With all the traveling done by the couple and guests, all the paper—including but not limited to save-the-dates, invitations, wedding programs and gift wrap - flowers possibly imported from far away, and all the hor d’oeuvres, entrees and cake that go uneaten, weddings can stamp a pretty heavy carbon footprint. Some estimates put the average wedding’s toll at 15 tons of carbon. Compare this to the 12 to 20 tons the average North American household per year. As more and more people strive to have eco-friendly weddings, hotels and other companies are responding with wedding packages to fulfill these couples’ desires.
As part of its green wedding package, the Ritz-Carlton Charlotte coordinates a wedding that is both sophisticated and eco-friendly. The package offers table linens made from recycled materials, a large selection of locally-grown flowers and foliage, and a consultation with the Executive Chef to create an organic menu. After the ceremony, the hotel donates all unused food to a local food bank, and can, according to the couple’s wishes, replant, compost or donate the centerpieces to a local hospital or non-profit. Other Ritz-Carlton locations, such as Denver and Orlando, can create entirely organic menus for eco-conscious couples.
The hospitality company Delaware North has a GreenPath wedding program, which provides organic and sustainable catering menus, eco-friendly lighting, water-conserving fixtures, among other possibilities, at many of its properties. Its properties in the United States include the historic Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga Springs, New York, Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite in California, and the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake in Ohio.
Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley has eco-friendly choices with which couples can create their own green wedding packages. The resort offers picnic-style meals using biodegradable utensils, cups and plates, and napkins made from recyclable material, eliminating the need to wash hundreds of plates, glasses and table linens, thus saving thousands of gallons of water. Food at the reception can be all-organic and locally-grown, in addition to organic wine from the area, of course. Small venues are also beginning to offer green wedding packages. The Nonatum Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine, assists couples in planning organic menus and organic flowers and centerpieces, and also offers soy candles on all tables and live trees as wedding favors.
Even if you can’t take advantage of an eco-friendly wedding package, there are plenty of ways you can make green choices of your own in the planning process. Choose a location that’s convenient for most of the attendees. Book both the ceremony and reception at the same location to cut down on driving. You get bonus points if the place also provides lodging. If you find a green wedding package that works for you, there are steps you can take to have an even greener wedding. Purchase vintage rings and attire, and make donations to local charities or environmental organizations as party favors. Opt to print on recycled paper or go electronic. Use local vendors, especially if their products, such as food and floral arrangements, are locally made or grown. If you’re curious, you can calculate your wedding’s carbon footprint at Carbonfund.org.
According to that saying “something old, something new...” your outfit might require something blue, but there’s no need to feel blue. Incorporating green into your wedding can be easy!
