TOP LEFT:
ECO-MAIL
Using recyled paper in
invitations can go a long
way for the planet.
PHOTO FROM
MAX PIXEL
TOP RIGHT:
MODEST
DECOR
Keeping table settings
simple will help cut
down on waste.
PHOTO FROM
PXHERE
BOTTOM LEFT:
THE RINGS
Consider reusing a
family heirloom ring
instead of buying new.
PHOTO BY
MICHAEL MORSE
BOTTOM RIGHT:
THANK
YOUS
Provide edible treats in
reusable bags as a thank
you for parting guests.
PHOTO FROM
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Fret not, spouses-to-be: it isn’t very difficult to incorporate
a few eco-friendly options into your wedding as long as you
make it an active part of the planning process. With a little
added care you can make sure that the happiest day of your
lives is also a pretty terrific day for the environment as well.
Here are a few ways to get you started on a more eco-friendly
wedding that in some cases may even save you a few bucks.
WAIT A MINUTE, MR. POSTMAN
The first time most of your wedding guests will learn
anything about your big day is when they get their invite.
From the “Save the Date” to the thank you card, and
especially the invitation itself, you are looking at quite a bit of
paper that goes into notifying your loved ones.
Why not try digitizing part—if not all—of the invitation
process? So much of what we do in the world has gone paperless
and now your invites can as well.
Start by setting up a wedding website. Items like save-thedates
and RSVPs can all be done online, even if you decide you
still want to do paper invitations, and you’re probably more likely
to have everyone’s email addresses than physical addresses.
Digital invitations can also help you stay more organized as
emailed responses can be sorted into folders that can stay readily
available on your laptop or phone. Also, think of all the money
you will save on not having to buy return envelopes and stamps.
If you do opt to send hardcopy invitations, try finding a local
printer who utilizes recycled paper and eco-friendly inks.
THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME
One of the ways to up the eco-friendly points for your
wedding is by picking a venue with the environment
in mind. We are lucky enough to live in one of the
most beautiful parts of the planet so why go somewhere
else? Destination weddings sound pretty exotic but think of
all the extra vehicles you are putting on the road and in the
air to get you and all of your guests there.
Between Florida’s amazing beaches, parks, museums
and gardens, what more could you ask for in a wedding
venue? Selecting an outdoor venue will also allow you to
save on using too much electricity during the ceremony and
reception. In addition, it will require minimal decorations—
saving you time, money and letting you use the natural
beauty of the planet you are trying to save. For that added
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