Guide to Sustainable Wedding Place Settings & Serviceware
Photo provided by BBJ Latavola
When planning a wedding, the beauty can lie in every thoughtful detail. Among these, the place settings at the reception table can be a pivotal point of creativity. However, the trend toward sustainability is reshaping how couples approach wedding décor, encouraging them to balance beauty with environmental consciousness.
Here’s how you can design stunning, sustainable place settings for your wedding while reducing your carbon footprint:
Reusable Tableware
One of the most impactful steps toward sustainability is to choose reusable rather than disposable items. You can get creative with a mix of beautiful ceramic, porcelain, or glass plates, as well as stainless steel or wooden cutlery. Rental companies offer a wide range of options that allow you to create a refined look without waste.
For a unique touch, consider sourcing vintage or mismatched sets of plates and cutlery from local thrift shops or markets. Not only will this add charm to your place settings, but you’ll also be giving new life to items that may have otherwise been discarded. Anew Vintage Rentals is a boho furniture rental boutique, with a selection of rattan decor and tableware. Arcana Vintage Rentals offers high-quality vintage china, furniture, glassware, decor, and at accessible price points.
Sustainable Fabrics for Napkins & Tablecloths
Photo provided by BBJ Latavola
Fabric napkins and tablecloths elevate any event, and when chosen sustainably, they can make a big difference. Instead of paper napkins, use cotton, linen, or bamboo fabric. Many rental companies provide organic, sustainably sourced linens, or you could purchase reusable options that can be repurposed for home use after the wedding.
Alternatively, consider upcycling old fabric or using vintage handkerchiefs as napkins, adding a personalized and intimate touch.
If You Must Go Disposable, Choose Compostable
Photo provided by The Urban Canopy, Photography by Bowie Productions
If using disposable items, look for BPI-certified compostable alternatives. Plates made from bamboo, PLA, or sugarcane offer a chic and eco-friendly option. These materials can be collected by a local composting service such as The Urban Canopy and WasteNot. Be sure to look for the BPI certification in the product details. To maximize impact, set up composting stations at your reception with clear signage, helping guests dispose of items correctly while keeping your event sustainable!
Ditch Plastic: Go for Glass or Bamboo
Single-use plastics are a big no-no when it comes to planning a sustainable wedding. Straws, stirrers, and plastic cups may seem convenient, but they generate unnecessary waste that can easily be avoided. Instead, swap them out for eco-friendly alternatives like glassware, bamboo, or metal. Not only are these materials far kinder to the environment, but they also add a more elegant, refined look to your wedding décor.
Renting vs. Buying
Photo provided by BBJ Latavola
If you're aiming for a zero-waste wedding, renting your tableware and serviceware items like glassware, silverware, and even furniture is an excellent choice. By renting instead of purchasing new, you're reducing waste and avoiding the need for single-use products. BBJ Latavola, offers an eclectic selection of table linens, napkins, chargers, and more.