If you watched Beth’s video about ways to be socially conscious during your wedding day, you already that we’re always excited to be creative when it comes to honoring Mother Nature. While we do believe a wedding day is worthy of major splurges and we don’t think anyone should pressure themselves to cut back on this one day, for those couples who do want to be a little more environmentally friendly, we’re sharing a few tips below:
DINE ON ANTIQUE OR REPURPOSED CHINA
Not only is this such a beautiful option, it is also sustainable. Using vintage tabletop pieces reduces the demand to produce new china. There are many rental companies throughout the world who have beautiful collections available and we love how they’re making a difference
Image captured by Max and Friends Photography
CURATE A FARM TO TABLE MENU
By working with your chef or caterer to source all foods from local farms, you can reduce the impact factory farms make on the environment. In addition, you give guests the freshest dining experience around. This is a great place to create a positive impact and experience that will even make your celebration that much more successful
Image captured by Erich McVey
CONSIDER POTTED PLANTS, TREES OR BLOOMS FOR DECOR
Using potted decor is not only a beautiful design detail, it also makes a meaningful gift for guests to take home with them. We love the idea that guests will enjoy this plant, floral or tree for years to come and ideally think of you along the way.
Image captured by Yvette Roman
RENT INSTEAD OF BUYING
Although this may seem like a no brainer, renting your decor is typically very environmentally friendly. By using items that are already in existence, you are avoiding the production of new custom items and leave the items for others to reuse in their own creative ways later.
Image captured by Lauren and Abby Ross
DONATE YOUR FLOWERS
There are so many great organizations available in most major cities that can guide you through this process. If you can’t find an organization, ask your florist as I’m sure they can help. Instead of tossing the floral arrangements after a few hours on your wedding day, consider sending the pieces to senior centers, shelters, and hospitals. This reduces waste while bringing joy to others
Image captured by Kate Headley
WEAR VINTAGE OR SOURCE FROM SUSTAINABLE DESIGNERS
Whether it’s your mom’s gown repurposed, or a vintage piece from your favorite designer, this is a beautiful way to reduce production. Or if vintage isn’t your style, do a bit of extra research to identify gown designers who are socially conscious and considering the environment and employees when creating their gowns. Sustainability is always in fashion but has grown in significance over the years meaning the options are gorgeous and getting more plentiful every day.
Image captured by Yvette Roman
If implementing any of the above details feels like too big of a sacrifice, you can still make an impact through charitable registries like our sister company, The Good Beginning. During our travels throughout the world, we have fallen in love with the Earth and it is one of the main reasons The Good Beginning was created. While your able to donate to any cause, some of our most popular organizations have an environmentally focused mission. Some of our favorites Water.org, Natural Resources Defense Council, The Sierra Club, and World Wildlife Fund. No matter how little or small, every effort to protect our planet helps. And if you want to dive deeper into this topic, check out Beth’s video on ways to be more socially conscious during your wedding.
