1. Decorations
Decor, decor and more decor. Weddings are the perfect opportunity to show off your style and personality through the use of color, ribbons and any other materials you might choose. One simple way to cut your use of expensive decorations that will probably just go to waste, is to consider your location. An already beautiful venue doesn't need much dressing up. But understandably, most brides are married in churches and are concerned with centerpieces and an overall theme or feel. A friend of mine recently included moss, yes real moss in her centerpieces which created a beautiful, earthy feel. Here's a link to explore more moss options: Want that Wedding
Another idea is to use any plants or flowers you have at home. By using your own plants or even any fake flower arrangements you already own, not only are you cutting down on costs but these items don't have to be thrown away after a few hours. If you don't own any potted plants, ask your family members to bring them as part of their gifts. Perhaps you want to have lilies at your wedding and if you have your family members each bring a lily plant, they can take them home to enjoy. It's a win-win! You had beautiful flowers and your family gets to take them home and they didn't die after a few short hours.
Another idea is to use biodegradable petals that are 100% natural and freeze dried. Check out the Green Bride Guide for these petals and other vintage and rustic decorations.
2. The Dress
When you really think about it, it's a little disheartening to think we spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a dress we wear once. Of course your wedding is a big day and even I went all out on this aspect of my plans but I wish I had considered a few of the options I've gathered here below for all of you.
Ever thought about borrowing from a friend or relative? Chances are almost all of us have a close friend, cousin or sister who was recently wed. Don't be worried if this individual isn't your exact size; there are plenty of seamstresses out there who are able to make adjustments. Even when buying a brand new dress most women need alterations in at least a few places. Is there any way you can borrow your mother's dress? Lots of moms hope their daughters might want to wear their dress someday. Before you jump ahead and say your mom's dress is really outdated, lots of women are jumping on this trend. According to this Wedding Chicks, less women are severely altering their mothers' gowns or picking and choosing pieces of fabric to include in their own and are deciding to wear the real thing. Definitely check out this site above and see how beautiful this bride's vintage wedding dress really is and this is definitely a viable option if you are considering a vintage theme.
If you're still thinking you want your own gown, check out eco-friendly designers like Tara Lynn Bridal. The prices are pretty standard and in some cases very affordable; the Aphrodite gown in her Goddess Collection starts at $1,200 and is made from organic materials such as cotton, hemp and silk, all eco-friendly materials. Pure Magnolia's designer Patty Nayel is also looking to design sustainable wedding dresses from traditional fabrics. Sanyukta Shrestha believes in hand-made, hand-woven, hand-embroidered and hand-spun wedding dresses. That's a lot of hands! This London based designer believes in creating beautiful and luxurious gowns based on a "love green-believe in ethics" approach. Her spring/summer 2013 Wallis in Love collection contains truly remarkable and breathtaking gowns that you can feel good about purchasing.
Of course there's more to wedding planning than decorations and the dress. I'll keep my eyes peeled for more eco-friendly trends and keep you updated.
P.S. If you're a bride and looking to plan a sustainable wedding, what tips or advice do you have?
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