While florals help transform the look of your event, eco-conscious couples should be considerate about the way they use blooms at their wedding. Cut flowers, which inevitably will die shortly after you say “I do,” have the highest impact on the environment. Having a wedding sans florals is the best way to have a sustainable affair, but if you don’t want to forgo flowers entirely, work with your floral designer to choose locally produced and in-season florals, which cut back on the transport expenses and carbon footprint. “Whether it be florals, food, or beverages, by sourcing as much as possible from local providers, such as flower farms, it will help reduce the environmental emissions caused by shipping items from afar,” notes Ward. At the end of your event, you can even donate any extra florals or arrangements so they can get a second life.
Wedding planners also emphasize that the way florists create their designs counts. “Traditional floral foam is made from non-biodegradable materials and oftentimes may contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment,” says Ward. “Instead, forgo the foam altogether or opt to use eco-friendly foam alternatives made with sustainable and recyclable materials, like chicken wire.”
Consider Your Jewelry
While wearing heirloom jewelry or resetting vintage stones is an excellent way to cut back on the impact of your wedding attire (and increase the sentimentality of your wardrobe), you can also purchase new pieces responsibly. Lab-grown diamonds can considerably cut back on the environmental impact (and cost) of diamond pieces you may don for the day. Many top designers work exclusively with lab-grown gems or have created specific collections featuring the diamonds. Jennifer Fisher, who is about to launch a lab-grown collection, shares, “For me, the appeal of wearing lab-grown diamonds lies in the reassurance that comes from knowing their clear origin and commitment to social consciousness.”
Give Back
Photo: Olivia Pierce