As you embark on the exciting journey of wedding planning, you might also be considering ways to celebrate your love story in a way that reflects your values. The good news is that creating a beautiful and memorable wedding can go hand in hand with minimising your environmental impact.
Every couple deserves their dream day, and that includes options for all wedding styles, including those that are kind to the planet. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a comprehensive checklist to help you make eco-conscious choices throughout the entire wedding planning process, from invitations to favours and everything in between.
The Sustainable Wedding Checklist
Now that you’re ready to embrace a sustainable approach let’s dive into the practical details! This checklist will guide you through every step of your planning, ensuring your eco-conscious choices weave seamlessly into your dream day.
- Invitations
Skip the traditional paper route and opt for recycled paper with plantable seeds or embrace the digital age with eco-friendly e-vites. A digital option can be the best way to create save-the-dates and RSVPs. However, if you wish to create keepsakes, consider using local printers or businesses to minimise transportation emissions.
- Eco-Conscious Attire
Consider giving a vintage or pre-owned wedding dress or suit a new life! Explore local charity shops, online marketplaces, or even family heirlooms for a unique and sustainable treasure.
Alternatively, research designers who use organic materials like organic cotton, linen, bamboo, or recycled fabrics for a beautiful and eco-conscious look.
You could even encourage your wedding party and guests to embrace pre-loved attire or choose outfits made with sustainable materials.
- Eco-Friendly Venues
Selecting your venue sets the stage for your entire celebration, and sustainable options abound! Here are some ways to find a venue that aligns with your green goals:
- Consider a venue that’s easily accessible by public transportation, walking, or cycling, reducing your guests’ reliance on cars.
- Natural beauty can be your biggest décor asset! Explore outdoor venues like gardens, parks, or beaches, minimising the need for extensive decorations.
- Look for venues that are committed to eco-friendly practices. These could include venues with on-site composting, water conservation initiatives, or renewable energy sources, such as air source heat pumps.
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- Sustainable Décor
Décor plays a huge role in creating your wedding atmosphere, and with a little creativity, you can achieve stunning results while reducing your environmental impact. For example, natural elements add a touch of magic and elegance. Use potted plants, driftwood collected locally, or seasonal flowers grown nearby.
You can also skip single-use decorations by using rental companies for items like tablecloths, chairs, or centrepieces. Look for unique finds at markets or antique shops, and repurpose them into charming centrepieces, signage, or photo booth backdrops – consider borrowing from friends or family for a personal touch!
Opt for biodegradable materials whenever possible. For a warm glow, choose soy or beeswax candles, and use confetti made from dried flowers or leaves instead of traditional plastic options.
- Flowers
Flowers add a touch of magic and fragrance to any wedding, but their journey from field to ceremony can have an environmental impact. Select locally-grown, seasonal blooms to reduce the transportation impact, or discuss sustainable practices with your florist. Instead of disposable centrepieces, consider potted plants or dried flowers that guests can take home and enjoy long after the wedding.
- Food & Beverage
Food and drinks are a cornerstone of any wedding celebration, and by making mindful choices, you can create a delicious and sustainable menu that reflects your eco-conscious values.
Source local, seasonal, and organic ingredients for a lower carbon footprint, or choose caterers with sustainable practices. Offer vegetarian or vegan options to reduce meat consumption and opt for reusable or compostable tableware and cutlery.
- Favours & Gifts
Wedding favours are a sweet way to thank your guests for celebrating your special day. However, traditional favours often end up unused or discarded. Consider, instead, locally produced honey, jams, or small potted herbs as favours. These are not only delicious but also support local businesses and minimise packaging waste.
Wildflower seed packets, plantable seed paper with your name and wedding date, or even small seed bombs are beautiful and sustainable options. Alternatively you could choose to donate to a cause close to your hearts in your guests’ names.
- Transportation
Transportation can be a significant contributor to a wedding’s environmental impact, especially for guests travelling long distances. Encourage car sharing or provide shuttle services for guests. You might also consider the venue’s accessibility for walking, cycling, or public transport.
- After the Wedding
The celebration might be over, but your commitment to sustainability can continue! You can donate leftover food to shelters or charities, repurpose or sell decorations for future events, and preserve your wedding dress for future generations.
Go digital by switching printed photo albums for a digital wedding album instead. Consider sending digital thank-you notes to your guests, as this saves on paper and postage while still expressing your gratitude.
Celebrating Love and the Planet
By incorporating these eco-friendly tips and choices, you can create a wedding that’s not only beautiful and memorable, but also reflects your commitment to a healthy planet. Remember, every sustainable decision, big or small, adds up.
With a little planning and creativity, you can celebrate your love story while ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and best wishes for a joyous and sustainable celebration!
