Categories: Lifestyle

Green Weddings: How to Green the Party (aka the Reception)

My beautiful Nana getting down at our wedding

Brides and Grooms-to-be: we’ve discussed enviro-friendly tips for the ceremony. Now it’s time to talk about the par-tay.

Here’s some ways you can lessen the environmental impact of what may be the biggest bash of your life:

Flowers, candles, decor: Choosing a local florist, along with locally sourced flowers can cut down on emissions without compromising style.

For something as innocent sounding as centerpieces some brides and grooms can become overwhelmed with the abundance of options. When in doubt – go simple, sometimes less is more – especially if you’d like a sustainable wedding. You don’t need a huge mess of flowers , a simple bouquet in a reusable glass vessel is lovely.

Another option is paper flowers! There’s more and more varieties available, or if you’re crafty you can DIY.

When it comes to candles opt for soy made from nontoxic biodegradable soy wax. Beeswax candles are another option.

It’s tempting to go crazy with additional touches and decor but try to restrain yourself a bit.  In my experience what people tend to remember from weddings is the company, the music and well, the cocktails. But most guests don’t pay the flowers all that much mind.

Vendors: Between a photographer, band or DJ, caterer, hair stylist and so on there’s many players involved in the big day. Again, the key word here is local. Whenever possible choosing a vendor in the area can amp up your wedding’s green factor.  You’ll cut down on travel emissions such as gas and will likely save money as most out-of-town companies charge a hefty travel fee.

Wedding favors: So you want to give guests something nice while making a sustainable choice?

A few ideas:

The bar and menu: Here’s the rundown on how to go green with spirits and food.

Happy wedding season all!

 

 

Beth Funari

Beth is a Health and Wellness expert who believes sustainability goes hand-in-hand with self care. She’s the girl whipping up kombucha cocktails at parties, and extolling the benefits of canning vegetables to anyone who will listen.

Recent Posts

Rally Against Rate Hikes, Free ‘How City Council Works’ Training, Native Plants Guide & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: 25 Philly-Area Solar for Schools grants awarded. Lawmakers…

6 days ago

How to match your dollars with your values: Invest in less plastic, not fossil fuels.

Green Century has helped investors and businesses support the planet, not polluters, for over 30…

7 days ago

Can a greener Philly reduce crime?

In a bid to improve public safety, quality of life initiatives are bringing brighter lights…

1 week ago

Ride of Silence, Brownfields Cleanup, Solar in Schools, & More

Catch up on this week's sustainability news: New public orchard and gateway garden at Penn…

2 weeks ago

Sustainability with substance: How local green entrepreneurs strive for success

Consumers want authentic sustainability from suppliers. Without flashy funding or shortcuts, here's how these local…

2 weeks ago

Eco-Explainer: SEPTA is in a Funding Crisis. What’s the deadline to save it?

The transit agency may look drastically different if Harrisburg doesn’t act. Here are the key…

2 weeks ago