Our lovely team here at the Wedding Collective knows that our community of devoted readers, and engaged couples planning their wedding, are diverse in their interests, ages, passions, and ways of life. But today, we want to hone in on a topic that can appeal to everyone. AND, most especially, to those who are already making moves to plan a wedding with the health of the planet in mind.
In recent years, the concept of an eco-friendly wedding has gained much warranted momentum, as couples recognize the environmental impact of traditional weddings. From single-use decor to food waste and excessive travel, there are plenty of ways you can make your wedding appeal more to the environment.
Plus, the idea of creating a memorable day while reducing waste resonates with couples who want a meaningful celebration without the ecological footprint. Many find that choosing sustainable options adds even more significance to their day, as each decision — from locally sourced flowers to eco-conscious attire— reflects their values and helps make a positive and tangible difference.
So, here we are, with some helpful tips and creative ideas to plan that eco-friendly wedding that aligns with Colorado’s natural beauty and pristine environmental values!
1. Consider an Eco-Conscious Venue
If you hadn’t already noticed, Colorado is BREATHTAKING. And is certainly known for its gorgeous outdoor wedding venues, too! By hosting your wedding in a natural setting, you can often reduce energy consumption that you may otherwise use by having an indoor event. Keep your eyes pealed for wedding venues committed to sustainable practices, such as those that recycle waste or even have solar power.
Consider unique options like botanical gardens, farms, or mountain lodges that prioritize environmental stewardship that align with a low-impact wedding celebration!
2.Opt for Digital Invitations
It’s nearly 2025! Have you ever considered going digital with your wedding invitations?! Not only does this reduce paper waste, it also lowers carbon emissions from delivery. For those of you that prefer printed invitations, consider using recycled paper or homemade paper. Better yet, print your wedding invitations on seed paper so that your guests can plant afterwards!
3. Select an Eco-Friendly Dress and Attire
Now, you might be thinking, how does one choose eco-friendly dress or attire? Well, let us tell you, it’s a wonderful way to reduce your environmental footprint! Purchasing a second hand wedding dress or investing in sustainable designers who use ethically sourced or recycled materials could actually make a tangible difference.
For example, Colorado’s very own Corner of Sunshine specializes in creating sustainable designs for bridal and resort-wear collections. They use ethically sources materials and have an exceptional talent for making beautiful wedding dresses and attire!
4. Source Local and Seasonal Flowers
Ask your local wedding florists where they get their flowers and what they might contribute to the environment. Many flower farms in the state use organic practices like reducing pesticides or water waste. You can even consider choosing potted plants, succulents, or dried floral arrangements to reduce waste. AND, regardless of what you choose for your wedding flowers, consider donating or repurposing them.
Lucky for Colorado, there is a wonderful local wedding florist (Ivory Lane) who offers faux floral rentals that range from bouquets to wedding arches. Ivory Lane, located in Aurora, Denver, use 3D printing to make their flowers look AND feel real, while offering engaged couples the opportunity to reduce waste. And trust us; these flowers might be even more beautiful than real ones.
5. Embrace Zero-Waste Catering
Food waste isn’t talked about enough, and is a major environmental challenge in the wedding industry. But, with careful planning, your wedding meal and dessert can be both delicious and waste-free. Talk with your wedding caterer about how you can avoid waste.
Colorado is also home to many farm-to-table wedding caterers that work with local farmers. This not only ensures the support of Colorado’s agricultural community, but also reduces the carbon footprint!
