I realize that Earth Day was last Wednesday, April 22. Unfortunately, I was sick with a horrible sinus infection. But, after watching and listening to everything about our wonderful world, I felt I needed to give tips on how to have a Green Wedding.
Let me backtrack. The first time I heard about Green Weddings was when I was sitting in an airport talking to a fellow traveler (from Oregon or Washington, I think). It was a number of years ago. Maybe 10 years ago. This individual commented that green weddings were popular where he lived and asked me if green was big in Mississippi.
I replied, “Yes green is a very popular color in weddings, especially lime green for Spring and Summer weddings, even into early fall with the oranges and yellows and reds. I further added that hunter green was better for late fall and winter weddings.
This person was speechless. And I was so proud of my prowess about Green Weddings and how complimentary a color green is with other colors. I was sitting up proud and straight and maybe a little smug.
The second time I heard about Green Weddings was about eight months later from one of my graphic designers. We were looking at covers for our next publication plus paper stock finishes and he mentioned that we should go more green. I said, “You’re right!” Let’s go with this cover; it has lots of green and it will complement the bags we’re giving away at our next bridal show. Imagine all the brides carrying one of these bags. It will be a sea of green.
Once again, someone was left speechless over my enthusiasm for green, the color. And once again, I was standing proud over my insight to have green bags and a green cover for Premier Bride of Mississippi.
I’m proud to say I now know that Green Weddings are more than color; in fact, on our website – www.premierbridems.com – we have a link to an article that specifically talks about Weddings Going Green and how to plan a more eco-friendly wedding . And that’s what today’s weekly tip is about: How weddings are becoming more eco-friendly.
Every bride and groom wants a joy-filled wedding celebration that shows their love for each other. Some take it a step further and want to also show their love of the planet at the same time
Not only do these couples say “I Do!” They say, “I Care!” They want to protect our planet by having a green wedding. How can someone have a Green Wedding or a more Eco-Friendly wedding?
First, choose a location that’s close to where most of your guest’s live. This is an obvious, simple and effective way to limit unnecessary transportation. And you can have both the ceremony and the reception at the same venue. That means even less travel and less fuel use.
Some brides seek out sites that have made “going green” a priority and are pro-active about reducing energy use and waste.
Brides can hold their ceremony in a location that’s already dedicated to sustainability, such as parks, protected areas or museums.
Second, the food. Serve local, organic, and seasonal food. Be thoughtful of your guests and include a vegetarian or vegan option. Is the fish wild or farm raised? Where does the food come from? Many brides avoid farm raised salmon and fresh foods shipped from foreign countries which may contain vaccines, pesticides, antibiotics and synthetic pigments…Bad!
Farm to table is so popular today and many chefs, restaurants and caterers are offering this. Check this out when booking your reception and rehearsal dinner.
Finally, share: prior to your wedding arrange to donate any left-over food to shelters serving the homeless and needy.
Third, save trees by going high-tech: Use a website or e-mail to list directories, maps, accommodations and other details about your wedding. Email is great for Save the Date.
When you do use paper (and you will), use 100% recycled and reusable cotton paper made from clothing scraps. For printing and the ink on the paper, use vegetable or soy inks. These inks use less energy to produce than standard petroleum based inks.
There’s more tips on how to have a green wedding. Tips 4-7 will be next Monday, May 4.
And check out www.premierbridems.com for more articles and information for your wedding!