Green Wedding: Not just a color anymore

Many brides are concerned about being  eco friendly.  The following tips will  cover all the basics for being an Eco-Bride.

There is no longer such a thing as a “typical” wedding, but what is becoming more common now are couples concern for being “green”.  I am not talking about the color green, but the individuals who are more conscientious of the environment. Funny thing is you don’t really have to think too hard about being an Eco-Bride. It truly is easy and in many ways more cost effective. How can you go wrong, save money and go green?

Here are some easy tips to help with the planning of your “Green” day!

Location

1)  Choose somewhere that is a central location where you can have the ceremony and the reception in the same location, it lessens the travel and hassle for guests but also cuts down on the emission omitted from all the cars on the road.

2)  Also, think about having your event outside; not only do you cut costs in decorating, since who wants to take out the natural beauty of the setting, but you are using all the senses of nature to light your event and give it natural charm.

3)   If you are not interested in an outdoor venue, there are many non for profit venues that are available for rent that will help support a cause that you are personally believe in such as, an art gallery, zoo, garden, etc.

Stationary

1)  There are many materials that you can use that are better for the environment, such as: recycled handmade, hemp and organic cotton.

2)  Utilize the Internet and email e-cards and set up a website .  ewedding.com is great and free for 12 months  to let people know what the details of your wedding are so you don’t have to spend the money or waste paper with save the date cards and putting it all in the contents of the invitation.

The Big Day

1)  Table Cards ~ Try a unique twist; use an organic material to show your guests to the table, such a leaves, rocks or different items you can find that goes with your theme and location.

2)  Food ~ if you have a buffet style reception and you have left over food have the caterer arrange to have the remaining donated to a local food bank or homeless shelter.

3)  Floral arrangements ~ donate these to your guests to take home to enjoy while you are on your honeymoon or better yet, have them delivered to a local hospital to have sick patients enjoy them.

4)  Favors~ There are many favors that are eco friendly and charming, plantable favors and  coasters made of bamboo to name a few.

5)  Photography ~ it seems as though everyone has a digital camera. Make an announcement to your guests to share their pictures with the rest of your guests through a free Internet photo sharing site. Therefore, your guests can see all your photos, but only print the ones that have special meaning to them.

There are so many easy ways to “Go Green,” save money and stay true with the theme of your wedding. The best part of it all is you are creating something long lasting for more than you and your guests!

Thank you, Wedding Planner Sara Grube Cerny for your helpful suggestions.

 

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