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

SEPTA cuts are here, & Solar For Schools grants

Catch up on the latest sustainability news - with lots of SEPTA info:  First week…

22 hours ago

What to know before you buy a hermit crab at the Jersey Shore

Hermit crabs aren’t beach souvenirs. They are exotic creatures that require lots of care and…

2 days ago

Eco Explainer: What are Green Building Certifications?

Unsure what those building plaques mean? Breaking down LEED, Passive House, Living Building Challenge, and…

3 days ago

Philly’s new big cats, PGW rate hike reduction, watershed survey & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news:  Philadelphia Zoo welcomes two feline arrivals. Rory, a…

1 week ago

Circle Compost and Rabbit Recycling unite to make it easier to go zero waste in Philly

New bundled service offers residents discounted composting and recycling options to keep waste out of…

1 week ago

Controversial SEPTA funding, heat adaptation, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: PA lawmakers propose controversial funding structure for SEPTA.…

2 weeks ago