While your wedding can be one of the most cherished days of your life, it can also be the most wasteful. From the possible paper goods that will be thrown out, to specific decor that gets the boot after the big day – it may seem impossible to find a sustainable and affordable choice that won’t create so much waste. Luckily, there are small changes you can make involving your invitations, catering, decor, and more, that will have a large impact with little thought! Thankfully, there are so many sustainable options these days and plenty of advice when it comes to greener options, so hopefully as you read through this, you are inspired to make a few of these changes. (The environment will thank you endlessly.) 

Let’s start with invitations! Have you ever heard of seed paper? This idea has become quite the popular one over the years! Seed paper is a biodegradable material that sprouts into flowers when planted in a pot of soil. This takes your invitation on to a whole new life. Check out Botanical Paperworks for your “how-to” on ordering these invites! Another way you can be eco-friendly is by sending out virtual invites or thank you’s. This will also save you hundreds on stamps, printing and design!

Do your venue research! Look into ceremony and reception sites that are making sustainability a priority. According to Brides.com, “One great resource to start your venue hunt: the Green Building Information Gateway. You can search for hotels and event spaces with LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certifications and Energy Star ratings.” 

Now let’s shine the spotlight on floral arrangements. Think about the ways that these plants can be used after the big day. We went with dried floral arrangements that we could keep long after our wedding as home decor as well as a special memory. Even switching to potted plants that can be moved to different locations or repotted and transplanted to a garden after the event will reduce the environmental impact of freshly cut florals! No need to cut out florals entirely – just make sure you dive into the eco-conscious options available in this category! 

Lastly, and this goes for many many choices you’ll see along the planning path – rent, don’t buy! Single use anything won’t be the best pick towards helping the earth, so check out websites that are focused on renting decor and equipment, so you won’t have to toss any of these items after. You may even be able to rent these items from your venue space, all you have to do is ask! It’ll save you a headache in the long run. 

As for a grand exit after you say I do? Tell your guests to opt out of throwing the rice or paper shreds. This certainly isn’t the best for the environment, so why not choose a gorgeous biodegradable option, such as lavender and rose petals? Just think of the photos capturing that precious moment! (With no rice or paper left behind.) 

It’s no surprise that there are an abundance of sustainable alternatives for your wedding day, so if this is one of your priorities, you are in luck! Give yourself grace as you choose what works best for yourself and your soon-to-be husband or wife, and don’t forget to keep our earth in mind as you plan for the perfect day. Wishing you all a happy and eco-friendly wedding-prep!