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As an engaged couple, you have a nearly infinite number of choices to make. Incorporating
earth-friendly elements takes little, if any, additional effort when you have the
right resources.
Here are key things to consider for a green and gorgeous wedding.
Jewelry -Choosing a sustainable ring is a big part of going green for your wedding.
Look for ethically sourced diamonds or choose an antique ring from a local shop.
You can also work with jewelry artisans specializing in sustainable diamonds and
gemstones set in recycled/reclaimed metals.
Invitations - For a spring wedding, plantable save-the-dates and invitations come
in many styles and colors. If you want to go digital, you can spread your good news
via email or use virtual invitations. Traditional ink is petroleum derived and usually
come from overseas so printing with soy ink on recycled or Forest Stewardship Council
(FSC) certified paper is another green choice.
Attire - Look for dresses made with sustainable materials like organic cotton and
peace silk. Buy something that you know you will wear again, and do the same for
your bridesmaids. After the wedding, recycle your dress by selling it online or donating
it to a charity! The men can wear suits they already own and wear a sustainable boutonniere
with organic flowers tucked inside.
Beauty/Makeup -Many of today’s beauty products have small quantities of toxic ingredients.
Use natural essential oils and soaps with nontoxic scents, organic makeup in eco-chic
packaging and avoid permanent hair dyes.
Flowers - Local, seasonal and organic flowers are the way to go! Ordering local blooms
reduces shipping distance, which means less carbon emissions. If you want flowers
that won’t wilt, create arrangements made from silk, dried or clay flowers. For a
creative colorful bouquet, you can join together old vintage buttons and brooches.
Photography - Film processing requires toxic chemicals, takes a long time, costs
more, and does not yield higher quality results. By staying digital, your photographer
can delete unwanted images, provide you with online proofs, color correct, and post
all of the photos on the web. Order only the prints you want, and have them printed
on eco-friendly paper.
Entertainment -If you are looking for greener alternatives, try an acoustic band
or D.J. using an eco-friendly set up. A great band can be flexible, fun, and energetic.
To save electricity, ask your band to use LED lights and to skip the disposable handouts
for kids.
Décor -Instead of using a disposable aisle runner, scatter petals, leaves, or recycled
confetti on the ground. If you are a DIY bride, create a runner using sustainable
material like burlap. You can save your runner and hang it up as a mural or a decorative
piece in your home. Keep with the season and create table decor that matches your
theme. For a beach wedding fill reusable glass jars with seashells, soy candles and
beach glass.
Food and Beverage -Buy local, seasonal and organic food and drink. Organic meals
are pesticide-free and better for you and the earth. Serve bite-sized appetizers
and desserts! Think chilled shot glasses of gazpacho soup for a summer wedding or
mini cherry tarts for a classic fall dessert. Guests will be less likely to take
a bite of cake and walk away if the portions are smaller.
Gifts -Eco-friendly gift registries are the way to go! Google “green gift registry”
for a list of ideas. Fair trade organizations also have homegoods made by gifted
artisans. Ask your guests to donate to a charity or organization of your choice.
Sign up for a honeymoon or experience registry to enjoy a green getaway!
Favors - Skip the plastic throwaways and give your guests plantable favors for spring
or edible treats! Place a chocolate wedding menu at each guest’s seat or a thank
you message on cookies. A small potted plant that guests can bring home and plant
in their garden or a DIY terrarium is a great green favor.
Transportation -Keep travel to a minimum: have your ceremony and reception at the
same venue. You can also arrange carpooling on your wedding website ahead of time
for guests. Use alternative fuel buses so the entire wedding party can travel together.
For a classic twist, rent a horse and carriage to take you away instead of a car!
Travel - Purchase carbon offsets from your airline. Volunteer in the local community
where you are staying. Look for green certified hotels, sustainable safaris, scuba
or hiking tours that leave little impact. Stay close to home for a staycation honeymoon.
Choose your favorite bed and breakfast, walk around your favorite town and just unwind.
Green Bride Guide™ is a comprehensive and credible resource for green wedding product
and services. The site’s directory connects couples with green wedding service providers
in their area, such as restaurants that serve local, organic food and limousine companies
that use hybrid vehicles. The directory includes vendors throughout the United States,
Canada, and the United Kingdom. For further information on the Green Bride Guide™
go to www.greenbrideguide.com
Planning Your Dream 
