How to plan an eco-friendly wedding?

In an era when sustainability is becoming not just an option but an imperative, the concept of eco-weddings emerges as a response to ecological changes, offering a vast array of creative ideas and solutions.

Arkadia, a leading company in wedding organization and decoration based in Belgrade, shared their expertise on eco-weddings with us. With a 17-year legacy, Arkadia brings together over 40 professionals including planners, designers, decorators, florists, graphic designers, and landscape architects, all dedicated to creating the ideal wedding concept that not only has aesthetic appeal but also serves the purpose of preserving our planet. They highlighted that eco-weddings are a global trend for 2024, providing Vogue Adria with a comprehensive guide on organizing an eco-wedding. Noted!

Eco-aware from the get-go

Begin your journey towards ecological awareness with digital invitations that, aside from reducing environmental impact by minimizing paper waste, open up creative possibilities traditional invitations cannot offer. Digital platforms feature interactive elements like maps, RSVP functions, and even personalized messages, enhancing the guest experience from the start. For those who prefer the traditional route of printed invitations, opting for recycled paper speaks volumes about a commitment to sustainability. This choice does not necessitate a compromise in terms of elegance or personalization. You can find suppliers knowledgeable about ecology to ensure that even the smallest details on your invitation align with your eco-friendly model. Materials such as soy-based inks and biodegradable embellishments are becoming more prevalent in the market.

Mindful choice of decor

Choose wedding decorations that celebrate natural beauty and biodegradability, such as fresh flowers, bamboo, and various reusable items. Cotton and pampas grass, not only are versatile plants but can also be used in their raw form for decoration countless times. This choice beautifies your celebration while minimizing ecological impact, encouraging a sustainable cycle. Incorporating living plants enhances the ambiance and air quality at the venue, with the option to plant or donate them after the celebration, contributing to the environment.

In recent years, edible flowers used in cocktails have become popular, replacing plastic umbrellas and additional artificial decorations. Energy-efficient lighting, such as LED lights or candles made from natural wax, aligns with eco-friendly themes, offering a pleasant ambiance. Recycled glass bottles, stone containers, and reused wood can become interesting vases and rustic signs, highlighting sustainability. Sourcing decorations from local artists reduces the carbon footprint, integrating your celebration into local sustainable practices.

Choosing sustainable materials

In the quest for eco-friendly weddings, every detail matters, from the couple’s attire to the table settings that adorn the celebration. Choosing organic, recycled, or sustainable materials signifies a commitment to the planet, blending style with ecology. Consider tablecloths, napkins, and even wedding attire made from organic fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and hemp, which offer sustainability without sacrificing luxury. Vintage or second-hand dresses and suits represent a unique and environmentally friendly option, reducing waste and promoting recycling. For table settings, biodegradable eating utensils and tablecloths made from natural fibers minimize environmental impact, while centerpiece decorations of potted plants or cut flowers add a vibrant, eco-conscious touch.

The virtue of renting

Reduce waste by renting equipment, furniture, and decorations. For instance, Arkadia offers a wide range of rental options that reduce the ecological footprint without compromising aesthetics. This approach not only saves resources but also promotes a circular economy, where items are reused and enjoyed by multiple clients, extending their lifecycle and reducing the need for new products. Renting becomes a powerful tool in the fight against the culture of single-use, especially in the context of events like weddings where the temptation to purchase disposable items is great.

Celebrating in the embrace of nature

Choosing an outdoor space for your wedding not only offers a stunning setting but also significantly reduces the need for artificial lighting. Natural sunlight provides a warm glow, enhancing photos with soft, natural luminance that indoor spaces struggle to replicate. As night falls, the use of solar lights or biodegradable candles can maintain the magical atmosphere without resorting to artificial light. Nature itself becomes part of your decoration. Every element, from majestic trees to vibrant flowers and panoramic views, plays a role in creating a serene and picturesque environment for your special day. However, when organizing outdoor weddings, we like to remind our clients to have a Plan B. A backup option of an indoor space where all guests can be accommodated is now essential, due to increasingly unstable atmospheric conditions in the region.

Sharing love through food donation

Adopt menus that include local, organic, and seasonal food to make your feast both delicious and eco-friendly. Choosing such ingredients not only supports local farmers but also significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with transporting food over long distances. This approach ensures that your celebration positively contributes to the local economy and reduces its ecological impact. Donating leftover food from your celebration to local institutions and charitable organizations extends the joy and abundance of your special day to those in need, strengthening the spirit of community and generosity.

Digital over physical: embracing modern memory preservation

Using digital platforms for photos and videos from the wedding is a smart way to share and preserve memories while significantly reducing the negative impact on ecology. Digital albums, as opposed to traditional physical ones, not only save paper and resources but also offer an interactive way to relive your special day. Thanks to the convenience of cloud storage, these memories can be easily accessed and shared without the need for sending or printing. Moreover, the possibility of more creative expression is enabled through the integration of video, music, and even personal narratives, creating a richer experience than static photo albums. This approach not only aligns with sustainable practices but also meets the modern preference for consuming digital content. Additionally, it ensures that your wedding memories are preserved in an environmentally friendly and adaptable format, guaranteeing that your precious moments remain accessible for future generations.

Educate others and become an inspiration

Turn your wedding into a powerful platform for educating and inspiring guests about the importance of sustainability. By including informative brochures that detail the eco-friendly aspects of your celebration or organizing interactive activities or eco-friendly gifts for guests that highlight a sustainable lifestyle, you can initiate a wave of ecologically conscious choices among your invitees. This approach not only makes your special day unforgettable but also serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging guests to incorporate sustainable practices into their lives. Consider setting up creative stations at your wedding where guests can learn about composting, recycling, or even making their own eco-friendly products. This hands-on experience provides a fun and engaging way to understand the impact of our daily choices on the environment. Additionally, showcasing a menu that highlights local and seasonal products can serve as a demonstration of how sustainable choices can be both beneficial and delicious.

In conclusion, eco-conscious weddings are a great example of how love and sustainability can go hand in hand. By modifying and adapting traditional wedding practices through an eco-conscious lens, couples can create magical moments that leave a positive legacy for future generations.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, let’s not forget that every decision, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference. And what better way to start this journey together than by saying YES to a wedding that embraces the beauty of sustainability?