With Earth Day right around the corner, we wanted to do our part by sharing 10 Ways to plan an Eco-Friendly Wedding.
Protecting the environment is increasingly important, but luckily, it's also increasingly easy. With new technologies and innovations in science, eco-friendly finds are now more accessible than ever. If you and your soon-to-be-spouse plan to host an earth-loving celebration, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of ways to do so. Biodegradable materials and reusable decor can help your wedding be waste-free, while natural and sustainable foods, venues, and flowers can keep things even more ecologically responsible. From reducing electricity and fuel to re-purposing and giving back, we've got tips for every aspect of your big day, because there's no reason your dream wedding can't be a green wedding, too. Here, a few favorite ideas for executing an environmentally- and socially-conscious event.
1. Choose an Ethical Ring
Green wedding planning can begin as early as ring shopping. Choose an antique diamond, or go to a dealer who is committed to obtaining precious metals and gemstones in ways that are socially and environmentally responsible. Tiffany & Co., Ash Hilton, Brilliant Earth, Cred Jewellery, Dogeared, Leber Jeweler, and Ingle & Rhode are all great resources.
2. Use Recycled Paper
Save-the-dates, invitations, programs, menus, and thank-you cards can quickly add up to a whole lot of paper. Look for recycled paper options and when possible, post information such as directions on your wedding website instead of using an additional piece of paper.
3. PICKING A SUSTAINABLE WEDDING VENUE
Get the best of both worlds by saying your "I do"s in a wedding venue who does their part in be sustainable. Here at Bella Collina San Clemente, for example, grows some of our produce in our on-site garden. You can also opt for venues that are beautiful on their own, requiring less décor to be added to turn them into your celebration spot.
4. Get Thrifty
Scour flea markets and thrift stores for forgotten treasures and give them a second life as wedding décor. Textiles, glasses, and candles are great options! Another option is to use what you already have. For example, this couple cut birchwood from a tree that had fallen by their home to use as part of their centerpieces.
5. Decorate with Double-Duty Items
Make your place cards or centerpieces work as wedding favors. Here, succulents planted in small concrete pots serve as both escort cards and tokens of thanks.
6. OPT FOR BIODEGRADABLE ITEMS
Using biodegradable items offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional disposable items. Opt for dried flower petals toss versus the traditional confetti.
This Thimblepress's dried flower confetti is an eco-friendly and no less dazzling way to celebrate. Even better? The label is letterpressed on seed paper, which you can plant under soil and watch grow to remember the special day!
7. Go Local
Cut down on your carbon footprint by hiring local vendors, and buying local and in-season flowers and food. Bonus: Regional touches serve double-duty to bring together the theme of your party.
8. Recycle Your Wedding Flowers
Let your arrangements live beyond the wedding day by donating them to local hospitals, nursing home, or shelters.
Ask your Bella Collina Coordinator how we can arrange for your flowers to be donated after your wedding!
9. Get Charitable
Purchase products from organizations that give back, such as vino from ONEHOPE Wine.
Other couples get involved with charities that are close to their heart and in leui of favors, simply present a note explaining that a donation was made in the guests’ honor.
10. Register Responsibly
For your wedding registry, choose products made with sustainable materials, and support companies that are doing good. Bambeco is an online store offering only reclaimed, repurposed, renewable, recycled, natural, or organic items. Or, for couples that have everything, consider setting up a charity registry through organizations like the I Do Foundation for a cause close to your heart.
With these easy ideas, creating a wedding with more eco-friendly options is easier than ever!
Happy planning!
