Green and Gorgeous! Weddings are special occasions that require months of planning, and among the many things to consider is the environmental impact of your big day. From the invitations and decorations to the food and transportation, there are so many ways you can incorporate sustainable practices into your wedding. Here are some eco-friendly wedding tips that will make your big day green and gorgeous.
Celebrate Love and Nature: 10 Eco-Friendly Wedding Tips
1. Go digital with your invitations
One of the easiest in today’s digital age! Instead of using paper invitations, consider sending e-invites or creating a wedding website with all the necessary information. This not only saves paper, but it also makes it easier for guests to RSVP and stay updated on any changes.
2. Choose a green venue
Select a venue that is eco-friendly and has sustainable practices in place. This could mean a venue with solar panels, a garden or one that sources local produce for their catering. Some folks even consider historic locations eco-friendly since they don’t contribute to the need for building materials and other associated consumption related to construction.
3. Choose sustainable food options
Consider using a caterer that uses locally sourced, organic, and seasonal produce. You can also choose a vegan or vegetarian menu, which has a lower carbon footprint than meat-based meals. Vegan farm to table catering options are the ultimate eco-friendly green wedding choice!
Say “I Do” to Sustainability
4. Use recycled or biodegradable decorations
Use natural, biodegradable, and recyclable decor items such as flower arrangements, potted plants, reusable table settings made from eco-friendly materials, and metal or bamboo utensils. Your florist can help you with ideas to repurpose the statement designs from the ceremony to the reception.
5. Choose ethically sourced wedding bands
Select rings that are ethically produced, meaning they are made from recycled or conflict-free materials. Lab made diamonds are exactly the same as earth made diamonds. Not only are they a fraction of the cost, thay are guaranteed to be conflict-free with no damage to people of the environment.
6. Donate leftover food
Find a local charity that can accept your leftover food and donate it to those in need. RSVP no shows are far more common today than before COVID. It’s pretty common for the guest count to change in the month leading up to the wedding. Your caterer may end up with too much food if your changes come after their cut off. Ask them for recommendations for charitable donation. Or, you and your partner could ask for them to be boxed up and donate them directly to the less fortunate as your first act of charity together.
7. Opt for eco-friendly transportation
Consider using bicycles, scooters, pedicabs, or electric vehicles to transport the wedding party and guests. Alternatively, encourage guests to carpool or arrange for a shuttle from their lodging to the venue. One vehicle for 30 people is a lot more eco-friendly than 15 separate ones!
8. Choose an eco-friendly wedding dress
Select a dress made from sustainable or recycled materials. You can also choose to wear something you already own or rent a dress. Or, how about a non-traditional gown that you can wear again on your anniversary? You can’t do that with a big ole wedding gown!
9. Choose a sustainable honeymoon destination
Choose a place that is eco-friendly and sustainable, such as a national park or an eco-lodge. Many resorts are advertising the steps they’ve taken to reduce their impact on the environment. These are the ones you’re looking for. They are more likely to be vegan friendly or better yet, fully vegan.
10. Create a zero-waste wedding
Create a zero-waste wedding by avoiding single-use items, such as plastic straws or cups, and choose reusable options instead. You can also compost any waste to minimize the impact on the environment.
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, so why not make it green and gorgeous? By incorporating these eco-friendly wedding tips, you can reduce your environmental impact and celebrate your love for each other and the planet.