How to Communicate Sustainability Priorities with Wedding Vendors
If you are newer to the wedding planning process, we know it can feel overwhelming to find vendors, learn more about their offerings, and narrow down the list of favorites. On top of that, vetting their sustainability practices can seem like just one more chore! If hosting a sustainable wedding is a top priority for you, here are some easy ways to keep the conversations effective and painless (written by an eco-friendly wedding planner -Cygnet Events and Design).
Ed and Aileen Photography | Loren Weddings
Tip 1 - Work with vendors who already incorporate sustainable practices.
It’s been said before, but one of the easiest ways to prioritize sustainability in your wedding is working with eco-friendly wedding vendors. You’ll know they’re already doing things the way you want without being asked to make any big changes, and they should be able to easily answer any specific questions you have. It takes a lot less effort to communicate about your goals if you know everyone is already on the same page.
Tip 2 - Don’t make assumptions
Even if a vendor isn’t in the Green Wedding Alliance, they might have an amazing commitment to sustainability! Ask them about what they do to keep their events green. Similarly, don’t be “greenwashed” by vendors using buzzwords unless you find out more about their day to day practices.
Tip 3 - Do a response gut check
When you ask about their sustainability practices, what is their initial response? You can get a good read on how knowledgeable and committed they are by seeing whether they get excited to tell you everything, or whether they seem to be at a loss for solid answers.
Tip 4 - Ask for recommended vendors
Your planner knows who walks the walk, especially if they’re a Green Wedding Alliance planner. They’ll know which caterers say they recycle but often don’t, which florists are diligent about composting, and which stationers minimize waste and maximize sustainable materials.
Hannah Conti Photography | Indigo Lace Photography | Melody Joy Co | Cristina G Photography
Tip 5 - Ask for advice
As you are making decisions about things like your floral selection or your menu, ask for the best options that keep things local and sustainable. Your vendors will have the expertise to guide you. If you don’t remind them that sustainability is a top priority, they may have different priorities for making recommendations, like finding things at a specific price point or color palette. You can of course find options that fit the bill all around, but you’ll want to make sure sustainability stays at top of mind.
Tip 6 - As the event approaches, create a game plan
You may have chosen a great team months ago, but now the wedding day is getting close! This takes us back to tip 2: don’t make assumptions. Remind your planner and your vendors about your goal of keeping things sustainable. Make sure catering knows about your recycling and composting goals. Make sure your florist is aligned with your plan for post-event floral reuse or disposal. The more you communicate proactively when there is time to get aligned on the plan, the less likely it is that something will slip through the cracks or result in missed expectations.
Tip 7 - Let go
You’ve secured the team, had the final walkthrough, finalized the decor and the menu, and sent out all the details. Your job is done! Remind yourself that it is okay to let go and trust the professionals. As long as you’ve communicated well, everything will fall into place with your vendors on the day. Relax and let it go!
Planning a sustainable wedding may feel daunting at first, but with the right approach, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By working with eco-conscious vendors, asking the right questions, and keeping open communication, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a celebration that aligns with your values. Remember, sustainability is a journey, not a one-size-fits-all solution—so focus on the steps that matter most to you and your partner. With thoughtful planning and trust in your team, you can create a wedding that’s as kind to the planet as it is memorable for your guests.
