Event planning is changing. More people want their celebrations to be kinder to the planet. One way to do this is by using living plants as decorations. Renting plants for events is becoming popular because it's both beautiful and good for the environment.

This article will explore why hiring plants is a smart choice for eco-conscious event planners and how to do it effectively.

Why Choose Plants for Event Décor?

Plants bring life to any space. They add color, texture, and a natural feel that artificial decorations can't match. But the benefits go beyond looks:

1. Improved Air Quality

Plants act as natural air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making the air fresher for event guests. Some plants even filter out harmful chemicals from the air.

2. Stress Reduction

Being around greenery can help people feel calm and relaxed. This creates a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone at the event.

3. Versatility

From small potted herbs to large trees, plants come in all shapes and sizes. This variety makes it easy to find the right green touches for any event theme or venue.

4. Noise Reduction

Plants can absorb sound, helping to create a more pleasant acoustic environment. This is especially useful in large, echoing spaces.

The Environmental Impact of Hiring Plants

Renting plants from your trusted options for plant hires instead of buying new decorations for each event has several eco-friendly advantages:

Reduced Waste

After an event, rented plants go back to the supplier. They're not thrown away like many single-use decorations. This cuts down on the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Growing and transporting new decorations for every event uses a lot of energy. Reusing plants across multiple events is more efficient and produces less greenhouse gas.

Support for Local Businesses

Many plant rental companies are small, local businesses. Choosing them over big decoration suppliers helps support the local economy and reduces transportation emissions.

Biodiversity Promotion

Plant rental companies often grow a wide variety of species. This helps maintain plant diversity, which is crucial for healthy ecosystems.

How to Choose the Right Plants for Your Event

Selecting plants for an event involves more than just picking what looks pretty. Here are some factors to consider:

Event Theme and Venue

The plants should complement the overall look and feel of the event. For a formal gala, elegant orchids or tall palms might work well. For a rustic outdoor wedding, wildflowers and herbs could be perfect.

Lighting Conditions

Some plants thrive in bright light, while others prefer shade. Make sure to choose plants that will be happy in the lighting conditions of your venue.

Temperature and Climate

If your event is outdoors or in a space with variable temperatures, pick plants that can handle those conditions. Succulents are great for warm, dry environments, while ferns prefer cooler, humid spots.

Allergies and Sensitivities

Be mindful of plants that might cause allergic reactions in some guests. Avoid strongly scented flowers if you're unsure about attendees' sensitivities.

Size and Scale

Consider the size of your venue when choosing plants. Large spaces might need bigger plants or trees to make an impact, while smaller venues could be overwhelmed by too much greenery.

Tips for Working with Plant Rental Companies

Once you've decided to hire plants for your event, follow these tips to ensure a smooth process:

Plan Ahead

Book your plants early, especially for popular event dates. This gives you the best selection and allows time for any special requests.

Discuss Delivery and Setup

Talk to the rental company about when and how the plants will be delivered. Some companies offer setup services, which can save you time and stress.

Ask About Care Instructions

Even though the plants are temporary, they still need care. Get clear instructions on watering and any other maintenance needed during the event.

Consider Accessories

Many plant rental companies also offer decorative pots, stands, or lights. These can enhance the overall look of your plant displays.

Have a Backup Plan

Sometimes, plants can get damaged in transport or don't look as expected. Ask the rental company about their policy for replacements or substitutions.

Creative Ways to Incorporate Plants into Your Event

Plants can do more than just sit in the corner. Here are some innovative ideas for using hired plants:

Living Walls

Create stunning backdrops for photos or stage areas using vertical plant arrangements.

Centerpieces

Use small potted plants or herb gardens as table centerpieces. Guests might even be able to take them home as favors.

outdoor wood pergola and curtains wiht lights and plants

Aisle Markers

Line walkways or aisles with potted plants for a natural, elegant look.

Room Dividers

Large plants or trees can help define spaces within a larger venue.

Themed Displays

Group plants to create specific environments, like a tropical oasis or an English garden.

Overcoming Common Concerns About Hiring Plants

Some event planners might hesitate to use live plants. Here's how to address common worries:

Maintenance Worries

Most rental plants are chosen for their hardiness and low maintenance needs. Plus, rental companies often provide care services for longer events.

Cost Concerns

While hiring plants might seem expensive upfront, it can be cost-effective when you consider the impact and reusability compared to buying decorations.

Allergies and Pests

Reputable plant rental companies take great care to ensure their plants are pest-free and low-allergy. They can also recommend plants that are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

The Future of Green Event Planning

As people become more environmentally conscious, the trend of using living plants for event décor is likely to grow. This shift towards sustainable practices in event planning goes beyond just decorations. It includes choosing eco-friendly venues, using digital invitations, and serving locally sourced food.

By embracing these green practices, event planners can create memorable experiences that are both beautiful and kind to the planet. Hiring plants for décor is a simple yet effective step in this direction.

Conclusion

Hiring plants for event décor is a smart choice for eco-conscious planners. It offers a way to create stunning, living decorations while minimizing environmental impact. From improving air quality to reducing waste, the benefits are clear. With careful planning and creativity, living plants can transform any event space into a green oasis. As the world moves towards more sustainable practices, plant rentals are set to become a key part of eco-friendly event planning.

About the author:

Sarah Green is an experienced event planner and sustainability consultant based in Portland, Oregon. With over a decade in the industry, she specializes in creating eco-friendly events that don't compromise on style or impact.

You may also be interested in…

Featured

Eco-Friendly Event Planning: Hiring Plants for Sustainable Décor

Designing an Outdoor Space on a Budget: Make Every Dollar Count

Outdoor spaces are increasingly seen as a luxury and an extension of our homes. For many, they are an oasis of relaxation, a place for family gatherings, and a quiet corner to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Yet designing an ideal outdoor space can seem costly and overwhelming. Fear not! This post will explore proven strategies and tips for achieving that dream outdoor space without breaking the bank. You'll learn that with some creativity, even home upgrades don't have to be extravagant to be effective.

Types of Air Plants for Your Home

Guest post by Alexandria Heinz

Air plants are the latest trend in decor, but what are they? If you’ve ever been curious about these tiny, green succulent-like plants, you’ve come to the right place! Air plants, also known by their scientific name Tillandsias, are easily identifiable by their small structure and lack of roots. Similar to most plants, air plants do need a combination of air and water to survive, but unlike most plants, they don’t require soil to grow.

Epiphytes (plants that don’t need soil to grow) can absorb nutrients through their leaves rather than roots. This makes them a popular choice in home decor. They do need to be watered about once a week, but this is done by misting them, which leaves less of a mess in the home.

In their natural state, air plants are found on trees and shrubs. They are common in the warm climates of the southern United States, Central America, and South America. Many of these tropical plants produce a bright neon flower. To help you become familiar with air plants, we’ll show you 5 distinctive types that are unique in shape and color.