Skip to main content

back to blog home

Sustainability in Catering: How Simply Fresh Events is Making a Difference

At Simply Fresh Events, we believe that every event—no matter the size—can be both memorable and mindful. More than ever, our clients are asking how they can host beautiful celebrations while also minimizing their environmental footprint. We’re proud to say that sustainability isn’t just a trend for us—it’s a core value.

We’re constantly evolving our practices to support a greener future, and we’re proud to be recognized as a Certified Maryland Green Business—a distinction that reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility throughout every layer of our operations.

Here’s how we’re making eco-friendly choices in the catering world, one event at a time.

Local & Seasonal Menus

One of the simplest ways to reduce environmental impact is by sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally. We work with regional farmers and purveyors to feature fresh, in-season produce, proteins, and dairy. This not only supports the local economy but also cuts down on emissions from long-haul transportation.

Plus, seasonal menus just taste better—ripe tomatoes in summer, crisp apples in fall, and tender greens in spring. It’s a delicious way to honor the time and place of your event.

Composting & Recycling

Behind the scenes, we take waste management seriously. At many of our events, we coordinate composting of food scraps and recycling of bottles, cans, and cardboard. Our staff is trained in sustainable disposal practices, and we encourage venues and clients to join us in reducing landfill waste whenever possible.

Thoughtful Disposables

For events where reusable dishes aren’t feasible, we offer compostable and biodegradable plateware, cups, and utensils made from materials like bamboo, palm leaf, and sugarcane. We also encourage clients to skip single-use items altogether when practical—every little bit counts!

Cocktail hour photo, passed appetizers on a tray of prosciutto and melon

Donation Partners Making a Difference

Food should nourish, not go to waste. Simply Fresh Events is proud to partner with Nourishing Bethesda to donate surplus food and leftover event items to those who need them most. These partnerships allow us to extend the life and purpose of what we create, turning abundance into support for local families and communities.

Whether it’s prepared meals or gently used supplies, our goal is to make sure nothing goes to waste—and everything goes to good use.

Reusable & Rental Décor

While we’re known for our mouthwatering menus, we also care deeply about the full event experience—including the look and feel. Our coordination team helps clients select reusable rental décor and furniture rather than single-use items. This cuts down on waste and ensures a polished, cohesive event design.

Nicole Simensky Photography

A Greener Future, One Event at a Time

Sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s about making thoughtful, intentional choices that add up. From eco-conscious menu planning to waste-reduction efforts and meaningful community partnerships, we’re proud to be leading the way in sustainable catering.

If you’re planning an event and want it to be both stylish and environmentally responsible, we’d love to help.


Let’s plan your eco-friendly event together.
Contact us to learn more about our sustainable catering and event coordination options.

posted by: Jocelyn Barker in: Catering, Corporate Catering, Giving Back & The Community, Planning
You might also like: