More than ever, I’ve been seeing interest from clients wanting to incorporate environmentally friendly elements into their wedding. Weddings do have a tendency to generate waste from leftover food to decor that will never be used again. I’m here to tell you, there are so many ways to be eco-conscious and still have everything you’re dreaming about.

Flowers

Flowers are one of the top items I see get tossed after weddings. To avoid flower trash, you can:

• Implement the “less is more” mindset. Go with arrangements like bud vases. They can pack a big punch but will use less flowers overall.

• Rent! Florists will rent out their vases so that you aren’t stuck tossing vases you’ll never use again. You can also now work with companies that actually rent plants just for the night. The Plant Library in both SF and NY is a great example.

• Double up. Can your centerpieces double as your favor? If you are purchasing the vases or plants for your decor, work with your wedding planner to arrange a giveaway as your guests exit.

Send Offs

Fun recessionals or end-of-night exits are becoming popular and make for great pictures! The problem is, not all items are good for the environment.

• Avoid confetti. While you should never used paper or plastic, even flower petals aren’t the most eco-friendly item. If the types of flowers aren’t indigenous to the area you’re in, you could be doing more harm than good.

• Bubbles! It’s interactive for guests and the pictures look super cool.

• Leaves from local trees. Collect leaves a few days ahead of time and have your guests grab a handful before the big moment.

Dishes & Cups

It’s tempting to go for paper plates and utensils to save money on rentals, but for those looking to lower the amount of waste, renting is the way to go.

• You can rent and still keep costs down! Use your glassware as an opportunity to give table assignments. Make a cute sign telling guests to keep their glass for the evening and tie their table number to the handle.

• For cocktail hour, opt for passed hors d’oeuvres and avoid plates altogether.

• If you simply can’t afford rentals, do your research and make sure you buy compostable items.

Paperless Communications

You can set your environmental impact before the big day.

• Use a program like Paperless Post to send your invites. It’s a great way to collect your guests’ information from dietary restrictions to when they’ll be arriving for your festivities!

• Create a wedding website to give your guests updates. Instead of sending a wedding suite filled with paper that guests are likely to loose, fill your site with information as you continue in your planning process.

• If you love the idea of tangible paper products, find a company that works with recycled paper or plantables. Check out WholeWed and Paper Culture.

Food

Feeding guests is definitely up there with the most important parts of your wedding.

• Talk with your caterer. Often, the type of food service (buffet vs. plated) can make a difference in how much food waste is created.

• Get to-go boxes! Maybe your guests will want a late-night snack or something to take with them to the airport the following day.

• Go local. Make sure your caterer is working with local farms and supporting local businesses.

Venues

Not all venues are created equally. Here are some ideas for eco venues in New York:

• Brooklyn Grange

• Fitzcarraldo

• Blue Hill at Stone Barns

• New York Botanic Gardens

• Wave Hill

Chances are, if you have a vision for your wedding, there is an environmentally friendly version! I’m always here to brainstorm with clients and offer alternative ideas. If you’re looking to plan your eco-friendly wedding in New York, let’s talk!