ECO-FRIENDLY WEDDING TIPS

Photo courtesy of One Summer Day

People who are planning their wedding are starting to pay attention to their carbon footprint when it comes to planning their big day. Putting together an eco-friendly ceremony and reception can be a challenge, but there are plenty of ways couples can embrace the idea of a green wedding.

ECO-FRIENDLY RINGS
There are often ethical issues that surround the mining process of metals and precious stones. Labour exploitation and controversial extraction methods are employed around the world, making conflict-free rings and stones available virtually everywhere. Couples can look into purchasing wedding rings that have labour-free gemstones or are made from recycled gold. Many jewellers know the origins of their rings and couples shouldn’t hesitate to ask questions about where they came from. There are also some companies only sell conflict-free rings.

Photo courtesy of Cliff DesPeaux Photography via Reuters

RECYCLED PAPER
Couples can create their invitations, thank-you cards, programs, and more with recycled paper. Many designers offer it as an option or only use recycled scraps to print on. Vendors can be accommodating and use only recycled paper for the wedding as well, helping lower costs and carbon footprints. To take it one step further, many couples are creating wedding websites in order to eliminate paper altogether.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Mouradian via Oh So Beautiful Paper

AN ORGANIC MENU
Though usually more expensive, organic moods are a great thing to have at a green wedding. Couples can request produce that has not been exposed to pesticides or other chemicals, and that their proteins have been raised without the use of hormones or steroids. If couples want to serve fish, they can look into vendors that offer sustainable seafood and organic fish farming. An organic menu is completely chemical free, ensuring healthy meals for wedding guests and fabulous flavours.

Photo courtesy of Julie Cahill Photography