I’m sure that many couples don’t pair the words “sustainability” and “wedding” together. But maybe you do – considering you landed on this blog! With the average wedding producing an estimated 400 to 600 pounds of waste and 63 tons of CO2 (according to The Green Bride Guide), it’s clear that weddings can leave a large environmental footprint.
In this guide, we’ll give you 6 simple steps to planning a beautiful, eco-conscious wedding without sacrificing style or sentimentality. From green venues to locally-sourced wedding favors, we’ll show you how to make every aspect of your wedding as unique and thoughtful as your love story.
1. Start with Sustainable Choices for the Venue and Decor
The venue sets the stage for your wedding day, so choosing a space that aligns with your eco-conscious values is a great first step. Look for venues that:
- Utilize energy-efficient lighting and renewable energy sources.
- Offer recycling and composting programs.
- Prioritize green landscaping and water conservation efforts.
And when it comes to decor, less is more! Consider borrowing, renting, or buying second-hand items for your wedding, such as linens, vases, or table settings. There are tons of reselling/reusing groups on Facebook!
Plus, you can incorporate natural elements like seasonal flowers and locally sourced greenery, which are beautiful, sustainable, and aligned with the ethos of supporting local businesses.
2. Choose Eco-Friendly Wedding Attire
Every detail of your eco-friendly wedding attire can reflect your sustainable values. Opt for designers who specialize in ethical fashion, meaning that they use organic or recycled fabrics. Alternatively, renting or purchasing pre-loved attire is a fantastic way to reduce waste while still looking stunning. I bet you can find something even at your local thrift store!
Bonus tip: Collaborating with local designers to create one-of-a-kind pieces supports the same community-driven values as locally sourced wedding favors.
3. Sustainable Catering and Zero-Waste Dining
Food plays a central role in any wedding celebration, so making conscious catering choices can have a big impact. Choose a caterer who sources ingredients locally and focuses on seasonal, organic menus. Serving food family-style or via plated service reduces the need for disposable dishes and utensils.
Leftovers? Arrange for them to be composted or donated to local shelters. This ensures that nothing goes to waste while supporting your community.
4. Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors from Local Artisans
Wedding favors are a way to thank your guests, but they can also align with your sustainable goals. At Wedding Favors Hub, we offer locally crafted, eco-friendly options like seed packets, reusable tote bags, or handmade soaps.
Here are a few more wedding favors from small businesses that you can consider:
By choosing us, you not only give your guests a meaningful memento but also support small, women-owned businesses that create these thoughtful items with care.
Remember, your guests will treasure something that feels personal and intentional, just like the wedding itself.
5. Eco-Conscious Gift Registry and Donations
Rethink the traditional gift registry by including eco-friendly items such as energy-efficient appliances or experiences like a tree-planting ceremony in your honor. You can also encourage your guests to donate to environmental causes, creating a lasting legacy of love for your special day.
Side note: If you are ever a wedding guest yourself, consider reusing some newspaper or magazines to wrap your gift!
Make Your Wedding A Celebration Of Both Love And Sustainability
Planning an eco-friendly wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming or require compromising on the beauty and uniqueness of your special day. With just a few thoughtful choices, you can reduce your environmental impact and create an experience that reflects both your love and your values.
By following these five simple steps—choosing sustainable venues, embracing eco-conscious attire, reducing waste, and, of course, giving locally sourced, artisan wedding favors—you’re making sure that your wedding isn’t just a celebration, but a positive contribution to the planet.
Now that you’ve seen how easy it can be to plan an eco-conscious wedding, why not take the next step? At Wedding Favors Hub, we specialize in unique, sustainable favors crafted by local artisans and small businesses.
Visit our online shop and browse our thoughtful, handcrafted wedding favors that add a meaningful touch to your big day while supporting the environment and your community.