GO GREEN! Eco-friendly Ideas For Wedding Decorations
There are several eco-friendly ideas for wedding decorations . Some are organic, recyclable, or may be able to be re-purposed. Personal expression of beliefs in a sustainable lifestyle is possible through the choices made in a wedding. From the dress to the farewell toss all can be done in an eco-friendly manner.
A natural alternative to the typical paraffin wax candles are 100% soy candles. These are available with organic cotton wicks for clean burning candles. Find a local store for these or there may be someone who makes these handmade locally. In this way the local economy is supported and the candles can be made in any shape, color or size requested.
Fresh flowers are no longer necessary for a wedding. The new silk flowers are so well made it is hard to tell they aren't real until touched. Freshness or spoiling are not a worry and they can be arranged any way dreamed up. They can be small buds or huge tropical flowers. When the reception is over these can be given to nursing homes, senior centers, homeless shelters or any place that could use the beauty but would not normally have the budget.
Each guest table needs a centerpiece and here the imagination can soar. It can match the interests of the couple or be something more formal. The glass of a vase or bowl can be recycled glass and in varying colors. Fill these with sand or stones, candles, flowers, water with gold fish swimming, whatever comes to mind. Easily renewable bamboo bowls or baskets are practical and may be used for edibles arranged in an imaginative way. Nothing has to go to waste. Ecospheres are unusual and a conversation piece. These self-sustaining worlds can then be gifted to attendants or guests.
When the bride and groom are ready to leave for their honeymoon typically rice is thrown in celebration. Instead when decorating the tables use painted or beaded bamboo boxes full of birdseed. These may be built into pyramid in the center of the table and after the birdseed has been thrown each guest has a permanent favor of the wedding.
The seating arrangements are laid out practically with the place cards and can seem to be a large unnecessary waste of paper. There is seeded paper available which eliminates the need for waste. Each person will take home their place card and plant it. It will blossom into a small wildflower garden, a reminder of that wonderful event.
Use of a favorite flowering plant or bush is a great alternative to using flowers for decorating the reception and ceremony. These may b used for both events with no waste. They can then be given to the attendants and the couple can take them home and plant them or use them in their home as a permanent living reminder of the roots of their marriage and the growth of the life they build together.
Eco-friendly wedding decorations can be purchased as there are many companies that have these options. Making these items is also an option and is definitely more economical. Each couple will decide what is best for them and fits their lifestyle and beliefs.
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