Weddings are a big deal. They aren’t just any party, they’re a celebration of two people who love each other so much they want to spend the rest of their lives together. That’s quite the optimistic commitment. And often, it’s quite an affair. It’s frequently not just the ceremony but the rehearsal dinner, the welcome party, and a brunch.

It’s a celebration that deserves to not only be beautiful but that the details are meaningful. Hosting a thoughtful wedding isn’t just about the couple anymore, it includes considering the environment. However, you and I both know that making an event as beautiful as it is eco-friendly isn’t always easy. You don’t have to compromise to achieve beauty and sustainability. That’s why we’ve put together six ideas to help you accomplish a stunning event that celebrates the occasion without harming the planet. 

1. Use an Elegant, Eco-friendly Guestbook
In lieu of traditional mass produced guestbooks, consider alternatives made by small vendors with fabric or recycled materials. Platforms like Etsy offer a plethora of options such as this lovely handcrafted book made from recycled paper or this charming one made from cotton fabric. 

2. Suggest Thoughtful Attire for the Wedding Party
Ethically and mindfully crafted dresses and suits are as charming as they are sustainable. Vintage outfits are also a smart choice. Recommend shops offering sophisticated, sustainable options that can be purchased or even rented like 1stDibs, Reformation, Nuuly, and Rent the Runway. Give the bridesmaids the option of choosing their own dresses with a theme such as blue florals or shades of green, making them more likely to wear the outfit again and prevent waste.

3. Hire Small, Local Vendors 
Support smaller artisans and businesses by enlisting the services of photographers, florists, musicians, and more who are located near the venue. This typically results in less transportation emissions, higher quality offerings, and a boost to the local economy.  

4. Choose a Destination that’s Vacation Friendly
If you want to do a destination wedding, try to find a place where people can vacation and help the local economy. You could provide an online resource with information on the area for activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and pickleball. You could also fill the guests’ gift bags with items that enhance their trip such as local snacks or gift certificates to authentic restaurants and shops in the area. 

5. Host a Warm Welcome Party
Set the tone for your celebration with an enjoyable, inviting gathering. Instead of something extravagant, opt for something simple, welcoming, and authentic that fosters sustainable human connections. You could do this through ice breaker games or a random seating chart encouraging guests to meet new people. This gives guests the opportunity to get to know each other before the main event. 

6. Consider Sustainable Tableware
For napkins and linens, you could try female founded brands like Jenni Kayne, Food52, Made Trade, Raven + Lily and India Hick’s collection for Pomegranate to create a chic and sustainable tablescape. As a female founder myself, I’m proud to say maaterra was created with the mission of offering sophisticated design with sustainability, so you don’t have to compromise. You can even customize our plates to feature your names and initials for an even more unique experience. Beautifully potted herbs make textured and layered centerpieces  

At the end of the day, no amount of material items can truly reflect something as ethereal as love. But that doesn’t mean your impressive commitment to each other shouldn’t be celebrated. You deserve a wedding that not only honors your special union but also looks good doing it. And while it takes a bit more thought and effort to achieve a beautiful, unique experience that is also sustainable, it is possible and worth it. Your guests will not only appreciate your tasteful attention to detail but also your consideration of the environment. The planet will thank you too.