Weddings have long been traditional events, but as the world around us changes, so do a lot of those long-standing wedding traditions. People are altering the usual ways of doing things in order to incorporate their environmentally friendly lifestyles throughout their wedding. If you live a green life, you should have a green wedding and there are plenty of ways to make the event just as sustainable as everything else you do. There are plenty of do-it-yourself ways of making things green and vendors are also jumping on the green bandwagon and providing better ways of doing things. One of the options for creating a greener wedding is to use silk plants and artificial flowers instead of the traditional floral options. Not only are you able to avoid cutting and killing for your bouquets and centerpieces, but you create something that will last a lifetime. Consider sending the items home as favors or using them in your own home decor following the big event.

It used to be when the happy newlyweds fled the church or reception; people would toss rice at them. This fell out of favor when it was discovered that birds were eating the rice and damaging their digestive systems. Rice sometimes even caused death for the birds. Couples replaced rice with bird seed, offering a bird-friendly option for tossing something at the couple. Those who want to cut down on mess as much as they want to protect are wildlife can opt for blowing bubbles as the happy couples makes their way from the events. Another option is sparklers, lighting up the night sky and creating a great photo opportunity.

When creating wedding favors to share with your guests, consider options that are easy on the environment. Items like candies and cookies are a great idea because they are eaten, but be sure the wrapping is not wasteful. If you decide to give candles, choose soy wax that now comes in a variety of wedding-friendly colors. Instead of placing disposable cameras at each table, ask that guests bring their own digital cameras and create a website for photo sharing after the wedding.

There is a lot of paperwork involved in a wedding, and while you are stuck filling out your official forms, you can recycle those papers that are not important. You may want to consider sending the save the date announcements or wedding invitations online. You can also come up with better ways to distribute thank you messages. While an online thank you may not be much effort, you could send you thank you cards on recycled paper or make them yourself using materials leftover from the wedding.

Finally, consider putting together a reception menu with a nod to the environment. Choose caterers who utilize local, organic ingredients when cooking. Opt for free range chicken and grass-fed beef when serving dinner. It may be pricier, but find ways of cutting costs elsewhere. You can also find organic wines and delicious desserts that are easier on the environment than the usual choices.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter finds it simpler to buy silk plants online for decorating your home. His wife ordered artificial flowers to add to her office.

Category: Marriage
Keywords: silk plants,artificial flowers