The Benefits of Hosting a Local Wedding
According to a study by the sustainability consultancy Edge Impact in 2020, the average American wedding emits 57,152 kilograms of CO2. Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions primarily originate from vehicles and planes powered by internal combustion engines (gasoline or diesel engines). CO2 emissions are considered harmful primarily due to their significant role in contributing to global climate change.
Here’s why opting for a local wedding can be a positive environmental choice:
Photo provided by Sustainable Soirees. Photo by Emma Mullins Photography.
One of the most substantial contributors to carbon emissions associated with weddings is travel. By keeping the wedding local, couples and their guests can minimize the need for long-distance travel. This reduction in travel distances directly translates to lower greenhouse gas emissions, helping to mitigate climate change impacts.
Choosing local vendors, venues, and suppliers supports the local economy. Local businesses typically have smaller supply chains, which can further reduce transportation-related emissions compared to larger, more distant suppliers.
Hosting a wedding locally often means using resources that are produced regionally.This can include locally sourced and grown food and beverages, which not only supports regional agriculture but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and refrigeration. Similarly, decorations and floral arrangements sourced locally minimize the environmental impact of shipping.
Living close to a world-class city like Chicago makes the choice to host a local wedding even easier. Chicago-local couples can look forward to the following benefits of hosting their wedding locally:
It’s full of iconic landmarks. Between the Chicago Theater, Wrigley Field, and the Shedd Aquarium (among so many others), Chicago’s landmarks are hard to beat. They make for great photo backdrops too! Imagine capturing your wedding memories with the historic marquee of the Chicago Theater or the ivy-covered walls of Wrigley Field in the background, adding a touch of the city's rich history to your special day.
It’s got lakeside beauty. Not only is Chicago a gorgeous metropolis, but it also happens to sit on a huge, gorgeous lake - Lake Michigan. You can get the best of both worlds - skyline and nature - all in one! Lake Michigan offers breathtaking views and a serene ambiance, perfect for waterfront ceremonies or lakeside receptions. The combination of the urban skyline and natural beauty creates a unique and stunning backdrop for your wedding.
It’s full of epic venues and the cream of the crop in terms of wedding vendors. When you throw a wedding or event in a big city like Chicago, there is no shortage of talented and professional vendors. From top-notch photographers and florists to exceptional event planners and caterers, Chicago's wedding industry is bustling with experts who can bring your vision to life. The city's diverse venues, ranging from luxurious hotels to charming loft spaces, offer countless options to suit any wedding style or size.
Photos provided by Lula Cafe. Photo on left: Eric Floberg. Photo on Right: Gene Yoon.
The skyline and architecture are unbeatable. It’s hard to compare Chicago’s skyline with other skylines in the US. Ours is gorgeous and full of character. Once again, perfect for photos! The city's renowned architectural gems, from the Willis Tower to the historic Tribune Tower, provide a distinctive and dramatic setting for wedding photos that will stand out in any album. The mix of modern and classic architecture ensures a visually captivating experience for you and your guests.
The food is amazing! Not only will you have no trouble finding an amazing caterer to provide the food at your wedding, but your guests will also get to experience its culinary excellence throughout the time they are in town for your event. Chicago is a culinary hub, known for its eclectic food scene that includes everything from gourmet dining to beloved local specialties like deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Treat your guests to a memorable culinary journey that highlights the best of what Chicago has to offer, ensuring your wedding is not only beautiful but also delicious.
By making conscious choices about venue, vendors, and resources, couples can celebrate their special day in a way that aligns with their values of sustainability and environmental responsibility. Ultimately, a local wedding is not just an expression of love and commitment but also a meaningful contribution to a greener and more sustainable future.