Weddings are one of the most memorable and special days of a person’s life. Weddings in India are an extravagant affair. They are celebrated with great pomp and grandeur. However, in this celebration, we often do not take into account the impact it has on the environment.  From the excess waste and carbon emissions generated by travel to the use of single-use plastics and non-sustainable materials, a traditional wedding can be quite detrimental to the environment.

People are now getting aware of the harmful effects on the environment and are switching to more sustainable and eco-friendly weddings. With a little bit of planning and consideration, it’s possible to have a sustainable wedding. It is our responsibility to take care of our home planet by doing our bit. Here are some tips and ideas for creating a beautiful, eco-friendly wedding that can reduce your ecological footprint.

Choose a Green Venue

The first step you can take towards planning an eco-friendly wedding is choosing a green venue. You are going to need a venue for your wedding day, so why not go for an eco-friendly option? Look for venues that prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Outdoor locations, parks or botanical gardens that exhibit natural beauty can make a gorgeous choice for an eco-friendly wedding venue. Choosing a venue close to your locality can make a huge difference. It will help you and your guests to cut down on unnecessary travel and reduce your carbon print. Check with the venue about their plastic and waste policies. This will help you make a better choice for a sustainable venue for your wedding functions.

Sustainable Catering

Food and drink can have a major impact on the carbon footprint of your wedding. You can have a sustainable menu for your wedding day. You can go for seasonal foods and use organic ingredients. Choose a caterer who prioritises sustainable and organic ingredients sourced from local farmers. Discuss your desire to minimize food waste and opt for composting or donating excess food. You can keep vegan and vegetarian options on your menu. Moreover, instead of big buffets, you can opt for small filling bites to reduce food waste.

Wedding Invitations

Paper wedding invitations are usually thrown out by the people after attending the wedding. Imagine putting so much effort and money into the invitations only to be thrown in the dustbin eventually. Instead of going for the traditional paper invite, you can switch to digital invitations for your wedding. Digital Invitations will help you save time and minimize paper waste. You can even design them on your own with thousands of templates available online. This can save you money as well. If you still want to go with the traditional style, then choose recycled or plantable seed paper, adding a touch of eco-friendliness to your wedding.

Sustainable Decorations

There are a lot of eco-friendly decor options that you can use for your wedding. Embrace natural and locally sourced decorations, such as potted plants and flowers that can be replanted after the wedding. A nearby vendor would reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Incorporate recycled materials into centrepieces, table settings and other decorative elements. You can also use rented decor to minimize waste.

Wedding Attire

If you are putting so much effort into making your decorations and venue eco-friendly for your wedding, then why not on your outfits for the day? You can always go for wedding attire made of sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, silk, or hemp. Support designers and brands that embrace ethical and sustainable practices. You can also consider purchasing second-hand dresses or rented outfits for your wedding day.

Eco-friendly makeup products

Another way to ensure sustainability at your wedding is wisely choosing your makeup products. You can use cruelty-free or vegan makeup products for your bridal makeup. Cruelty-free makeup products are not tested on animals whereas vegan makeup products do not include animal ingredients in them.

Transportation

You can have an eco-friendly wedding by reducing as much transportation as possible. Provide a shuttle service or encourage your guests to use public transport to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Guests coming from the same locality or nearby areas can also carpool to your wedding venue. Remember to choose your wedding venue in the nearby area or near your chosen accommodation which is easily accessible too.

Wedding Favours

Instead of conventional wedding favours, choose greener substitutes. Think of making a donation on behalf of your visitors to a worthy cause or presenting little potted plants or customised seed packets that represent expansion and sustainability. You can also have a tree-planting activity as a part of your celebration.

Sustainable vendors

Make sure you pick vendors that share a commitment to sustainability. Choose professionals for other activities such as photographs and music who use energy-efficient equipment and follow eco-friendly practices. Support local businesses to reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance travel.

Mindful waste management

At your wedding location, implement waste reduction techniques like recycling bins and composting bins. Reduce single-use plastics by avoiding individually packaged goods and utilising reusable or biodegradable tableware.