Disposable Dining

Sometimes when I get home, I just don't feel like cooking. I feel like doing dishes even less. And when it's a family affair (with my family, picture lots of people, no order, and tons of food), the dishes seem endless but being the perfectionist that I am, I can't bring myself to use disposable dishes. For one, they're generally not that nice - shiny plastic or paper with little flowers...great for a bbq, not so great for chic al fresco dining. And then, there's the whole issue of waste. And though the disposable dish companies figure out that making them thicker, nicer, better - eco-friendly doesn't seem to be high on their list. Leave it to an economist and businessman to innovate. Michael Dwork, a Columbia grad (both undergrad and MBA) got his inspiration while in India, after seeing a woman take a leaf, press it in what looked like a waffle iron, and serve food from it. And with that VerTerra was born. The company embodies the ideals of environmental consciousness. The plates are made from fallen leaves and water. They're biodegradable and compostable, heat resistant (microwavable & oven safe if you follow the directions), non-toxic, and just plain fantastic. They are simple and organic, not just in material, but in style. I love the square plates, wide bowls, and soft edges. They're neutral enough to make your food look striking, simple enough to be easy to use and dispose of, and stylish enough to make you want to use them over and over again! They beat out the competition in style AND substance. Check out the bowls, plates and trays below.

And they even come in basic packaging to keep the waste down. The company is all about accountability and responsibility. How refreshing.