Green Wedding Ideas

As we approach the wedding season, I thought it would be a good idea to share some green wedding ideas with you. So, if you’re planning your special day and want to do so sustainably to protect the environment, then this is the post for you.

Many couples today are looking for ways to celebrate their marriage without leaving a heavy footprint on the planet. That’s why green weddings are gaining in popularity: these eco-conscious weddings allow you to say ‘I do’ in a way that matches your environmental values and protects the planet too . In this post, we will look at the various components that contribute to creating the perfect wedding day. From decor and dresses to venues and favours, we will explore ways in which you can make sustainable choices for your perfect day.

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Eco-Friendly Invitations: Digital and Traditional Options

It’s a good idea to go digital with your invitations and RSVPs. This approach can save countless trees, and it includes some helpful side benefits: it’s easier to manage your guest list, and your responses may even come in faster. Plus, designing your own unique digital invites adds a personal touch that printed cards can’t match. Explore Canva for some beautiful, user-friendly designs. However, if you want to go down the traditional route of sending out invitations, there are some very eco-friendly options available. Consider seed-paper wedding stationery. These plantable seed paper wedding invitations have wildflower seeds embeded in them and can be planted in you guests’ gardens after the wedding.

Decorating Responsibly: Sustainable Choices for Your Wedding

One of the first steps to a green wedding is rethinking decorations. Instead of single-use items, consider reusable options such as potted plants or recycled sari bunting that can be repurposed or passed on after the event. If disposable decor is necessary, aim for biodegradable or better still compostable materials that won’t linger in landfills for decades. You could opt for eco balloons available on Etsy. These balloons can be placed in your compost bin after use.

An Eco-Conscious Venue: Sustainability Meets Celebration

Your venue choice can also reflect your commitment to the environment. An outdoor setting like a garden or beach often requires less energy and decoration than a traditional hall because the natural beauty around you is all the decoration you need. So if your wedding is going to take place in a sunny location, then an outdoor setting could be the perfect choice. For those of you who prefer an indoor venue, then choosing one that specialises in sustainable practices would be a great choice. Hitched has a list of sustainable wedding venues you can check out here. Remember, it pays to research and select a place that shares your green approach to life.

Conscious Celebrations: Eco-Friendly Entertainment and Favours

Choosing entertainment that respects the planet not only sets the tone for your green wedding but also serves as a statement about the values you and your partner share. When it comes to music, consider hiring local artists who can perform live, reducing the carbon footprint of travel.

DIY favours can make a special impact not just because they’re handcrafted but also because they minimise the environmental strain. Think seed packets, potted plants, or homemade treats that guests can enjoy without leaving a trace of waste behind. If you don’t have the time to make your own, then check out Etsy for some eco-friendly favours.

Confetti comes in many forms and if you want this at your wedding, there are a range of eco-friendly options to consider. Biodegradable alternatives are available in Etsy. Try dried flower petals for example, such as the ones shown below.

Eco-Elegant Attire

When we think about weddings, the attire (particularly the bride and groom’s) is where our attention is focussed. It’s also an area where we can make environmentally conscious choices. Brides, grooms, and wedding parties now have the ability to make a significant environmental impact with their fashion choices.

You may start with a selection of ethical brands. There are a number designers who prioritise sustainable practices. These brands focus on every stage of the garment’s life cycle, from sourcing materials responsibly to ensuring fair labour practices. While they might not be as widely advertised, these options offer an eco-friendly elegance that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics. For more information on ethical brands check out The Natural Wedding Company.

Alternatively, there’s the vintage or second-hand market, which is growing in popularity. A vintage wedding dress or suit not only adds a story to the attire but also reduces the demand for new resources. Plus, there’s a certain charm in a piece that carries history.

For those who prefer something current yet conscious, hiring wedding attire is a viable option. It allows multiple people to enjoy a single garment, reducing the demand for production, and the environmental footprint left behind. By Rotation is a ‘shared wardrobe’ app, where you can rent, lend and sell beautiful designer dresses and at a fraction of the price.

Select Ethical Wedding Jewellery

Opting for ethical wedding jewellery ensures that your beautiful pieces are crafted with respect for both people and the planet. Look for jewellers who use conflict-free diamonds or lab-grown alternatives to traditional mined stones. Additionally, consider artisans who work with recycled metals or support fair trade practices. The Natural Wedding Company have a directory of ethical jewellers with links to their websites. By choosing ethical wedding jewellery, you can be confident that your accessories align with your principles and contribute positively to a sustainable future.

The Wedding Breakfst

When it comes to weddings, food isn’t just a meal; it’s part of the experience. The choices made can have a significant impact on the planet, so focusing on sustainable catering options is a conscious choice. By selecting local and organic food, you will be supporting local farmers and reducing transportation emissions whilst also providing fresher, tastier options for your guests.

You may want to consider offering plant-based menu options to your guests. Increasingly popular, these dishes can significantly lower the event’s carbon footprint. A vegan or vegetarian course doesn’t just cater to guests with those dietary preferences; it also introduces a more eco-friendly choice that everyone can enjoy.

Finally, the drinks package. An eco-friendly bar, filled with organic wines and local craft beers, can be a highlight for many guests. These selections not only taste great but also support sustainable practices and local breweries in the drinks’ industry.

Planning your green wedding represents a meaningful commitment to sustainability and whether you simply choose one or two eco-friendly options for your special day or decide to go all-out with a completely sustainable wedding day, every conscious choice you make is a positive contribution to the world we share. From eco-conscious decorations to ethical attire choices, every aspect of a green wedding reflects a dedication to protecting our planet. So, as you plan your special day, remember that every eco-friendly decision you make brings us one step closer to a brighter, greener future.

I hope you found this information helpful and feel inspired to make some ‘green’ choices for your special day. If you’d like to share your thoughts or have any questions, please leave your comments below.

Elaine