It’s no secret that weddings are not environmentally friendly. From the thousands of airline miles required to gather far-flung friends and family to single-use wedding attire to exotic floral décor and imported food and drink, the carbon footprint for even a modest event can be significant. But we submit that celebrating love is perhaps more important now than ever. As such, we’ve gathered three ideas for planning a carbon-conscious green wedding that doesn’t sacrifice style.
AVOID BALLOON INSTALLATIONS, FLOATING LANTERNS AND SPARKLERS
While balloon installations are having a moment, balloons take up to two years to degrade in a landfill and are dangerous to children and animals alike. A similar sentiment goes for fireworks, floating lanterns and sparklers, especially considering how high the fire danger is in Utah during the summer and fall. Instead, you can create festivity for your guests with a laser light show or biodegradable confetti to toss during your final exit from the reception.
USE POTTED PLANTS AS DECOR
Many exotic flowers travel thousands of miles from around the world before landing in a wedding centerpiece. Intermountain Plant Works offers sustainable and architecturally stunning potted trees, topiaries and succulents for event rental, along with design services. Another option is choosing a florist that, when possible, sources its blooms locally, like Native Flower Company, which also composts 100% of its post-event green waste.
REGISTER FOR CASH OR A PHILANTHROPY
Many couples are delaying saying “I do” until well after they’ve set up a household together, negating the practicality of registering for items like linens, kitchen appliances and dishes. Cash registries like blueprint.com allow guests to give couples funds toward a home, the honeymoon or the actual wedding. Other couples go the completely altruistic route by creating a registry through thegoodbeginning.com, allowing guests to donate to a cause or nonprofit in the couple’s name.
You can find more green wedding inspiration here!
