The Academy Awards went green in 2007, a powerful statement in response to the global concern over the depletion of our natural resources. We have adjusted our daily habits to protect our environment, and we can do the same on the most important day of our lives by taking our wedding to that next level in eco-consciousness. With such lavish splendor celebrated in one weekend, we can reduce the effect weddings have on our planet and astonishingly, change doesn’t have to be difficult; there are many shades of green. 
     Start with the setting by enjoying nature at its best. “Take it outdoors,” Amy De Luca of Green Lotus Events says. “Select a site that has a greater sensitivity to the earth and make your event more intimate and  personal through the process.” A botanical garden, a city park, a coastal retreat, all part of Mother Nature’s plan, pay homage to our environment even when we wed.
     Natural environments don’t require a lot of décor. Why spend resources to truck in outside materials when what is already there is often more beautiful than imagined? It doesn’t mean sacrificing the design, look, or feel of your event.  Sara Mossman of Sillapere Events and Environments includes pulling  materials and products from the venue surroundings “This allows the guests to partake in a deeper understanding of the setting by foraging and incorporating on-site decor elements,” she said. “Thinking in sustainable terms unleashes creativity.  With a talented designer, one can create a highly sophisticated look without sacrificing the environment.”  Large-scale does not have to mean large waste.
      If you can’t resist that little extra and must shop, shop smart. Nicole Sillapere, founder of Sillapere Events and Environments, likes to shop according to the personalities of her clients.  “Perhaps they have some collectible fetish that can be found in a flea market and used as place-card holders or napkin rings,” she said. “Branches, vases, vintage fabric, paper, old denim—anything can be given a sophisticated new lease on life with the right touch of creativity and polish.”  Another way to spend wisely is to commission or rent organic tablecloths and napkins made from natural fibers like cotton or hemp. Select centerpieces that are potted and can be taken home and planted by guests, a remembrance that will bloom for years to come. Use soy or beeswax candles (not paraffin), and replace some of your energy needs by creating the luminescent glow for romance. And it’s globally good! 
     When choosing those floral arrangements, think organic. Organic Bouquet, one of the leaders in the green wedding movement, practices sustainable farming and steers away from using toxic pesticides and agricultural waste. This practice not only protects the environment but protects your guests too—so many people are allergic to these pesticides.  Can’t find certified organic growers?  Seek out your local farmers’ markets to support your own community.  After the wedding, you can have all of your flowers delivered to a local nursing home or charity and let other people share your joy.
     Eden Rodriguez, owner of End Design is a pioneer in the green floral movement. Having designed Alicia Silverstone’s 2005 nuptials, credited with helping to bring vegan and green weddings to the mainstream, Rodriguez incorporated rosemary, mint, thyme and organic cotton into Silverstone’s bouquet and used bunches of organic lavender and herbs tied together with vintage fabrics.  For furniture, Rodriguez designed bar tops from reclaimed 200 year-old lumber and used wine barrels as bases. Cocktails were served in recycled mason jars.  Recycled tea tins were used as containers for the centerpieces.  Rodriguez suggests that all elements of the décor can be environmentally friendly. “Even using foliage that was cleared for road usage, can give you materials for green tree centerpieces and design accents—just contact local landscape companies,” she said.  For brides who are deeply committed to the cause, Rodriguez explains “Reclaimed lumber, polished with organic flax seed oil can be used to create a dance floor and table tops at the event.”  
     Once you’ve found your idyllic spot, stay there!  The road less traveled can stay that way and by cutting on travel for your guests, you will cut on fuel emissions and pollution.  Want to know how much waste your wedding is really creating on the road to happiness? Visit Native Energy’s website and calculate your wedding emissions by answering a few questions about your event.  The answer might surprise even the most eco-savvy brides-to-be.   
     Once the location is set, the invitations need to be sent. If you use paper goods, opt for 100% recycled papers or other natural fibers such as tree-free papers, like cotton, linen, bamboo, and hemp. The rich textures of these different papers can create a unique look not found in traditional stock selections.  Check out the 100% recovered cotton papers at the custom letterpress studio Oblation Papers and Press.  Their sheets are all handcrafted, acid-free papers produced with remnants from the garment industry. Or, select the more eccentric and colorful line of Green Field Paper Company and you’re on your way to greener pastures. Be sure to ask for soy or plant-based inks.