When it comes to planning an eco-conscious wedding, style should never be sacrificed.
Your perfect wedding dreams are still more than possible whilst still being environmentally friendly.
With an estimated 350,000 weddings this year according to Truly, we are trying to encourage those tying the knot to consider the environmental impact of their wedding. The CO2 output from a wedding is comparable to a household’s output for one year stated by The Sustainable Wedding Alliance! Our list of potential swaps for your wedding can help reduce these figures as we do our bit to save our planet.
For many people, their wedding dress is the most important purchase for their wedding day. Whilst being expensive, wedding dresses contribute to the issues associated with fast fashion; the dress for your special day is exactly that, a one time wear. Renting your wedding dress can minimise your environmental impact.
Alternatively, see if any of your family members have their wedding dresses, whilst your Mum may have a different style to you, a seamstress may be able to make your ideal dress out of hers!
Whilst making sustainable choices be sure to keep your own unique tastes in mind. You should feel good and enjoy your special day!
Sustainable bridal accessories can also be a classy and concious choice. Whether you choose to wear a family necklace or a veil, these can be small changes to a wedding outfit that lower the cost and help the environment whilst also adding a sentimental touch.
Be sure to buy shoes you can rewear; a simple heel doesn’t need to be a one time wear – just make sure they’re comfortable!
Hiring decorations is an easy way to save money and better for the environment whilst still having all of the features you had envisaged. The pinterest board you have been building for years can be brought to life with many entertainment companies having decorations for hire ranging from light up signs to balloon arches, faux garlands, candle holders and so much more.
Elevate the look of your wedding with rented china and glassware rather than opting for disposable plates and plastic cups. We advise you to ask your venue if they are able to provide the tableware and linens to reduce wastage and also give you less things to worry about on your big day. At The Willows at the Woodmans, we provide all crockery & cutlery as part of your wedding package.
Another option could be to explore biodegradable decorations or to utilise nature as much as possible. Flowers for centrepieces may be a more expensive option but foliage can be used as a filler to surround a couple of roses. Biodegradable balloons reduce the volume of single use plastic at your wedding as well as natural confetti. The devil is in the details, as small as they may seem.
Choosing a venue that fits your aesthetic is also a beneficial, conscious decision. The Willows at the Woodmans is perfect for those who love natural tones and a rustic style.
For some newly engaged couples a themed wedding is a must! Consequently, with themed weddings sometimes guests can feel the need to purchase a new outfit specifically for the day. Choosing a theme that is broad and open to interpretation could encourage guests to rewear something they already have in their collection, minimising your weddings contribution to fast fashion.
When it comes to choosing flowers for centrepieces and the bridal bouquets, sourcing them from the UK is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint of your wedding.
Here is a list of flowers, perfect for a wedding and grown in the UK:
The wedding breakfast is a huge part of your special day and as it should be! Allowing guests the option to decline a course before the day minimises the chances of a meal being wasted. Ensure guests inform you of their meal choices and any allergies they have ahead of time so that you can advise the caterers/chef.
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