Summer is the season of gathering. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a neighborhood potluck, or a beach picnic, the best moments of the season are often the simplest. At Matter, we believe hosting should feel easy. The focus should be on creating memorable experiences, not worrying about the cleanup afterward. In this blog, we'll go over a few simple summer swaps that help streamline entertaining while supporting a more sustainable lifestyle. The best part? These small changes don't require sacrificing convenience. In fact, they often make hosting even easier.
Start with the Essentials
Every successful gathering starts with the basics. Having compostable plates, bowls, cups, and utensils on hand means you're always prepared, whether you're hosting a planned event or inviting friends over at the last minute. Matter's collection of compostable tableware is designed to handle everything from burgers fresh off the grill to summer salads, desserts, and cold drinks. Made from plants and natural fibers, Matter products are durable and heat-resistant. Instead of spending time washing stacks of dishes, you can focus on what matters most.
Make Cleanup Part of the Plan
The reality of hosting is that cleanup starts long before the last guest leaves. Food scraps accumulate during prep. Serving areas need constant tidying. Leftovers need a place to go. By planning for cleanup from the beginning, you can make the entire hosting experience feel more seamless. That's where Matter's compostable food scrap bags come in. Designed to be durable, leak-resistant, and suitable for collecting food waste throughout meal preparation, they're an easy addition to any kitchen routine. After the meal, Matter's compostable waste bags help make post-party cleanup quick and convenient, allowing you to spend less time managing waste and more time connecting with guests.
Think Beyond the Table
Hosting doesn't end when the meal is over. Matter's compostable food storage bags make it easy to keep food organized while extending the same thoughtful approach to sustainability beyond the dining table. It's a small swap, but one that helps carry your hosting values throughout the entire experience.
Why Composting Matters
When we think about reducing waste, food scraps are often overlooked. However, composting has been scientifically proven to have a meaningful impact. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), composting helps divert food scraps and other organic materials from landfills, where they can generate methane emissions. Compost also improves soil health, increases water retention, and helps return valuable nutrients to the earth. That's one reason we're passionate about creating products that support composting habits in everyday life. From food scrap bags that make collection easier to compostable products designed with end-of-life considerations in mind, we believe small changes can add up over time. If you’re interested in learning more about composting and where to begin, check out Matter’s composting guide located on our website.
Your Summer Hosting Checklist
Before your next gathering, make sure you have:
- Compostable bowls
- Compostable cups
- Compostable utensils
- Compostable food scrap bags
- Compostable waste bags
- Compostable plates
With a few simple essentials, hosting becomes less about managing messes and more about creating memorable moments.
The Matter Way to Host
Effortless hosting isn't about perfection. It's about creating space for connection. Hosting is all about sharing a meal outdoors, gathering friends around a table, and staying present instead of worrying about the dishes waiting in the sink. This summer, we're keeping things simple: less waste, less cleanup, and more time spent enjoying the moments that matter.