Would you have thought that the beautiful tableware by Mariposa is made of recycled aluminum? I didn’t until I noticed the display at NYIGF (New York International Gift Fair) last week that gave it away. At first glance the tableware with the light-blue gift boxes reminded me of Tiffany’s silverware. But then I learned that all those great bowls, plates, and trays were handcrafted from 100% recycled sandcast aluminum in Mexico. How cool is that? High-end looking tableware that’s gentle on the environment and your budget. Mariposa’s primary production facility is based in a sustainable industrial park certified by the Mexican federal government. It ensures that the facility uses eco-friendly production processes and is committed to environmental stewardship. According to The Aluminum Association recycling scrap aluminum uses only 5% of the energy needed to make new aluminum. Natural resources are conserved and less waste ends up in landfills.
Mariposa was founded almost three decades ago in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts. The company started out with recycled glassware made from soft drink bottles. Since then it expanded its recycled material repertoire. As much I liked the newly introduced Glimmer Collection at NYIGF, it was the Lumiere tea lights that caught my eye. The charming tea lights made from recycled aluminum come in Seat Turtle, Starfish, Peony and Pearled Wavy designs. They make thoughtful “thank you” gifts for members of a bridal party or other people in your life that helped you get there. As for wedding gifts, there are several trays handcrafted from 100% recycled aluminum that are already engraved like “The Happily Ever After” platter. If you want to be more creative you can also choose to get recycled trays from the String of Pearls or Sueño collection custom engraved with a couple’s monogram. Another favorite of mine are the Sueño Interlaced Salad Servers made of slightly textured, beaded and recycled aluminum. The interlaced handles symbolize a union in an elegant way. They not only make a statement about a couple’s commitment to each other but also to the environment.