Green Wedding Ideas

Instead of renting out a back room in a restaurant, why not have an outdoor picnic instead? The guests will have just as great a time with the green reception spot, and you'll have saved money too. Plus, being outside is a nice, informal way for those who've never met to get to know each other. Ask friends to bring food (on ice in a cooler) so it's more of a pot luck picnic, and no one gets stuck providing the entire meal. There will be lots of variety and a more casual reception atmosphere.

Instead of having a destination wedding in a remote location, why not stay local? It will save your guests the expense of burning up fuel (airline or car) and allow a more relaxed atmosphere. Don't have a nice backyard? Borrow one. Many historical societies and museums will allow you to use the grounds for a minimal fee. Also check out local parks for permission to have your ceremony and reception there.

There's no reason you have to have expensive centerpieces that are just going to be thrown out. Why not use natural materials like twigs and branches? Make it a fruit basket that guests are welcome to eat or take home, and use recycled products wherever possible. Metal or glass objects make interesting focal points for a table display. You may want to bring in rocks or other natural materials for a centerpiece that's different and interesting.

It's easy to get a fountain kit that allows you to turn a glass bowl into a lovely solar powered tabletop fountain. Eco-friendly wedding decor is a great way to create natural beauty at your wedding.

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to eco-friendly wedding favors. The image here, shows plantable wedding place cards. I find these place cards particularly cute because they even read, "Please be Seeded" on them.

If you have time before your wedding, or if your guest list is on the smaller side, you can invest a little time into growing mini-potted plants. These favors can really be appreciated when they are taken home and cared for.

This favor would be doubly beneficial if your wedding happened to be on or around earth day.

Other options for green wedding favors might include natural bamboo coasters, bamboo pen favors, or even organic favor boxes. It doesn't matter which route you take, your guests will be able to continue on with an eco-friendly mentality even after your wedding, .

Who said you have to go with diamonds and platinum? There are some amazing companies out there making sustainable wooden rings that are unique and durable. Or, why not choose a man-made diamond alternative that doesn't disturb the earth in the mining of it? And there's always the option of a family heirloom. Did your aunt have a garnet ring you've loved? Is there a sapphire bracelet in the family you could have made over into rings? Re-purposing and reusing when it comes to rings is a great idea.

Think out of the traditional box for your honeymoon. There are entire sites online that provide eco travel information. Plan a trip that allows you to immerse yourself into local life. Instead of staying at a pricey hotel, why not rent tents and backpack in Nepal? Lend a hand by volunteering with the locals in Peru. Participate in marine life conservation in Costa Rica. There are hundreds of choices for eco-destinations that will say "I love you" in an eco-conscious way.

While you're on the topic of helping others, why not consider donating your leftovers? There are bound to be leftovers after the festivities. Arrange ahead of time for a local homeless shelter to pick up the overflow right after the reception. Or, designate a friend to run leftovers to neighbors after the party.

Instead of jetting off to a destination, you might save resources by visiting local attractions you've never had time to before. Every state offers free information through their Chambers of Commerce. You might discover you live near an attraction you never knew about. Instead of shelling out money for plane tickets, you could use that cash to extend your trip. Go by RV and save even more on hotel stays and restaurants.

Once you start thinking differently about your big day, you will see many ways you can have a dream wedding without harming the earth.

You'll feel proud of the good choices you made, and your guests will have had a wonderful time without ever feeling like anything was missing.