As a society, we have all become much more aware of our planet’s issues and the role we individually play. Weddings traditionally don’t tend to be hugely eco-friendly events. There can be lots of one use decor, an abundance of food waste, heaps of plastic packaging, and that’s without mentioning the carbon footprint of all your guests travel.
Many couples find that they simply cannot ignore this environmental impact when planning their wedding day. So today, I am going to guide you through some of the small changes you can make to your day that, in turn, will make a world of difference.
Ring Shop Responsibly. Ethical conflict-free rings
Choosing ethical and eco-friendly wedding jewellery should be the first green decision you make for your wedding day. When picking out both your engagement and wedding bands, track your diamond or gemstones’ origins to ensure the precious stone has been sourced ethically. It’s also important to research your jeweller and find one that has a focus on socially responsible jewellery.
There are always alternatives to buying first hand from large or independent jewellers, such as seeking out a second hand or vintage wedding ring – Jon chose me a beautiful vintage engagement ring from Etsy. We also hand made our wedding rings together at an individuals ring making workshop which was a wonderful experience!
Be Thoughtful About Who You Hire
Hiring small, local companies with like-minded or sustainable practices is a great place to start.
Hiring reusable furniture, lighting, flowers, accessories or props instead of buying new where feasible is the greenest way to go. Remember that the more locally you can source it, the better. If hiring isn’t possible, check out freecycle, gumtree, eBay or Facebook market place for preloved items that you can pass on again after your big day.
When selecting your venue, clarify that they avoid using single-use paper and plastics such as utensils and plates.
Food and Drink
Make your menu eco-friendly by finding a local catering company and wedding cake maker with a sustainable ethos. This may include them sourcing organic, local, Fairtrade or ethically-produced ingredients where possible.
A vegan or vegetarian menu may be too drastic for some, but it certainly would reduce the wedding meal’s environmental impact. Don’t forget that sourcing your alcohol from local wineries, distilleries, and breweries is another great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
The Apparel
Planning a sustainable wedding isn’t just about the rings, venue, decor, food and drink; it’s also about YOU as a couple and what you wear! An easy way to minimise wedding waste is to rock low-waste, eco-friendly attire.
There are so many ways for the fashion choices on your special day to be made sustainable or zero-waste. Consider choosing ethical clothing brands, supporting small sewists, hiring your outfit or going second hand. This also works brilliantly if you want a vintage look for your bridesmaids. Moss Bros have just created a whole range of hirable eco-suit options. You may choose dresses and suits to wear again after your wedding to not contribute to fast fashion. Some couples even ask guests only to wear consciously chosen preloved outfits.
Thanks alot.
Your blog is a real aesthetic pleasure for young women.