com to check out certified sustainable restaurants in your area. If nothing pops up close by and you have your heart set on a romantic night out, make sure to go local and not chain. This will support your local economy and allow you to enjoy that authentic Italian place you keep meaning to try.
6. Opt for a Romantic Night In
If you prefer to avoid the long waits for a table on Valentine’s Day, you and your honey can prepare a special dinner for two right in your own backyard – or kitchen, rather. And you won’t have any of those horrible non-biodegradable to-go containers filling up your trash the following day either. Be sure to use organic, local ingredients, if possible (including the wine you’ll be drinking, check out the local varieties at your liquor store). Set up a picnic on your living room floor, get dressed up, surround yourself with candlelight (this will also serve as a barrier between your dog’s nose and your plate), put on your favorite tunes and enjoy… each other!