GUEST BLOG BY MARY GREEN

POSTED ON JUNE 2ND, 2024

In an era when concerns about environmental consciousness are growing ever louder, your wedding stands as a testament to your love not just for each other but for the planet as well. 

The journey to saying "I do" can also be a path of sustainability, marrying the elegance of tradition with the responsibility of eco-friendliness. This guide from On A Whim Thrift is your compass to a wedding that dazzles in style while treading lightly on the earth.

Upcycling Charm Into Your Celebration

Imagine walking down the aisle surrounded by stories, each piece of decor a silent witness to love in its many forms. Upcycling isn't just about being eco-friendly; it's about injecting personality and history into your special day. From the warm glow of candles in repurposed wine bottles to seating arrangements on vintage furniture, your wedding can become a curated gallery of timeless elegance. Thrifted decorations bring with them a charm that new items simply can't replicate, offering a unique backdrop to your vows.

Choose a Pedestrian-Friendly Venue

Choosing a pedestrian-friendly and accessible wedding venue is not only convenient but also environmentally beneficial. By selecting a location that encourages guests to use public transit and walk, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with your big day. This approach supports a cleaner, more sustainable celebration. 

To begin your venue search, consider using a walk score map , which rates areas based on their walkability. This tool can help you identify the most pedestrian-friendly areas in town, making it easier to find a venue that is accessible and encourages guests to enjoy a pleasant walk or a quick public transit ride, adding to the overall charm and ease of your wedding day.

Toasting to Sustainable Dining

As you plan the culinary experiences that will delight your guests, consider the impact of every plate and fork. Bamboo plates and biodegradable utensils replace the need for single-use plastics, merging sustainability with sophistication. Reusable cloth napkins not only elevate your table setting but also signify your commitment to minimizing waste. This conscious choice in tableware proves that luxury and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand, setting a new standard for wedding feasts.

Venue Decorations

Before you rush to fill your venue with purchased decorations, explore the treasures it might already hold. Many venues offer house decorations that can add to the ambiance of your wedding at no extra cost. These elements not only save you money but also make for a greener experience. Embracing the venue's own character can enhance the authenticity and intimacy of your celebration, making it truly one-of-a-kind.

If you insist on purchasing decor, you don’t have to purchase brand new. Instead, shop online from On A Whim Thrift to add your per sonal touch and charm. You can also find great clothing, too!

Celebratory Petals and Leaves

The joyous moment when you're officially announced as partners for life is often marked by a shower of confetti. Let your celebration be adorned with natural elements like dried leaves or flower petals, ensuring that your mark on this planet is as fleeting as the moment itself. This biodegradable confetti becomes a symbol of your love's harmony with nature, leaving behind nothing but the memories of a day where every detail was thoughtfully considered.

Planet-Friendly Cleanup

Taking on the cleanup after your wedding ceremony and reception can lead to substantial savings, and it also presents an opportunity to be more environmentally conscious. By opting to do the cleanup yourself, you not only cut down on labor costs but also reduce your event’s environmental impact . To enhance this benefit, consider creating your own natural cleaners. DIY cleaning solutions, often made from everyday household ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, are not only cost-effective but also reduce the chemical impact on the environment. 

Sharing the Bounty

With hearts full of love and tables laden with food, your wedding can also be a source of comfort to those in need. By arranging to have leftover food donated to local shelters or charities, you extend the warmth and joy of your celebration beyond the confines of your venue. This act of kindness ensures that the abundance of your special day feeds more than just the souls of your guests, embodying the true spirit of communal joy and generosity.

Your wedding is a reflection of your values, a day where every detail can echo your commitment to each other and to the Earth. As you embark on this journey of love and commitment, remember that the choices you make can pave the way for a future where elegance and eco-friendliness coexist in beautiful harmony. Let your wedding be a celebration of love, not just for each other but for the world that you will walk through together.
Mary Green is a holistic health enthusiast who has experienced the benefits of the practice.

As someone who wants to help others, she hopes to use Holistic Living Today to introduce people to holistic health practices that can improve their lives.

Learn more about Mary and visit her at holisticlivingtoday.com