The spectrum of green weddings ranges from fashion-forward eco-couture events with an intentionally small guest list and seasonal localvore ingredients to casual, tented affairs with DIY details and a vegan meal option, but you’ll find many shades of green in between.
No matter what shade of green suits you every couple could use a few good eco-friendly wedding tips. When planning your Vermont wedding I think you should try to not only reduce your negative impact on the environment, but also maximize the positive aspects of holding your wedding here by focusing on local foods and savoring the seasonal opportunities Vermont has to offer, as well as taking advantage of the many talented and capable wedding vendors throughout the state.
Here are 10 easy ways you can reduce the environmental impact of your wedding:
- Choose a “foam free florist”! The green floral foam that’s traditionally used by florists is a single use plastic that can be avoided. Request alternative design techniques to eliminate these unwanted microplastics in your wedding flowers. (We work foam free here and we teach other florists to do the same.)
- Work with the season when selecting your color palette, flowers and decor.
- Support Vermont farms and industries by incorporating local meats, cheeses, chocolates, wine, beer, maple syrup, coffees & teas, sodas and apple cider into your menu.
- Hold the ceremony and reception at same location to reduce gas consumption & pollution.
- Select lodging near the wedding location to minimize travel.
- Rent items for the big day such as centerpiece containers, china, glassware and silverware.
- Plan a sit down meal instead of a buffet to reduce food waste, extra plates, etc.
- Use soy, beeswax or palm wax candles with cotton wicks.
- Make a donation to your favorite charity as a favor for attending your wedding or in lieu of registering for gifts.
- Go “greenhouse neutral” by offsetting carbon emissions for your wedding day at carbonneutral.com.
Try at least one of these tips for your Vermont wedding to make an environmental effort.
Use 5-7 of these tips and your dedication to the green movement starts to pick up momentum.
Incorporate 8-10 tips into your planning and your eco-chic efforts will be duly noted!
