Host a greener wedding!

Your wedding day is a perfect time to express your love and commitment to the planet  while you are celebrating  the beginning of your new life together as a couple.

Are you searching for way to have a eco-friendly, greener wedding day? Reducing the carbon footprint of a major event is not as difficult as you might think. There are many little things that you can do to make your wedding greener without sacrificing style, busting up your budget or disappointing your guests.

Here are 7 little things you can do to have a green wedding:

1. Shorten your guest list. This one step will save you money and reduce the carbon footprint of your wedding on every level. You will reduce travel and consumption on everything from food to centerpieces.
2. Buy locally grown food and  flowers. Buy in season flowers that don’t need to be shipped from afar. The very greenest option is to eliminate or reduce the use of flowers in your decorations. (I know, that’s a tough one!)
3. Pass on the paper plates, cups and disposable cutlery. If you don’t have enough Reusable dishes and cutlery are the greenest choice, but if your need to supplement, try compostable dishes  and utensils made from potato starch.
4. Look for a caterer who specializes in organic, sustainable food choices.
5. Consider sending e-invites instead of paper. Request that your  guests  reply by email. If paper is a necessity, opt for hemp or recycled invitations.
6. Register for gifts with care. Select only items you truly need and will use in the long term. Offer an option for your guests to make a donation to your favorite environmental charity instead of, or in addition to a gift.
7. Hold your ceremony and reception all in one place. This will cut back on the transportation for all of your guests and save you money transporting the bridal party!

As you plan your green wedding, consider how each and every decision you make will effect the planet. It is amazing how helpful it is to make a few simple changes to your plans. You will be so glad that you did!