10 Easy Ways to Incorporate Eco-Friendly Practices into Your Wedding Planning

Photography by Emma Peterson Photography

Weddings are one of life’s most special occasions, but they can also be a big source of waste. From floral arrangements to single-use decor, the environmental impact can really add up. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice style for sustainability. With these 10 simple tips, you can plan a wedding that’s just as good for the planet as it is for your big day.

1. Go Digital with Invitations

Skip the paper invites and go digital! Not only does this cut down on waste, but it’s also a time-saver. You can send out online invitations and even create a wedding website where guests can RSVP, get event details, and view your registry.

If you’re not ready to fully embrace digital, look for eco-friendly paper options like recycled or plantable seed paper. That way, your invites can grow into something beautiful long after the wedding.

2. Pick Local, Seasonal Flowers

Photos provided by Anemone, Photography by Jaclyn Simpson

Flowers are a wedding must-have, but that doesn’t mean they have to come at the cost of the environment. Choose flowers that are in season and grown locally. This cuts down on the carbon footprint from transportation and bonus, they’re usually cheaper too. Support a local florist, and you’ll be supporting your community at the same time!

Look for eco-friendly florists who prioritize eco-friendly practices in their business, if you are looking for a sustainable wedding florist in Chicago check out: Flowers by Stem, The Roof Crop, Anemone, EcoWilde, Flossy Floral, and the Jade Vine! You can learn more about our Green Wedding Alliance-approved vendors here.

3. Rent Your Décor

Photo by Arcana Vintage Rentals, Photography by Bassos Photography

Instead of buying new decorations that will be used once and forgotten, why not rent them? From centerpieces to candleholders, renting items is a great way to reduce waste and still get the look you love. Rental companies like Arcana Vintage Rentals, and Anew Vintage Rentals, offer high-quality, sustainable options that can be used over and over.

You can also give vintage a try—mismatched vases and antique furniture have tons of personality and are much more eco-friendly than brand-new items. Plus, it’s a fun way to add charm to your wedding day!

4. Say No to Plastic Tableware

Photos by Catering by Michaels

We’ve all seen those wedding receptions with heaps of plastic plates, cups, and cutlery—and let’s be honest, they don’t feel very special. Instead, choose reusable options like glassware or metal flatware, or if you really need something disposable, go for compostable alternatives made from bamboo or sugarcane.

It’s a small change that makes a big difference in cutting down single-use plastics.

5. Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors

Wedding favors don’t have to be wasteful. Go for edible gifts like locally-made jam, honey, or homemade treats (Katherine Anne Confections is a great option if you’re in Chicago!) that guests can enjoy and take home. Check out our blog post: Thoughtful and Sustainable Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Love (And Actually Use) for more ideas! If you want something a little more practical, reusable items like bamboo straws, tote bags, or plantable seed paper make for thoughtful, sustainable gifts.

6. Choose a Sustainable Menu

Photo provided by Catered by Design

Let’s talk food. Not only does a farm-to-table menu support local businesses, but it also uses fewer resources for transport. Focus on seasonal ingredients, and consider offering plant-based options. The environmental impact of plant-based foods is significantly lower than meat-heavy dishes, so it’s a win-win!

Make sure to check with your caterer to confirm they’re using local, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients. Sustainable caterers like Big Delicious Planet even have their own Urban Garden in Chicago, providing fresh, locally grown produce right to your wedding table!

7. Second-Hand Wedding Attire

Photo provided by Loft on Lake

We all know wedding dresses are a big-ticket item, but you don’t have to buy new. Vintage or second-hand dresses are not only a budget-friendly option, but they’re also great for the environment. You’re giving an existing dress a second life, and chances are, it’s as unique as you are.

Plus, grooms and groomsmen can rent their suits instead of buying them, reducing the number of garments that end up gathering dust after the wedding day.

8. Plan Green Transportation

If you’ve got a lot of guests coming from out of town, make transportation more sustainable by providing shuttle buses or arranging carpooling. This reduces the number of vehicles and lowers your wedding’s carbon footprint. You could even look into hybrid or electric cars for the wedding party—there are tons of eco-friendly options available now!

9. Recycle and Compost

Photo provided by The Urban Canopy

Be mindful of waste by setting up recycling and compost bins at your venue. Make sure they’re clearly labeled so guests can dispose of their waste responsibly. It’s an easy way to make sure that your wedding doesn’t contribute to landfill overload. The Urban Canopy in Chicago can supply, deliver, and set up large composting containers (which look like standard trash bins) on the day of your event, complete with compostable liners. Their team will also be there to ensure proper waste sorting, making sure everything ends up in the right place. Plus, they provide clear signage on what is and isn’t compostable, so your guests know exactly what to do. Once your event wraps up, they’ll transport the materials to their processing sites where compostable items get turned into healthy soil!

10. Donate Leftover Food and Flowers

Photo provided by Flowers by Stem

After your wedding, there’s no need to let your food and flowers go to waste. Donate any remaining food to a local shelter or food bank, and donate your flowers to hospitals or nursing homes. Organizations like Flowers by Stem make it simple to coordinate flower donations.

Planning an eco-friendly wedding doesn’t mean giving up on what matters most to you. With a bit of effort, you can make sustainable choices that lower your environmental impact and make a real difference. Your guests will respect your commitment to the planet, and you’ll feel even better about celebrating your big day. Make sure to use the Green Wedding Alliance website as your guide during the wedding planning process, and you’ll be sure to host the sustainable wedding of your dreams!