A wedding without a confetti hedge is almost unthinkable. Rice grains even symbolize fertility, but may no longer be sprinkled, because birds can suffocate on them. Rose petals stain and glitter creates a mess. Bas and Eelkje from Alkmaar had their hands in their hair just before their big day, until they thought of making their own confetti from leaves. Their marriage not only produced children, but also a company.
The couple spent half a year trying to find the right leaves. They have cut, dried and checked how long they can be kept. Bas does not want to reveal which shrubs they use.
There are dozens of copies between sheds on an industrial estate. The leaves are harvested when they are large enough. After that, the young shoots get the chance to grow again and so it is very sustainable, explains Bas in the television program Pak An Groen.
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In the sheltered workshop in Schagen, the leaves are cut by hand from the branches by eight people. Then they are shredded and put into sprinkle trays and poppers.
Every summer it is very busy due to the many weddings and festivals. The North Holland product is distributed throughout Europe. “Don’t be surprised if you see our confetti on a square in Italy or on a beach in Ibiza,” says founder Bas Jongkind proudly.
Grab an Green
More and more North Hollanders are taking action to tackle climate change. Residents change their lifestyle, buy responsibly and insulate their homes. Entrepreneurs see opportunities and break new ground with sustainable products and services. You can see it on TV every Tuesday in the program Pak An Groen.
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