The issue of sustainability is of high importance to many people. These are individuals that try to incorporate it into every aspect of their lives. But what happens if you are planning your wedding? Is there a way you can have an eco-friendly wedding?
The answer is yes, according to the experts at SoCal Bridal Show& Expo. They say that there are many eco-friendly vendors at bridal shows in Orange County and other parts of the country. You can also do your bit in preparation for the big day by following some of the tips below.
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Make Eco-Friendly Invitations
If you cannot find someone to make eco-friendly invitations for you, you could consider making your own using recycled paper. Or you could look for a printing company that is doing its bit for the environment by planting trees whenever they receive orders.
Another way to be sustainable when sending out invitations is to avoid using paper invitations at all and opt for a digital invite instead. You can send a group email to those you want to invite or do so in a closed group on social media.
Create a Registry with Eco-Friendly Gifts
If you are hoping to be as sustainable as possible, consider only adding eco-friendly gifts to your registry. You might want to include bamboo straws, wine glasses made from recycled glass, towels made from hemp and organic cotton, bedding made from organic cotton, or furniture made from reclaimed wood.
Choose an Eco-Friendly Catering Company
A catering company that specializes in using locally sourced ingredients would be a good choice. If you really want to be environmentally friendly, a vegan menu would be ideal but imposing this on your guests may be a bit extreme. You could do a combination of a vegan and non-vegan menu, with the non-vegan menu containing organic meat and dairy products. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by sourcing alcohol from local vendors.
Make Your Own Wedding Décor
Try to make wedding decorations yourself from items that you have at home. You would be surprised at how creative you can get with the things you already have. For example, you could use mirrors from your home decorated with artificial flowers that can be taken back home when you are finished. There are so many different tutorials online that will give you inspiration when creating unique pieces for your wedding venue. This will also help you to save money.
Consider Donating Any Leftover Food
If there is food leftover after the day, ask the caterers if they can donate to a local homeless shelter or a food bank, rather than throwing it in the trash. This is something that you will need to discuss in advance so that it can be packed properly and so that arrangements can be made for it to be collected or dropped off.
Rent Instead of Buy
Most brides want a beautiful gown, but you don’t need to buy one. There are many fabulous rental stores where you can find a beautiful gown to rent for your big day. After all, you are unlikely to ever wear the dress again. If you really want to have your own dress that you can keep for sentimental reasons, consider buying a vintage dress as this is better for the environment. Plus, you can always pass it down through the generations.
Keep Your Favors Eco-Friendly
It is customary to provide guests with favors but avoid items that are not good for the environment. Instead of candies wrapped in plastic, try handmade soaps made from organic materials or a pack of wildflower seeds in a recycled card pack.
