When a woman envisions her ideal wedding, green is not exactly the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, more and more couples are inspired by a growing concern for the environment to plan a wedding that is less wasteful and polluting. Moreover, going green gets easier all the time.
According to the Organic Trade Association, the number of earth-friendly products and services is growing offering everything from recycled paper invitations to "green" honeymoon hotels.
So whether you want a completely green wedding or just lean a little "green-ish" in the details, here are some eco-friendly ways to leave a smaller footprint on the earth on the most memorable day of your life.
1. Consider eco-friendly wedding invitations printed on recycled paper, non chlorine dye and vegetable based inks produced in a unionized print shop
2. Register locally for eco-friendly wedding gifts - hemp or cotton bedding, bamboo dishware, a fair trade teapot or cutting board made of recycled wood.
3. Eco-friendly wedding dresses made of natural fibers - cotton, hemp, silk or raw silk wedding dresses - consume less carbon than bridal dresses made of synthetic fiber. Eco-chic? Indeed. It's available if you look for it - Christos 823 White Silk Organza Bridal Dress with Cotton Embroidery.
4. Ask the caterer to prepare food with organic or locally grown produce for your reception.
5. Use soy wedding candles which burn longer, slower and with less soot than paraffin. They are also biodegradable.
6. Use locally grown wildflowers or purchase organic wedding flowers from a florist who specializes in arrangements made with organically grown blossoms.
7. Keep locations closet to home to reduce the distance guests must drive.
8. Consider small potted plants, wildflower seeds or chocolate from companies that donate part of their profits to environmental causes for wedding favors.
9. Donate leftover food to a local homeless shelter.
10. Ask friends and family to donate to a worthy environmental cause rather than give gifts.
... and these are just thought starters.
A green wedding offers the modern, socially awake couple a fun, practical and environmentally friendly way to personalize your wedding day and do some good along the way.
