Incorporating sustainability with style…
When you think about the set up and pack-down of an event, glamour probably isn’t the first idea that comes to mind, right? And incorporating sustainability into your event planning might sound like hard work, but it doesn’t have to be!
If you’ve ever stayed at Sunnymead Hotel, you know we take sustainability seriously and are committed to supporting local businesses. Plus, we’ve proven that sustainability can still look stylish! Located in Aireys Inlet, we're committed to reducing our impact on the beautiful Great Ocean Road that we call home. Here are just a few ways we’ve woven sustainability into our hotel design and daily operations…
· In-room recycling bins including glass, paper, plastic, and food scraps
· Nespresso pod capsule recycling program
· Hand soap donation program
· Reusable + refillable local bathroom amenities from The Herbalist Bells Beach
· Recycled toilet paper from B-Corp certified business Who Gives A Crap
· Local landscaping design by Great Ocean Gardens
Why are we telling you this? By choosing Sunnymead as your event venue, you’re not only reducing your environmental impact, but also supporting local businesses and initiatives that are helping to protect the planet. Now, let’s dive into your event planning…
Be single-use free
Whether your event is poolside at Sunnies Bar or indoors at Santara Restaurant, either way we’re plastic-free! For outdoor events, we offer reusable pool-safe drinkware at Sunnies Bar, saving you the hassle of sourcing single-use cups. And it means clean-up is easy, we do it for you!
When it comes to floral displays, we’ve got you covered with two fantastic local suppliers that will ensure you stay on budget and minimise waste. If you love beautiful locally-sourced natives, Joycelyn at A Flourish of Flowers is your go-to. For something a little bolder and reusable (in the coolest way), Delaney from Big Blooms Co. creates floral installations that match our Sunnymead style and will make your event truly pop! Want to see them in action? We’ve got all the inspo you need here. And don’t forget biodegradable confetti to top it off – you’ll have the most stylish special day, all while ticking the sustainability box!
Support the locals
Visiting from out of town? Love that! Save on travel costs and contribute to the local economy by sourcing vendors from our area. We’re always more than happy to help with an awesome list of local suppliers who are ready to bring your vision to life! Whether you’re looking for a photographer, videographer, florist, event stylist, hair + makeup artist, sound systems, or entertainment, we’ve got the perfect recommendations to match your vibe!
Step out in sustainable style
Who doesn’t love wearing something new for a special event?! For destination events, consider embracing the circular fashion movement – it’s a stylish and budget-friendly way to make a statement while reducing your environmental footprint. Encourage your guests to explore local outfit-hiring boutiques rather than buying new, and you’ll help create a more sustainable event while saving on both cash and suitcase space!
Travel together
One simple but effective way to make your event more sustainable is by encouraging your guests to travel together. Carpooling or better still – using our kombi – not only reduces individual carbon footprints but also helps to ease parking and transportation issues at the venue. If you’re hosting a destination event, consider coordinating group transport for your guests and adding some fun with our classic VW kombi! Plus, it's a great opportunity for guests to mingle and get some share-worthy content (for example, your bridal party) before the event even begins!
Paperless invites (go digital)
Say goodbye to paper invites and RSVPs! Going digital is an eco-friendly way to invite your guests and manage event details, from invitations to reminders. With platforms like email and online RSVP services, you can reduce paper waste and help save trees, while still delivering a stylish and personal invitation. Digital invites also allow for easy customisation, so you can create something truly unique without compromising on the aesthetics of your event. And let’s not forget sending invites digitally means no postage costs, which is a win for both the environment and your budget. It’s a modern, sustainable choice that still feels personal and thoughtful. For your other event stationery like menus – we’re always happy to design them for your unique theme!
Take advantage of styling options
When it comes to event décor, Sunnymead offers a variety of styling options. Rather than bringing in single-use décor items that may end up in a landfill, we encourage our guests to make the most of the stunning surroundings and unique features we already have in place. From the gorgeous gardens to our retro design elements, there’s so much here that can be used to create an unforgettable atmosphere without adding to waste. We also offer curated styling packages, ensuring your event is beautiful, memorable, and sustainable. By using what our venue already has, you’ll not only reduce waste but also help support our commitment to sustainability.
Planning a sustainable event doesn't have to be complicated or compromise style – at Sunnymead Hotel, we make it easy to host a sustainable celebration while still offering all the charm you’d expect from a boutique hotel. From supporting local businesses, reducing single-use waste, embracing sustainable fashion to travel options, we’ve thought of everything to help you minimise your environmental footprint and create a truly unique event. Ready to get event planning? Reach out to us and our Event Coordinator will help you create an unforgettable experience that’s as good for the planet as it is for your guests! You can also view our Parties + Events info here!