I Now Pronounce You……..Clean and Green

January 18th, 2010

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. Oh yeah, and something green too. You may be confused by the last addition to the traditional wedding superstition, you should definitely add it to your list of wedding to-dos. An article from the Orlando Sentinel lists several ways that weddings as well as other large functions can become more eco-friendly.

Invitations-Use invites made on recycled paper. Feeling a bit more generous toward the environment? Your best bet? Use email. No letters, no envelopes, and no stamps will be involved. It’s an overall bargain.

Flowers-Used potted flower arrangements. After the event, donate the flowers to guests, a local nursing home, or even a hospital and check off your random act of kindness for the day.

Food- Buy fresh, locally grown food. Make sure to cater to the amount of guests you are expecting and avoid buffet style to prevent guests from piling on massive heaps of food, only to dispose of it later.

Tableware- Reserve real glass, china, and cutlery instead of paper or plastic. Not only is this the more green choice but the garbage man will thank you later.

Favors- Pass out gifts that guests could actually use. One can only handle so many almonds. Think of distributing seeds that guests could plant, reusable water bottles, or canvas bags.

Location- Although it may sound exotic and fancy, avoid destination weddings or events to reduce travel. Encourage guests to carpool, and for weddings, keep the reception close to the ceremony.

Weddings and large events were traditionally overlooked as a place to implement green practices because everyone wants these events to be ‘perfect’ and ‘unforgettable’. But thinking about the large amount of resources that it takes to put together such events, adding a few eco-conscious practices will go a long way. These may be the biggest days of your life, but you don’t have to slay Mother Nature in the process.

Author: Maggie Puniewska |

Posted in Wood Conservation

I Now Pronounce You……..Clean and Green

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