We all try to be as earth-friendly as possible in our day-to-day, whether it is the clothes we buy or the food we eat. When taking that big step to become man and wife, some couples want their big day to be eco-friendly, too. We’ve got six ways to “green” your wedding.
Go “green” with invitations. Your best bet is by sending e-vites instead of paper invitations. However, we know not every Grandma is web-savvy and has an e-mail address—plus, you may be old-fashioned and prefer to have them sent through the mail—so be sure to find a printing company that uses recycled paper and natural inks. Say “yes” to the rental dress! Picking out a wedding dress is a big deal for many women, so to ensure your dress is both gorgeous and “green”, you may want to shelve over the big bucks to purchase a gown made by a local designer who likely uses organic and pesticide-free fabrics. (It may cost a pretty penny, but your unique dress will be worth it!) However, if dress-shopping isn’t a big deal to you, rent or borrow one; or if you do buy, buy used… perhaps even a gorgeous vintage dress! Just make use of a seamstress to mend and alter it to your size and liking. And if you aren’t too attached to it afterwards, you can sell it or rent it out to another bride-to-be. Have your wedding within walking distance. The best way to not have your big day wreak havoc on your guests’ carbon footprint is by avoiding a destination wedding where they have to fly. If you are staying in the city, be sure to have it take place where the least amount of people have to drive a long distance. Also, try to have the wedding and reception in the same locale; or at least within walking or a short driving distance from one another. Reap the benefits of an outdoor reception. When it comes to the party, try and limit the amount of resources used. One example is holding the event outdoors, as you rely less on the use of electricity and the like, as well as get the benefit of a gorgeous outdoor party. (Just be sure there is no littering involved.) If you do stick to indoors, try your best to keep it “green” by avoiding the use of too much paper decorations, not using real flowers as centerpieces (get crafty and make your own!), and hiring a caterer that uses local and organic ingredients for the menu. (Same thing goes for your wedding cake!) Opt for print-free photos. Printing photos can get expensive, not to mention wasteful! Think of the wasted paper and ink, the latter which includes the use of toxic chemicals. Only print photos you really love, and save the rest in digital format. Perhaps even upload and save them on your own personal wedding site so that all your loved ones can enjoy them, too! Keep the honeymoon sweet and eco-friendly. When planning your honeymoon, a great idea is to plan a getaway that is close to home. We’re sure there are nice and quaint bed and breakfasts outside the city that will provide for much alone time! Another idea is to plan a trip to a gorgeous destination where the environment is preserved and your stay benefits locals, just be sure to purchase a carbon credit if you’re flying far. Also, keep the good times in your hotel room as “green” as possible! |

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A traditional wedding celebration was a Sunday morning brunch -- why not hold an old fashion Sunday morning wedding and lunch celebration with cake boxes as wedding favours. (Also traditional) Organic cake, of course!
Helen Driscoll
Invitesite.com
Green Weddings since 1995.