10 Ways to Make Your Wedding Eco-Friendly
It’s called your Big Day because it’s big on sentiment. But you don’t want to make a big impact on the environment. It’s never too early to start thinking about steps you can take to minimize waste. Small gestures add up and you’ll look back on your 30th anniversary, proud that you were part of the solution. Read on to learn ten ways you can make your wedding more eco-friendly this fall.
1. Benign Bands
You may not have ever considered the ethics of wedding rings. The fact is, an eco-friendly wedding can start with ring shopping. Many diamonds fund warlords and metal mining may cause serious environmental damage. Source your bands ethically. Laguna Pearl offers a wide range of pearl engagement rings from conflict-free zones.
2. Local Love
One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to hold the wedding locally. Alternatively, you can stage it wherever most of your guests live. Save fuel and stress by staying close to home. Double down on environmentalism by hiring local vendors to cater to your party.
3. Responsible Registry
Most of us already have more than enough stuff. As you register for gifts, be mindful of your needs, as well as the planet’s. Select recycled, repurposed, sustainable goods that do good for Mother Earth.
4. Shuttle Service
Providing transport for your guests not only uses less fuel but is also safer. Buses, vans, and even trolleys are all options here. Added bonus: out-of-town visitors have one less thing to worry about.
5. Vintage Value
Show your love for the planet and your family by using heirlooms. Mom’s wedding dress or grandma’s jewelry adds sentiment, style, and sustainability to your special day. Shop at flea markets and thrift stores for charming, authentic decor to further reduce your footprint.
6. Rent Reusables
Non-disposable items like china, utensils, and napkins can all be rented. Cleaning is often included in the price, making this eco-conscious option a no-brainer.
7. Go Green
Your invitations, programs, menus, and thank-you cards don’t have to actually be green, but they should be recycled. Whenever possible, save a piece of paper and post information on your wedding website.
8. Double-Duty Décor
Small potted plants that serve as seating cards guide guests to the table and jazz it up at the same time. Centerpieces can also serve as a lovely memento of your special day.
9. Pass Along the Pretty
Don’t toss those gorgeous floral displays; donate them. Nursing homes and hospitals will gladly take unneeded flowers off your hands. Do the same with your leftover food. Contact a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen to find out about donations.
10. Shared Spirit
Spread the love around on your special day. Buy favors and other products from charitable organizations, such as saplings from the Arbor Day Foundation. Alternatives to favors include making a donation in your guests’ names. Make sure to view our recent blog post on wedding favors that won’t go to waste.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Photographer
If having an eco-friendly wedding is essential to you and your partner, let us be your professional wedding photographer. One of the best ways to bring your values to life at your wedding is to hire a team of like-minded professionals. Contact me today to book your wedding photography.
