These tips for a zero waste wedding can help you celebrate your special day, without harm to the planet or animals. And a simpler wedding is also more enjoyable, as what matters is how you felt on the day, not what you bought. See other posts on zero waste weddings (gowns, invites, rings and confetti).
Many flowers used for wreaths, confetti and plantable cards (lilies, delphiniums, wildflowers) are toxic to pets so be aware of this if furry friends are nearby. Many trees (used for celebration planting) are toxic to horses). If furry friends are nearby, only use pet-safe blooms and avoid toxic versions of petal confetti, and only send plantable cards to pet-free homes.
- Modern Weddings is a beautiful book focused on nature-inspired seasonal weddings. The secret to planning a meaningful wedding is nothing to do with budget. It’s about a celebration to reflect a couple’s core values. This book covers the stationery and the dress, seating plans, food, drink, gifts and flowers. With emphasis on natural surroundings, seasonal flowers and minimalist ceremonies.
- Rather than pay a big hotel for your wedding venue, hire the grounds of a local monastery or convent. If there only a few of you, you may consider holding the wedding say in the grounds of a farm sanctuary, as long as your big day would not negatively affect residents.
- Make your wedding gift list zero waste. Or ask for guests to donate to your favourite small charity.
- Hire a local veggie or organic caterer. Ask them to donate leftovers to local shelters or food banks.
- See why you should avoid balloons and fire lanterns, terrible for wildlife all-round.
- Instead of hiring a big band, see if there are local acoustic buskers or talented musicians that would be more talented and willing to sing or play.
- Floral Angels (London) donates bouquets to care homes & hospices.
- Carefully consider, if thinking of having dogs at wedding, as many don’t like the noise and crowds. Dog’s Trust has tips on whether to do this.