Green Weddings
By Sally Manglicmot, creator of Wedding’s a Breeze Wedding Planning Products.

When we say “green wedding”, we are not talking about the color of your napkins or ribbons at the reception--although you can have green as your color theme. What we mean by a “green wedding” is when the Bride and Groom make a conscious effort towards earth-friendly decisions.  It is a popular mind-set.  Brides are becoming more eco-friendly about their buying patterns, and their method of discarding goods.

How does a Bride-to-Be start the “earth-friendly” effort towards having a “green wedding”?

The methods are numerous.  But first, I want to point out that Brides and Grooms that don’t have to feel any guilt about not planning a “green wedding”.  But if you are now thinking about taking even small steps, they are appreciated by green enthusiasts everywhere.  Now I have to tell you that making eco-friendly choices is contagious—and that’s a good thing.

There are three basic rules, or guidelines, so to speak, to being “green”:

• First, is to do no harm – to the earth or other beings or things.

• Second, is to patronize earth-friendly vendors of goods and services (buy locally)

• Third, find a way to reuse products, or use recycled products, or recycle after you are finished with products. 

In summary, do not harm, use earth-friendly vendors, and reuse or recycle.

There are many ways to have a green wedding. Each bride should select only the ones she feels passionate about, or makes her feel good.  Choosing “green” doesn’t necessarily mean products will cost less. 

Some of the top ways your wedding ca go green include:

• Invitations: Purchase invitations made out of recycled paper. Or, print your own invitations – note, there will be a lot of work to do in regards to designing, printing, cutting, adding ribbons, folding, etc. You can go beyond the paper invitation by going email – it sounds tacky, but electronic communication is the direction of the future.

• Guest List: Cutting down the guest list saves on emissions from too many cars at the event.

• Venue: Have the ceremony and reception at the same location --another way to cut down on wasted emissions.  If the event is in two different places, encourage carpooling. You could also hold an outdoor event which is more earth-friendly, as florescent lights are not being used and there is no wasted energy from the wattage, and no wasted air conditioning energy.

• Caterers: Hire caterers that promote that they are earth friendly in the products they use. Some may use recyclable paper products such as plates, cups and napkins; and some may advertise that they only purchase organic food.

• Serving Ware: Rent dishes and silverware instead of using commercial plastic-ware, such as Styrofoam which is not biodegradable.

• Favors: Favors given to guests should be very earth-friendly and natural, such as giving seeds to plant flowers or vegetables at home, instead of decorative boxes of candy. Instead of favors, make a gift to charity in the name of your guests, and give your guests a small note with the kind token.

• Gown: Rent a gown that has already been worn, or purchase one from a vintage shop. Remember - you only wear the dress once, unless you feel sure your daughter would want to wear it when she marries. 

• Earth-Friendly Vendors: If you are really passionate about going green, you could ensure that everything for your wedding is purchased or manufactured by a vendor who shares your feeling about caring for the earth. 

• Waste: Don’t forget to consider what happens to everything AFTER the wedding. What waste will be created from your wedding? 

Sally Manglicmot was a featured guest on Creative Celebrations Radio. Hosted by Blend Magazine editors Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, this show aired live on Sept. 19, 2008. To listen to the entire, unedited show, please click here. To Listen to Sally’s interview about ‘Green Weddings’ please Double-Click on the Play Button Below.

That is a snap shot of how to have an earth-friendly, green wedding.  Remember to take steps that are comfortable for you.