The Inspiration

When it comes to planning your dream wedding, there are plenty of details to consider from the table settings to the florals & plenty more. But have you thought about the environmental impact of your big day? According to The Green Bride Guide, the average wedding produces 400 pounds of garbage and 63 tons of carbon dioxide – all in one day!

Now we aren’t telling you to change all of the plans you may have already made but if you are interested in reducing your carbon footprint on your wedding day, continue reading for small eco-conscious changes you can make!

Choose A Venue That Prioritizes Sustainability

This styled shoot took place at SABOT Garden, a 38-acre plant museum and conservation facility that also happens to be an entertainment venue! They host regular education on ways to conserve water, plant local varieties, and much more. If you are interested in searching for a venue that is eco-conscious, it is best to ask what the venue has to offer. Ways to make your celebration leave a smaller carbon footprint:

1. 1. Do they plant native plants that are heat-tolerant, drought-resistant, and planted in a way that conserves water and allows for more natural beauty rather than having to add a lot of cut floral?
   2. Does the venue limit travel needs for your guests? Consider choosing a local venue that is close to the hotel your guests are staying at, offers bulk transportation for guests, and prioritizes energy efficiency.
   3. Does the venue prioritize its operational efficiency by being inclusive/all-inclusive and sourcing local supplies?
   4. Does the venue have a natural character to it that will allow for less décor to be brought in?

Things to Consider When Sourcing Your Florals

Lizette, the owner of From His Garden, created a minimalist floral look with greenery and pops of color to further enhance the garden’s natural lush and beauty. Here are 5 simple ways to opt for earth-friendly floral on your wedding day:

1. 1. Ask your florist if they have any eco-options/packages
   2. Work with your florist on using locally grown flowers that are in-season
   3. Use potted plants or rentals that can be given as gifts after the wedding
   4. Disposal of your floral is a whole other ballgame but two options include recycling the floral for another local wedding or donating the flowers to local care facilities, hospitals, churches, or anyone in need!
   5. Ask your florist if they use sustainable options like recycled chicken wire for their arrangements rather than foam which is single-use

Small Eco-Conscious Changes You Can Make

Jewelry:

Diamonds Direct follows a strict process called The Kimberly Process, an international system established in 2003 to monitor the trade of rough diamonds. Spearheaded by the UN, this process ensures money generated from diamond trading and manufacturing does not finance unethical working environments, war, and anti-government or rebellious movements. Each piece is clearly marked with The Kimberly Process seal.

Stationary:

Grace, with Wed with Grace, supplied us with our beautiful paperie, calligraphy, signage and even the veggies tacked to the names! Paper options can get creative. If you are looking to recycle, you can reuse old music sheets, pages from faded poem books, or other paper that would otherwise get no use. There are numerous YouTube videos on creating your own recycled paper from any paper you have around the house. All it takes is some water, a blender, a big storage tub, and a paper-making mold. We chose seeded paper because it doesn’t live to serve one purpose and get thrown away, it can now be planted in a garden and create new life. How fun!

Rentals:

Bovin Rentals supplied us with our plate, goblet, chair, and candlestick rentals. It was important to us to show that you can use antique or reusable plates, cups, utensils, and more to limit the trash after a celebration.

Music:

Music was provided by San Antonio’s very own stand-up harp player, Sonja the Harpist. This is a great option to have instead of a DJ since it requires no electricity whatsoever.