No 490: a Greener Wedding

In celebration of Earth Day, I thought I would bring you a few other methods for greening your wedding. You don't have to sacrifice style, and most of them are cost-saving, too!


Have your ceremony and reception at the same or nearby locations; you'll cut down on driving for everyone involved, and lower carbon emissions.

Wear a vintage or previously worn wedding gown, or rent, like Paige!

Print invitations on recycled paper that hasn't been processed with cholorine.

Use a reply postcard, which will cut out the extra envelope and cut down on postage. You can also skip the inner envelope when sending your invitation; the outer envelope is unnecessary.

Use a wedding website, which will provide guests with information about hotels, other events, etc. rather than printing each of these as a separate mailer. You'll waste less paper and spend less on postage!

Work with a caterer who uses organic foods and supports sustainable farming.

Use potted plants instead of cut flowers for centerpieces; guests can even take them home as favors at the end of the evening.

Throwing rice is classic, but everyone knows it's harmful to birds. Birdseed, which seems like an ideal alternative, can actually wreck havoc on a park, forest or even your lawn. It contains seeds which are not natural to your envioronment, so skip the birdseed unless you're getting hitched in the big city. Choose flower petals, wildflower seeds, or even bubbles instead.

Honeymoon at an eco-friendly hotel! Or better yet, enjoy a nearby city or national park.


Photo c/o Martha Stewart Weddings.