How to Plan A Green Wedding

Many environmentally conscious wedding couples are choosing to have “green” weddings instead of traditional weddings.  Couples are trying to reduce their carbon footprint, protect the Earth, and still have an unforgettable event.  Having a wedding that is beautiful, traditional, and also eco-friendly is a possibility if couples plan ahead and exchange regular options for green options.

Start with the Invitation

Traditionally the wedding couple picks out the most beautiful invitations and doesn’t concern themselves with materials used.  A green option is to go with invitations that are not only pleasing to the eye, but are also made from recycled materials or hemp.  In green weddings it is also acceptable to skip hand held invitations and send out e-invitations through email.  E-invites can also say you money on not only invitation costs but also postage.

Eco-friendly Wedding Gowns

When it comes to the Bride’s beautiful dream wedding dress there are also green options available.  Gowns made in natural materials, such as organic cotton, silk, and silk satin, are becoming very popular.  Hemp is also an option, it absorbs moisture, naturally resists mold and mildew, and therefore stores better.  Renting a gown or using mom’s or grandma’s dress is also an environmentally friendly option.

What to Serve On Your Reception

Organic food is easy to come by.  Many cake makers already cater to eco-concerned parties.  Tell them your concerns and watch them create special dishes just for you that are both delicious and organic.  Organic options may also fit into special diets some of your guests may have.

Eco-Friendly Confetti

As the Bride and Groom exit the reception it’s traditional for confetti to be thrown.  A green option is bird seed.  It’s classic and it feeds the local birds.  Never throw rice as once a bird eats rice it can expand in their stomach and make them sick or worse.  Bird seed is a safe green option that is also very traditional.

Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors

Lastly, and just as important as any wedding aspect, is the wedding favors for the bridal party and guests.  Green ideas are endless in this department.  Any organic gift or gift made from 100% recycled materials is acceptable.  Some popular organic gifts are organic candles, seed packets, a tree sapling, organic soaps, organic candies and chocolates; even organic food baskets.  Your wedding guests would never forget getting a Lucky Bamboo plant at your wedding.  For the bridesmaids a gift basket of organic beauty products would be spectacular.

Having a green wedding is just as easy as having a traditional wedding.  You can have the wedding of your dreams and still be environmentally conscious.  If you plan correctly, your green wedding will be just as elegant, if not more so, than traditional weddings.  Your guests will never forget the “green” wedding they attended and you will know you did your part to protect the Earth.

Photo Credits:  Elegant Green Wedding by brideadvocate on Polyvore.com