While trying to find interesting articles to keep eco-friendly couples in the know I came across an excellent article on Brides.com. Check here for the original article.
They give a year long time line on wedding preparations.
12 months
- Select and reserve your ceremony and reception sites. If you are celebrating your wedding outdoors, look into tent rentals.
- Choose and book an officiant who will work an eco-friendly message into your wedding ceremony.
- Meet with florists who work with local, organic farms.
- Meet with caterers and choose one who is knowledgeable about local and organic fare, and who is willing to provide vegetarian options.
- Register for gifts at housewares shops that focus on sustainable design.
10 months
- Shop for a vintage dress, one made from natural fibers, like hemp-silk, or find a simple gown that can be altered, accessorized and worn again.
- Choose a florist and pick out bouquets and arrangements made with local, seasonal flowers.
- Plan your honeymoon at an eco-resort.
- Meet with organic bakers to discuss your wedding cake.
- Start researching wedding favors, even if you’re planning on giving fruit or plant items that will be purchased right before the wedding.
6 months
- Save paper by sending save-the-date announcements via e-mail or by calling out of town guests.
- Start planning your rehearsal dinner, and if it’s going to be a picnic, start researching disposable dishes and flatware that’s biodegradable.
- Choose wedding cosmetics that are cruelty-free and made from organic ingredients.
- Select an organic baker and order your wedding cake.
- Arrange wedding transportation, and consider using a shuttle bus to bring guests from the ceremony to the reception.
- Order 100 percent recycled stationery for programs and invitations.
- Purchase wedding rings made from recycled metals or wood.
3 months
- Discuss your wedding menu with your caterer.
- Meet with your officiant and discuss all the earth-friendly aspects of your wedding so that these ideas can be shared during ceremony.
- Mail your wedding invitations.
- Decide what your guests will be throwing instead of rice, which can be harmful to birds—wildflower seeds, flower petals or bubbles are better options.
1 month
- Write and print your wedding program on 100 percent recycled paper.
- Choose thank-you cards made of recycled paper and begin to write them as you receive wedding gifts.
2–7 days
- Choose a member of the wedding party to distribute the wildflower seeds, flower petals or bubbles that guests will be throwing instead of rice after the ceremony.
- Choose a family member or friend to collect the leftover wedding programs and recycle them.
