How to Plan an Eco Wedding
You don't have to feel overwhelmed as you plan your earth friendly wedding. Many bridal couples these days are looking to make earth friendly choices on their big day and things like flowers and favors that fit the bill are starting to become more available.
The engagement is really when the wedding planning starts. A bridal couple who wants to be eco-friendly will very likely choose rings that are vintage instead of brand new ones. Those couples insisting on new rings should opt for silver instead of gold as silver mining has a lower impact on the environment. Look for rings made by a jeweler that uses only precious metals that are recycled or purchased as fair trade and that uses diamonds that are conflict free.
Once the couple is engaged, the wedding date is set and the venue is secured. Selecting a venue for the reception near the ceremony reduces fuel emissions. A daytime wedding completely outdoors with ceremony and reception in a plush botanical garden, farm, or another tranquil outdoor location is the most eco-friendly. A wedding venue that is earth friendly will use napkins and table cloths that are reusable, products and decorations that are biodegradable, and appliances and lighting that conserve energy.
The caterer should use locally grown, organic produce where possible. Natural wine and organic coffee need to be part of the menu also. Couples should confirm that food is grown locally and the produce is organic if the venue is supplying the food.
Once location and date are set it is time to create invitations. Small, one-page invitations accompanied by R.S.V.P. cards that are also small in size do not use as much material and ought to be made from recycled paper. Papers that are colored a bright white contain significant levels of bleach and cannot be used for printing invitations.
Buy wedding favors and centerpieces that are made from environmentally friendly recycled papers. Wedding favor companies are recognizing the need for eco-friendly wedding details and are providing things like place cards on recycled paper with seeds attached for planting which serve as an excellent favor Confetti of bird-friendly seed is a great option as are centerpieces of potted plants rather than cut flowers.
Bouquets are often created from cut flowers. To stay more "green" be sure to bypass florist that import their flowers using high-fuel trucks. Alternately, make use of flowers that are in season and have been grown in the area. Growing your own is the best way to go. This option takes planning but many brides and grooms-to-be have great success in growing their own tulips, begonias and daffodils.
An excellent extra benefit to a newly married couple's flawless wedding day is when the couple makes a celebration of their wedded union, plus their commitment to the environment, by incorporating environmentally friendly items into the ceremony. Your guests will be grateful for what they experience and may leave committed to making decisions that are more earth friendly in their own lives.