If you’re looking for easy ways to have an eco-friendly wedding (i.e a sustainable wedding!), you’re in the right place! While there are so many ways to ensure your wedding is environmentally conscious, I wanted to share a list of quick and EASY ways to do so!!! I highly encourage you to do further research, but this is a great starting point! 

1. Choose a sustainable venue and caterer

Did you know that there are tons of stunning venues out there that specialize in sustainable practices? From using solar or wind power, to serving from their own organic farm, to using profits to run the property as a nature preserve. If you hire an outside caterer, ensure they source locally! 

2. Send invites on recycled or bamboo paper

This tip may be the easiest to implement! When purchasing your save the dates and invites, select the recycled or bamboo paper option! It costs just a bit more, but is much better for the planet!! Minted has a recycled paper option and Paper Culture specializes in eco-friendly paper (they even plant a tree with every order).

3. No plastic cups – use glass or compostable 

Another easy one! If using glass for all drinks throughout the night costs too much and you must use disposable, make sure that they’re compostable and plant based! 

4. Wedding attire

Alright so this is a loaded one, but here’s a bullet point list of considerations!

Purchase a used wedding dress (or buy new and donate or sell after so it can be reused)

If one of you is wearing a suit, try to wear one you already have (or rent one!)

Pick a color scheme and have the wedding coordinate, but not match! This way they can save money by wearing something they already own or purchase something they will wear again! Many bridesmaids dresses especially never get worn again. If you have them match, ask that that they consider selling or donating them after! 

5. Jewelry 

Ask your jeweler about the origin of your diamond and do research to ensure you’re purchasing a stone that is conflict free and responsibly sourced. You could also consider getting a stone!! If color isn’t your thing, consider moissanite, a beautiful clear and sparkly gem at a fraction of the cost of a diamond!

6. Donate your leftover food and flowers after! 

Do a quick search for the city you’re getting married in to see if there are any organizations that specialize in this! Your caterer and florist (and coordinator) may also be familiar with local programs that have this mission so ask them too!

7. Become familiar with Leave No Trace 

Lastly, read up on the Leave No Trace principles! This is especially important if you’re eloping or getting married out in the wilderness. It gives specific guidance on how to keep the wild, wild. 

I hope this was helpful in your journey to plan an eco-friendly wedding!!! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who cares about the environment as much as you, send me a message!!! 

Photos by Northern California Wedding Photographer, Rachel Christopherson Photography