Eco-friendly weddings

Esther Muchene

With the whole world keen on reducing the effects of global warming by going green, it’s about time couples considered environmentally friendly weddings locally also.

This does not mean you cannot have that perfect wedding.

So, what does an eco-friendly wedding entail?

Invitation cards

There are several options you can use to get the word out and which will cost less than ordinary invitation cards (they end up in the dust bin at one point or the other anyway).

Huge amounts of paper are used for printing programmes, invites and thank you cards among others. For those who really want to use paper, opt for recycled paper; it has a lovely texture.

Paper made from other fibres such as hemp, bamboo or pure cotton is another choice.

Instead of having say, a programme for each guest, why not have one placed at each table or one for a certain number of people to share.

For those who are tech savvy, consider sending out personalised invitation emails, animated invites using flash e-cards, e-vites or create a blog where you can even share your wedding planning details and progress with your friends and family. This is the most practical eco-friendly option.

Transport

For the retro bride who doesn’t follow the rules, you may consider walking or riding a bike to church. If not, how about hiring a big vehicle such as a limousine or van to carry large numbers of people instead of many small cars? Besides them emitting more gas, you spend more on fuel or on car hire.

As for your guests, they may consider car-pooling or hiring buses to transport them.

Another way to arrive in style is in a horse and carriage for that Victorian or fairy tale themed wedding.

All in all, limit long distance travel and if possible, have everything in one place.

Flowers

Natural flowers are a good choice but make sure they are disposed of properly. If they are still in good shape, donate them. For example, after church service, you are likely not to be using this particular flowers at this venue; find someone who will make use of them.

If you have to use artificial flowers, buy those made of material that can be recycled. Silk flowers for example are environmentally friendly and also come in many colours. Another advantage is that they can be stored for a long time before getting damaged.

The point here is to avoid wastage and maximise use of all flowers as much as possible.

Photography

Instead of printing out paper-based photographs consider digital photos that can be made into nice slide shows, short movie clips with background themed songs, animations or sound effects.

Alternatively, have them uploaded online on your blog or wedding website for your friends and family to download and share as they please, hence, minimal printing will be required.

Location

Choose a location that is committed to saving water through recycling, reducing waste through use of biogas and saving energy through use of solar panels among others.

If that is not possible, consider an outdoor location for both your ceremony and reception. This can be the beach, game park or gardens that will help carry on the theme and also give you the chance to use natural light instead of electricity. Should it go through the evening or night, incorporate candles, which will give a natural glow bringing out a romantic feel altogether.

Finally make sure all the necessary clean up takes place after the wedding.

The writer is a certified wedding planner.

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