Photo: Paper Case Studio | Eco Lovely Etsy
In honor of Earth Day on April 22nd, we have decided to dedicate this blog to exploring different ways to host an eco-friendly wedding. An eco- friendly wedding, also called a green or sustainable wedding, is described as “a celebration where the couple tries to reduce the event’s effect on the environment” as stated in brides.com.
Just because you’re hosting a green wedding, doesn’t necessarily mean that your wedding will lack important elements or will be more difficult to plan. There are little things you can do to make a BIG difference. Below is a list of popular ideas!
Wedding Rings & Dresses
Ethically Sourced Diamonds - When searching for a ring or wedding band, track the origins of the diamond. Feel free to ask the jeweler if their diamonds are conflict free.
Estate Jewelry - Consider checking out antique stores or estate sales for one-of-a-kind pieces.
Vintage Dresses- Resale shops are an excellent place to find vintage wedding gowns. Not only will it help save money, but you will be repurposing a dress.
Second Hand- Brides have opted to sell their dresses, shoes, and even accessories online after their weddings have ended. Visit sites like oncewed.com to connect with former brides selling their items.
Save the Date & Invitations
Paperless Invitations - If you want to completely do away with paper, online weddings invitations are a great alternative. Greenenvelope.com has all kinds of layouts that can be customized for your event.
Green Invitations - Don’t feel bad if you still want to send out traditional wedding invitations. Considering sending invitations that are printed on 100% recycled paper.
Planted Invitations- Create an invitation on biodegradable paper that can be planted and grown into wildflowers or herbs. What a fun way to give your guest the opportunity to use their green thumbs!
Gifts & Registry
Charity Donations - Ask guest to donate to your favorite charity in honor of your wedding. For example, the Arbor Day Foundation is a charity that plants trees.
Local Registries - If you do opt for a traditional registry, consider them at local businesses. Supporting and shopping local is always a great way to help the environment.
Florals
Flowers in Season - Flowers are a staple decor item for any wedding. When you meet with your florist, ask about flowers that will be in season during your wedding, as well as flowers that are locally grown.
Donating Flowers - At the end of a wedding, it’s not uncommon to see flowers being thrown out. To avoid this waste, consider donating them to a hospital or nursing home.
Faux Flowers - It may be hard to believe, but faux flowers have come a long way! There are even companies that specialize in creating faux bouquets, table arrangements, and backdrops.
Décor & Rentals
Renting Items - Anything that is single use is never good for the environment. Renting items such as chinaware, napkins, linens, glassware, and utensils will help eliminate unnecessary waste.
Donate or Sell - Once your special day has come to an end, you can donate or sell any wedding day items you no longer want. On FB you can join a bridal group and list the items you want to sell. Another option is donating them to Goodwill or local resale shop.
Favor & Grand Exit
Edible Favors - One of the best favors you can give your guests is something edible! Not only is it not wasteful, but it can serve as a late-night snack when your guest leave. Some couples are even opting to not have a favor.
Biodegradable Grand Exit- The party is almost over, but there is one last moment to capture, the Grand Exit. Couple have become creative wits items, but things like rice and confetti aren’t good for the environment. As an alternative, use rose petals or a mix of colorful flowers.
Even if you don't check off every item from this list, any amount of intentional planning for the environment makes a difference. Let's take care of beautiful mother earth together!
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