Around this time of year, we hear a lot about the newest trends in gift-giving, the latest thing you must give your sweetheart to show your appreciation come February 14. In 2018, instead of breaking the bank and possibly giving your valentine something that’s less than kind to the environment at large, consider a homemade offering that’s personal and takes it easy on our planet. The staff here at Carolina Fibre found a few that are simple enough to do in a pinch, but easily customized to fit your special someone, whoever he or she may be.
Appeal to the Sweet Tooth
Whether it’s chocolate, butterscotch, or something with a little saltiness to the sweet, everyone has a favorite candy. Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to become a master chocolatier… or to at least borrow a secret or two. And by making your own sweet treats, you can be sure of exactly where the ingredients came from and how they were sourced.
Dinner for Two
When you shop local, you help reduce the carbon footprint left by shipping and transporting the items that make up a delicious meal. Treat your valentine to a home-cooked meal in your very own kitchen, and the environment will get to enjoy the night in, too!
Custom Arrangement
Flowers never go out of style, and they’re easy on the atmosphere, too! Find a locally operated flower shop and have all your sweetheart’s favorites put together, or go on a scouting mission and arrange them all yourself. Either way, both your significant other and the ozone layer thank you.
Preserving the Memories
In the digital age, picture frames may not be the first gift idea to come to mind. But, with a little creativity and a great snapshot, you can reminisce over first dates, weddings, or any other memorable occasion. Your local craft supply store will have plenty of environmentally friendly pieces to add to a basic wood or plastic frame, and your present this year can truly be one-of-a-kind!
Creating Ambience
Sometimes, all a nice dinner needs is a touch of candlelight. Luckily, you can make your own in a few easy steps, and with ingredients that don’t take a toll on the planet to obtain or use. Do a little digging to find out your valentine’s favorite scents, and add some mood lighting to your evenings in!
Roses are Red…
When all else fails, you can never go wrong with a homemade card. Possible materials range from recycled cardstock and eco-friendly markers to something with a bit more pizzazz. The main thing to remember is to make it personal, and your date is bound to appreciate it – almost as much as the planet will!
These are just a few environmentally friendly ideas we’ve come up with for the upcoming holiday, but you can show your appreciation for a loved one or for the earth all year long! Stay tuned to our blog for tips and updates to come, or contact us to get a greener program started at your place of business.
