Say “I do” to a sustainable, Eco-friendly wedding

December 8, 2020 | Lauren Windle

With a little thoughtful planning and a helpful, environmentally-conscious caterer, you can have a lovely wedding without negatively impacting the earth.

“Sustainable weddings are gaining traction right now,” says Jacquie Bols, owner/operator of Jacquie’s Gourmet Catering. She adds “This absolutely delights me, since Jacquie's Gourmet Catering is all about that.”

Now more than ever, those getting married are considering the ecological impact of their nuptials long before they walk down the aisle. There are a lot of options. Sustainable weddings and wedding receptions may range in scope from up-cycled reception centerpieces to carefully planned and executed zero-waste affairs.

It all begins with the vendors the couple selects. Jacquie suggests having open and honest conversations with everyone from caterers to event destinations, florists, to rental companies – explaining your expectations.

Because you are going green doesn’t mean a sparse or tasteless affair. The reality of an eco-friendly wedding is much more chic than it sounds.

Here are some ways to begin planning:

Ask florists about things like pesticides, use of Styrofoam, and how flowers and greenery are sourced. Go local as much as possible.
Opt for compostable dinner plates over plastic.
Rent over purchase for your reception – as much as possible -- even consider renting gowns, dresses and/or tuxes.
Avoid gifting in cellophane wrappers or plastic. Choose yummy food or plant gifts instead such as miniature take-home desserts or small potted plants.
Consider donating leftover catered food to a food bank or another local organization in need.
Wedding flowers can be donated post-ceremony to hospitals or nursing homes.
Digital “Save the Date” and wedding invites are gaining in popularity and can be very chic. If you love the idea of paper invites, however, consider plantable invites with seeds embedded. Guests will love this unexpected twist.