Green Wedding Alliance explains why hosting a local wedding is beneficial, both from an environmental perspective as well as a logistical one. Especially in a city like Chicago, there are so many benefits to hosting a wedding locally. Some benefits include reducing CO2 emissions, working with world-class wedding vendors, the presence of iconic landmarks and impressive architecture, etc.

There are numerous ways to ensure your special day is as green as it is memorable. From collaborating with eco-conscious vendors to rethinking traditional wedding staples, every choice can reflect your commitment to the environment. Take a look a this list we’ve put together, full of Earth-friendly wedding planning tips.