Blue Planet Green Events
Sierra. (2007, March 29). Retrieved on June 1, 2013 from: http://sierraclub.typepad.com/greenlife/2007/03/10_steps_to_a_g.html
This article may be a little out of date considering it was written in 2007, but I chose to use it anyway because it touches on some great points that were left out in my last current event. This just goes to show there is never a limit when it comes to alternatives while striving to reach a green wedding. Every wedding can implement a different level of eco-friendly practice, and it is up to you and your wedding planner to decide what your footprint will be. The following ten steps are all about how to plan a green wedding.
1. With this ring...
Be sure to start off on the right foot with the right ring. Be sure to avoid "Blood Diamonds" with a certifiably safe engagement ring. Whether your hubby to be finds a vintage ring, lab-created diamond, peacefully mined ring, or certified "conflict-free ring" you are safe.
2. Location, location, location
Use your venue fund allocation wisely. To be as safe and unique as possible pick a local outdoor spot. Even the way you arrive and leave the wedding makes an impact. This article suggests riding up in a horse drawn carriage or hybrid car. Blue Planet Green Events recently got some great news about on of their favorite Charleston venues, Magnolia Plantation. Because of all the work the company has done with this venue they started on-site recycling! This exciting news means that the owners and we the interns no longer have to haul all of the recycling off on our own. The fact that this one company has changed the practices of an entire venue means we are really making a positive impact.
3. Please join us
Because the invitation is one of the first impressions an engaged couple will make, make sure they are not environmentally harmful. The article suggests tree-free paper, recycled paper, and straying away from paper with harmful finishes. It is even possible to cut down on the volume of invitations by sending a single postcard or including all wedding activities at once. Also suggested, is the idea to inform the invited party of eco-friendly transportation and hotel options.
4. The final fling
Remain green throughout the entire wedding! This includes bachelor/bachelorette parties. Be sure to keep things local, as organic as possible, and low-impact.
5. Here comes the bride
There are so many alternative options when it comes to walking down the aisle in an environmentally yet beautiful wedding gown. Thanks to fabric technology in the industry, there are many fabric options that are cooperative with the sustainable theme. Or, like the other current event also suggested, go with the vintage/reused dress idea. Also, be sure to use organic makeup! The beauty is in the details.
6. Set the stage
Decor should add natural beauty to the wedding. Above all use local, decorate with things found outdoors, even be conscious of the candles you use. The article suggests beeswax candles but Lori and Toni use electric candles that take rechargeable batteries. Be sure not to throw anything out, and be sure to bring all of the flowers from the ceremony over to the reception.
7. Eat, drink, and be merry
Basing your menu on local, organic, and in-season food items is key when hosting a green wedding. Use composting, a to-go system for left overs, and be sure to stay away from disposables.
8. Lasting memories
This article suggests looking for a photographer who will keep digital proofs in order to save paper and chemicals. The couple can even create a site for all of the guests to upload their digital pictures for the entire party to enjoy.
9. 'Tis better to give...
Fun fact: there are institutes like The I Do Foundation that will give a percentage of gift purchases to a charity of your liking. Be attentive when registering, stick to specialty stores with eco-friendly items and local treasures. As a couple, you can even as for your wedding patrons to donate to a charity on your behalf instead of buying a gift.
10. Happily ever after...
Remember that going green doesn't end at the reception. This article has many suggestions for low impact honeymoon getaways. Go local "You're going to be spending a lot of time in that hotel room anyway" ;), go on ecotours while you are away, opt for a trip that is beneficial to an environmental group, they even suggest staying at a locally run Bed & Breakfast.
I hoped you enjoyed diving into this article as much as I did. As a human taking up room on this planet, I have always tried to do a little something here and there to help out the environment. Normally that included being 100% opposed to littering, recycling whenever I thought about it, and opting for paper over plastic. Now, with this new job opportunity and these new finings my outlook is ever changing. It makes me want to make changes, no matter how small, for the benefit of our planet. All being green takes is a little initiative, some attention, and little life changes. This article is great for Blue Planet Green Events. It gives more ideas and more inspiration for our upcoming weddings.
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