How to Create an Eco-Friendly Wedding Reception

Do you and your fiancée wish to create an Eco-friendly wedding reception that reflects your love and honor for one another, while showing respect for the preservation of Mother Nature? If so, then you’ll love these environmentally mindful ideas to help you create the perfect reception for you and your guests.

Choose an Earth-Conscious Venue

If you want to visit with your guests with an outdoor wedding and reception, choose an event space that will use a portion of the fees for environmental purposes. Many botanical gardens and arboretums have such policies. For indoor rehearsal venues, consider exploring locations such as cultural organizations or hotels with green policies. Consider holding the wedding and the rehearsal in the same place to avoid extra driving for guests.

Recyclable Décor

When it comes to table cloths, chair covers, and napkins choose a linen company with green practices. Consider using recyclable centerpieces like potted plants that guests can take home to represent your beginning and growth as a couple. Often, plant nurseries will offer discounts for ‘bulk’ purchases, so use the same vendor for your floral and plant decorations. If real flowers are utilized, donate them to a local hospital or nursing home afterwards.

Food for Thought

Hire a caterer that supports buying locally grown, farm-raised organic foods at community markets when possible. Encourage your catering planner to include fair trade coffees and/or libations on the menu. Leftover food can be sent to a nearby soup kitchen or homeless shelter while you are whisked away for your honeymoon.

Reduce Cost and Waste with Digital Photography

The convenience and environmentally conscious nature of digital photography eliminates the need to print every single photo. This reduces waste and the use of chemicals required to print photographs. Hire a digital photographer that offers digital technology and offers online access to your wedding and reception photos. You’ll spend less money, and you can choose the ones you want to print and those you want to share with guests online.

Guest Gifts from Gaia

As your guests depart, leave a little gift from Mother Nature on a table for them to take home. One of the most appreciated, affordable, and natural reception gifts are premium essential oils such as those offered by dōTERRA. This company follows the strictest protocols and offers only high quality products. Choose a scent you love, or put out a variety of these precious oils and let your guest choose a favorite.

However you choose to make your special day Eco-friendly, you can’t go wrong with these easy to implement Earth conscious rehearsal tips.