Photo by:
Dusty PhotosShow friends and family that living an environmentally responsible lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean going without by going green on your big day. It’s a great way to make your wedding unique and memorable and make a statement at the same time. Here are ten sensible tips to help you save the earth and your money too:
1. Let mother nature be your decorator :: an outdoor setting will infuse the whole event with a lush, natural beauty and require less decorating on your part too! You will use less electricity and create unbeatable lighting for your photographs. If you are concerned about weather conditions, choose a venue that offers indoor facilities incase of rain or consider renting a tent to ensure that your guests stay dry and cozy.
2. Simple & elegant invitations :: no need for multiple sheets of paper with tissue between each - consider using a single sheet of recycled paper or cardstock for your invitations and have guests RSVP by email.
3. Go local :: by buying your food and flowers from local vendors, you not only help support your community, but you also save a large amount of fuel in the process.
4. Recycled & antique rings :: vintage rings, whether a family heirloom or a great find at an antique store, will ensure that your ring is as unique as you are. If you just can’t find “the one”, you can always have old gold melted down and refashioned into your own design.
5. Vintage dresses & sustainable fabrics :: when looking for that perfect dress, consider a stylish secondhand find or look for something you could wear again. Your bridesmaids will also thank you if you let them do the same.
6. Do your guests a favor :: thank your guests by giving them a favor that won’t end up in the trash at the end of the night. Think about favors like wildflower seeds, bulbs or potted, or a photograph from the wedding. Use leaves or other natural objects as place cards.
7. Cleanup :: avoid adding to landfills by using as few disposable items as possible. Consider renting white plates for a sophisticated look or go for a chic eclectic look by mixing and matching thrift store plates and dishes (and donating them back when you're done of course!). You can also request that the staff separate any recyclable materials that could otherwise end up in the trash.
8. Ask for only what you need :: keep your storage closets from getting packed by asking for less. Give guests the option to donate to a favorite charity or cause instead of buying you a gift you won’t use. You can also request for guests to put their money together towards one big purchase. It will save you space, time and the inconvenience of returning unwanted items.
9. Location :: choose a setting that's convenient to the majority of your guests to minimize travel impacts. Having the ceremony and the reception at the same place or providing eco-friendly transportation between them is also a big help.
10. Get involved :: The more of yourself you put into each detail, the more personal your wedding celebration feels. Know exactly how many guests you are buying for to avoid overbuying supplies. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors such as caterers & florists what they are doing with your extra materials. You can also skip the middleman all together by making handmade decorations, gifts and invitations that are sure to be cherished by the recipient.
