Happy Earth Day! How are you reducing the carbon footprint of your wedding? Small things can equal a big change, so here are a few green (and great!) ideas:
Tip 1: Choose an eco-friendly venue to reduce the environmental impact of your wedding. Looking for a Colorado venue that does just that? Check out Devil’s Thumb Ranch.
Tip 2: Shop for your gown at a store that recycles vintage, sample and gently used dresses. Getting married in Colorado? Look no further than Eco-Bridal Gowns. When it comes to accessories, wear a family heirloom or consider local designers.
Tip 3: Create a wedding website. You’ll cut costs of paper and stamps, not to mention save trees. Whether you prefer to go completely paperless, or just use the site to track RSVPs, every little bit helps. For beautiful (and free!) website templates that suit any wedding style, look no further than mywedding.com.
Tip 4: The average American meal travels 1,500 miles. Choose a catering company that uses in-season organic, sustainable and locally grown food to decrease the carbon footprint of your meal.
Tip 5: Use local, seasonal and organic flowers. Consider simpler arrangements and reusing ceremony flowers at your reception. Getting married in Colorado and looking for a florist who stands for all things organic and beautiful? Check out amazing creations by Plum Sage Flowers.
Tip 6: When it comes to invitations, programs, and save-the-dates, less is more. Use recycled paper, soy inks, or communicating the details of your wedding digitally.
Tip 7: Seek out eco-conscious jewelers that use recycled stones and metals. Also consider family heirlooms, vintage or antiques, and handmade items.
Tip 8: Skip the tangible favors, and make a small donation on behalf of each guest to a cause you support.
Tip 9: Register for gifts with companies that offer eco-friendly products. Look no further than Green Bride Guide’s Green Wedding Registry.
Tip 10: Hold your ceremony and reception in one centralized location as a way to limit travel for your guests and wedding party. Coordinating a carpool for your guests or renting a bus or trolley will not only make things easier, it will also minimize emissions while getting everyone to and from your celebration.
What small (or big) steps are you taking to have an environmentally responsible wedding? Please share via comments below – we’d love to hear it!
Image Credit: Dream Green Weddings
