You are eco-conscious, (and so are we) and it's a big deal for you and your companion. Maybe your guests are too? We encourage you to consider green or sustainable wedding for your wedding day and honeymoon. So, what exactly does planning a sustainable wedding look like and where do we begin?
Believe It or Not
- could it be true that a wedding can produce as many CO2 emissions as five people would in an entire year?
What does it mean to plan a sustainable wedding?
“Sustainable weddings, or green weddings, are celebrations planned where the couple’s goal is to try and lower their ecological footprint. There is no right way to plan an event that is 100% green, because it would be impossible. The goal is to try and lower the events impact on the environment in any way you can. There are ways you can reduce the environmental and ethical impact of your wedding, let's talk!
For example, one couple may book a local caterer that uses 80% cultural ingredients, while another couple will request organic products, gifts, decor and food. Both of these options are green, the key is to ask the right questions at the beginning so that the vendors are aware of your sustainability goals for your wedding. If we let vendors know our goals, then we can both come up with options to make your services more eco-friendly. Like:
eliminating plastic products whenever possible and at reception service
having napkins made from recycled paper at the cocktail hour
make your menu eco-friendly - review food needs for less waste (vegetarian has less impact)
source your alcohol from local vendors, a local bottle of wine for a toast instead of champagne
did you know there are ethical bridal, bridesmaid and groomswear designers?
limit your stationary and invites to one, ask for recycled paper or forego it all together
choose a florist who shops local or request local floral, living plants and fauna (think potted greenery, flowers)
ask for biodegradable decor like confetti, glitter, non-toxic candles
charity wedding favours, lots of couples choose charitable donations