Honestly? They’d think you care deeply about them—and the planet we all share. You’d be doing them a meaningful favor by thanking them with practical gifts crafted from highly sustainable bamboo, one of the most resilient—and symbolic—materials available. Let’s explore the beauty of bamboo!
- Bamboo is found all over the world in varied climates
- Bamboo has a higher tensile strength than many alloys of steel
- Structures built of bamboo have withstood 9.0 magnitude earthquakes
- Bamboo can be transformed into buildings, fabric and clothing, food, medicine, musical instruments, charcoal, wedding favors and more
- Bamboo is the fastest-growing plant on the planet (some species have actually been measured to grow more than four feet in 24 hours)
- Some believe that if bamboo were planted on a mass basis, it could completely reverse the effects of global warming in just 6 years, and provide a renewable source of food, building material, and erosion prevention
Strong in Symbolism, Too!
Many Asian cultures revere bamboo for its distinctive qualities, so the plant’s symbolism varies from country to country. I compiled bamboo symbolism from various Asian cultures, and I’m sure you can find one or two special blessings you’d not only like to impart to your guests, but also bestow on you and your groom as you launch your new life together:
- Longevity
- Good Luck
- Grace
- Friendship
- Simplicity
- Humility
- The Spirit of Summer
- In Chinese philosophy, the straight stem of bamboo symbolizes the path towards enlightenment, and the segments of the stem are the “steps” along the way
Bamboo-tiful Favors!
Wow! Paving the way to the path towards enlightenment for family and friends? Now that’s a “thank you” gift! The exceptionally enlightened designers here at Kate Aspen have created a number of graceful ways to do just that. My three favorites are the Natural Bamboo Coasters, the “Breezy Bamboo” Photo Frame and, as a huge fan of cheese, I highly recommend the “Tastefully Yours” Bamboo Cheese Board and Spreader!
One more interesting tidbit about bamboo before I go—it’s actually a grass. Yes! Giant bamboo is the largest member of the grass family. I can’t even begin to imagine the size of the mower!
Happy Planning!
