There is an undeniable glow in the air as the leaves shed their green to reveal their vibrant golden hues. As this change ushers in cooler temps, one cannot help but feel the tingling of anticipation for the season's festivities and time spent with friends and loved ones. Here in Durango, we are lucky to have such proximity to the natural beauty surrounding us. Hosting a gathering that highlights some of those natural elements – while being mindful of protecting this special place we call ‘home’ – is important to us.
Claire Attkisson, owner of Durango Sustainable Goods, sat down with us to discuss the importance of sustainability and how she provides better access to sustainable products in our community. She also shared some guidance on hosting a sustainable fall gathering to remember.
Claire founded Durango Sustainable Goods with a mission to bring a ‘next gen’ shopping experience to the community. Next-gen products are created from leading-edge sustainable materials like apple leather, cork (harvested without harming the tree), recycled glass, and other sustainable materials. Nixing fast-fashion and toxic plastics in favor of these creatively sustainable materials makes the items in Claire’s store good for people and the planet.
With a brick-and-mortar storefront and a beautiful website, Claire has created an accessible and enjoyable experience for shoppers to find sustainable gifts, beauty products, lifestyle, and home goods.
As a firm believer in the necessity of a thriving local economy, Claire takes great pride in supporting local artisans and goods producers. In her shop, you can find unique products from over twenty artists, farmers, florists, and entrepreneurs in Durango and our neighboring communities. She lovingly says, “We are Durango’s mini-Amazon of sustainable goods.”
No stranger to hosting memorable events, Claire loves bringing the community together to learn about sustainability and interact with local creators. From a variety of fun, sustainable DIY workshops to mocktails on the patio and tasty goodies from co-located Omni Cafe, there is always something fun and interactive to check out at Durango Sustainable Goods.
Here is Claire's step-by-step guide to hosting your own fall festivity, with next-gen products you can purchase in-store or on her website.
Bring in Color
When planning your special gathering, incorporate seasonal colors into the mix. Fall has many colors to inspire your menu, table setting, and decor. Surprise your guests with splashes of color. Take inspiration from the crisp blue skies and vibrant yellow aspens.
(M)ocktail Hour
Add a booze-free option at your event with a seasonal mocktail to get guests in an autumnal mood. You can find products such as a Mexican Citrus Juicer and Whiskey Stones in-store and online. These sustainably sourced products will elevate your drink creations and make you look like a pro.
Dinner
Feature a seasonal main dish and have guests bring an appetizer or a dish to share. The key to a zero-waste dinner party is to have a manageable amount of food. Compost any scraps or send guests home with leftovers. *Tip: Make some of the cooking a shared experience for guests to help break the ice.
Table Setting and Decor
Repurpose thrift store purchases or shop Durango Sustainable Goods’ line of sustainable glassware for centerpieces and fun accents. Handcrafted plates from a local ceramic artist featured in Claire’s store make for fascinating conversation starters and give your table a unique flair.
Claire also suggests letting nature inspire your decor and featuring dried flowers from a local florist like Mountain Belle Flower Farm or some from your garden. Local apples incorporated into your tablescape will add to the fall ambiance. Instead of party favors, invite guests to take a centerpiece home or give them a small house plant from Botanical Concepts.
Like what you see? All items pictured can be found at Durango Sustainable Goods, located next door to the Durango Herald and across the street from Buckley Park. Each item seen here contains sustainable, high-quality materials. You can also shop online at www.durangosustainablegoods.com and check out the events page for upcoming workshops and other social events.