The world is increasingly becoming conscious of the environmental impact of our actions and more couples are seeking ways to make their special day not only memorable but also sustainable and eco-friendly.
A wedding is a joyous celebration of love, and incorporating eco-friendly practices during the event can help reduce its carbon footprint and promote environmental responsibility.
Fortunately, many venues around the world are stepping up and are supporting ways to make weddings more earth-friendly. Resorts like Acre Baja in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico are not only luxury wedding weekend destinations, they are also natural sanctuaries and organic farms that make it easy for couples to plan a sustainable and eco-friendly wedding.
On that note, here are ten tips for planning an environmentally friendly wedding, to ensure that your big day leaves a positive impact on the planet.
Choose a Green Venue
Selecting an eco-conscious venue is the first step in planning a sustainable wedding. Look for venues like Acre Cabo for example. Eco-friendly resorts prioritize sustainability, are nature-centered and have organic catering options.
Alternatively, outdoor locations like parks, gardens, or beaches can be excellent choices, as they often require fewer artificial resources and offer natural beauty.
Eco-Friendly Invitations
Forget about traditional paper invitations and opt for digital alternatives. Send e-invites or create a wedding website where guests can RSVP and find all necessary information. If physical invitations are necessary, consider using recycled paper or plantable seed paper, which guests can sow to grow beautiful flowers.
Mindful Food and Drinks
Work with a caterer that emphasizes locally-sourced, organic, and seasonal ingredients. Avoid excessive food waste by accurately estimating guest numbers and donating any leftovers to food banks or composting them responsibly. Acer Baja for example, has a working organic farm where you can source mindful food for your guests.
You can also consider serving vegetarian or vegan dishes, as animal agriculture has a significant environmental impact.
Sustainable Decorations
Decorate your wedding venue with environmentally-friendly materials. Use reusable, second-hand, or rented decorations to minimize waste. Choose biodegradable confetti or flowers for the toss, and consider repurposing ceremony decor for the reception to further reduce environmental impact.
Eco-Chic Attire
Opt for sustainable and ethically-made attire for both the wedding party and guests. Look for wedding dresses made from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo, and consider renting formal wear instead of buying new.
Eco-Friendly Rings
Selecting eco-friendly wedding rings can make a significant difference. Choose rings made from recycled metals or opt for lab-grown diamonds and other gemstones. Vintage or family heirloom rings also add sentimental value while being environmentally conscious.
Renewable Energy and Lighting
Power your wedding with renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, where possible. Use energy-efficient LED lighting to minimize energy consumption. Candlelight can also create a romantic ambiance while reducing the need for electric lighting.
Carbon Offsetting
Despite your best efforts, some carbon emissions may still be unavoidable. Consider partnering with an organization that specializes in carbon offsetting. By investing in eco-friendly projects such as reforestation or renewable energy initiatives, you can balance out the carbon footprint of your wedding.
You can find out more about carbon offsetting through research which in turn will help you find a good partner for your event.
Eco-Friendly Favors
Show appreciation to your guests with eco-friendly wedding favors. Give gifts that promote sustainability, such as potted plants, reusable water bottles, or handmade, organic soaps. Avoid plastic or single-use items that contribute to environmental pollution.
Donate to Environmental Causes
Instead of traditional wedding gifts, encourage guests to donate to environmental charities or causes that are close to your hearts. This act of generosity will not only make a positive impact on the planet but also aligns with the spirit of love and compassion.
Wrap-up
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion to celebrate love, unity, and commitment. By incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly practices into your wedding planning, you can make a positive contribution to the environment and inspire others to do the same.
Remember, small but collective actions can make a big difference and your wedding can serve as hope and inspiration for a greener and more eco-conscious future.
