Green Wedding Tips and Ideas

Whether you are trying to be eco-friendly or trying to save money, a green wedding might be just the right thing for you.

Rings If you haven't purchased your rings yet, now is the time to give that some thought. Instead of heading to the local jewelers, think about other options. Maybe there are some heirloom rings in the family that can be passed down through the generations. If you don't know for sure, ask some family members. Another option is to buy a used set from someone. Look around for rings from a broken engagement or divorce. The sellers want the rings out of their lives, and usually need the money. A diamond is not a requirement for marriage. Some brides-to-be opt for no engagement ring, or maybe a less expensive stone. A modern suggestion is to get your wedding rings tattooed on. They never need to be resized, and you will never loose them.

Wedding Dress and Tux Wedding dresses can be quite costly and are usually worn only once. If you want a beautiful stylish wedding gown, check around to see if you can rent one. Other options are to look around for someone selling their gown, or to wear one previously worn by a family member. If your wedding is informal, you could choose a lovely dress that can be worn to other occasions. Tuxedos are usually rented. Ask for a basic tux and wear your own shoes. If you think you'll need a tux for other occasions in the future, consider buying one. Some shops will sell used tuxedos for about the same price as renting one.

Invitations There are many ways to save money and resources when it comes to invitations. If your wedding is very informal, you could send electronic invitations. I received an e-vite to a wedding and loved it. I realize that Grandma might not think it's proper, but it's your wedding and your choice. If you want to send paper invitations, consider making your own. You could use recycled paper. If you are daring enough to make your own paper, try placing some wild flower seeds in the mixture before the paper dries. Make sure your guests know that it is plantable paper so they can remember your wedding day for years to come.

Flowers Flowers can be really expensive and usually end up dead before the day is over. Although they are a beautiful addition to a wedding, there are alternatives. If you are getting married outside, choose a location that has flowers in bloom. If you are buying flowers for the brides maids, consider reusing them as centerpieces on the tables in the reception hall. Or, just keep it simple and have each person carry a single stem flower. Choose flowers that are local and in season. Consider using wild flowers.

Transportation Many people like to make a grand entrance or departure from their wedding. If you are so inclined, consider non-traditional means. If you don't own a hybrid car, you could rent one. Horses or a horse drawn carriage would be charming. You could even consider using bicycles for a memorable arrival/departure. A bicycle built for two would be something talked about and remembered forever.

Reception If you can afford it, try to use organic/locally grown food for your reception. If you are having an intimate reception, you could use real (not disposable) plates and utensils. That is out of the question for most people, so my suggestion is to use as much paper/biodegradable supplies as possible. By all means, do not use styrofoam anything. Try to think outside the box for serving dishes. Soups and cider can be served in hollowed out pumpkins, punch can be dispensed from hollowed out watermelons, and dips can be served in hollowed out tomatoes and green peppers.

Favors and Place Cards These are certainly not necessary items at all, but seem to be fashionable. You could consider combining the two and making favors with guest's name on them. Simple ideas would be a small packet of wildflower seeds or potpourri, or a small soy based candle.

Decorations Keep it simple. Use items for decorations that you already have, and/or can be used again. Potted plants or baskets of fresh fruit would make nice centerpieces.

These are just a few ideas if you are trying to "go green" for your wedding. The main thing is to try to be creative, reduce, reuse, and recycle