Green Weddings: How to Organize Your Eco-Friendly Wedding

Green weddings are a rising trend for eco-conscious couples around the globe, and there are plenty of ways to do your part as you make your final plans. Many couples choose to coordinate an eco-friendly wedding to honor their social and environmental lifestyle; a green wedding can be as elegant and modern as the standard settings, and may even encourage the wedding party to tune into some of today's top environmental issues.

A green wedding can give you the opportunity to explore a variety of organic vendors and options to make yours a signature event. From a gourmet vegetarian menu, to earth-friendly accessories and decorations, here are some valuable tips on organizing your very own eco-friendly wedding:

1. Promote your eco-friendly awareness in the invitation. Highlight how the wedding theme and design are going to be unique, and increase guest's interest in learning more by providing details of how you are coordinating the affair. Mentioning that all wedding gifts will receive a matching donation to a specific charity, for example, might encourage more donations as part of your wedding gift program.

2. Select an organic menu. This doesn't have to be completely vegetarian, although there will be as strong emphasis on local produce; fruits and vegetables in season, along with farm-friendly meat and cheeses can offer a variety of gourmet food options for your entire wedding party.

3. Insist on sustainable fabrics and materials for your decorations and apparel. You'll find plenty of organic cottons and hemp goods online; there are also multiple charity organizations that allow you to 'recycle' the wedding dress by renting or purchasing a previously worn dress instead. Try sites such as http://bridalgarden.org for some ideas on what's available.

4. Choose pesticide-free wedding flowers. Seek out locally grown and seasonal flowers as much as possible. You can also look for wildflower bouquets from local farmers and other outlets in your city or neighborhood. Or, try a miniature potted plant as a wedding favor.

5. Create unique decorations. Dried, organic flowers can also add some fresh options to table décor and customized arrangements. Dried Flower Direct is a great resource for finding some fresh organic herbs and bouquets, grown in a farm in the Finger Lakes region of New York.

6. Hold the ceremony at an organic garden. Choose a botanical garden, nature preserve, or another naturally beautiful setting for your exchange of vows. The Organic Trade Association website is a great resource for tracking down a garden in your local area.

7. Hand out organic chocolates. You'll find plenty of organic options for wedding favors and desserts. Gourmet Belgian chocolate, dark organic combinations and a variety of signature chocolatiers that specialize in organic ingredients can offer the perfect finishing touch for your organic wedding.

8. Use eco-friendly promotional products. Environmental promotion companies such as Signature Marketing offer a range of recycled products including cards, key chains, picture frames, and coasters. These can be imprinted with your wedding date and are a great addition for your celebration.

An eco-friendly wedding can be the perfect way to honor your personal values and commitment to Mother Earth. These are just eight tips for planning yours!