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Complete Article: "Green" Wedding Tips.  Throw an eco-friendly shin-dig. 

by Krista Dunk, NWweddingplace.com

ALERT - Coming SOON - NWweddingplace.com's NEW Green Weddings eBook!!

Yes, it's true...we are a little bit "green" in the Northwest and proud of it!  Why not add a bit of earth-friendly awareness to your Northwest wedding too!  The choice is yours. However, many of these tips and ideas are easy to implement, as well as worthwhile.

In general, buying local is a great 'green' idea.  Why?  Less fuel is used to transport the products.  Also, the less you have to throw away from your wedding, the better!  If you've traveled anywhere else in the U.S., you know that we, in the Northwest, are avid recyclers compared to some other areas of the country. We've listed some very practical ideas below to help you get some eco conscious, green ideas for your own wedding celebration.

CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE - The closer the proximity to the majority of your guests, the better.  Why?  Less fuel is used to transport the people to your wedding!  In a perfect world, finding venues that used solar energy or other alternative power would be great, but this may prove to be difficult.  Support venues that support conservation organizations and are environmentally friendly themselves.  You will be more eco-friendly if you have your ceremony and reception at the same location.

BRIDAL GOWN/SHOES/HAIR - Wear a previously worn dress, or your mother's dress.  This idea may seem strange, but if you are handy with a sewing machine, create your perfect dress using pre-existing clothing or fabric items.  Finding gowns made with organic fibers and in your desired style will be difficult. Opt for flowers in your hair or a floral ring. Borrow a tiara or headpiece from a friend!  Buy bridal shoes that you will wear again with other dressy or formal clothing.

 Colored Gemstones

WEDDING DECORATIONS - When it comes to decorations, the less you have to throw away after the party, the more eco-friendly your decorating is. Fresh, local grown flowers are always beautiful.  Grow your own!  Give a fabric runner away to someone else for re-use.  Use petals, sand or shells as a runner 'outline' or as tabletop decor.  Give centerpieces away to bridal party members. Also see our "15 Easiest Reception Table Decor Ideas Ever!" article for more 'green' ideas.  Ice sculptures are beautiful and 'green'.  Use food to decorate tables with.  Local made candles are also beautiful, useful and help coordinate your color scheme.

CATERING & FOOD - There's no question that organic food is both healthier for our bodies and organic farming methods reduce chemicals going into our water sources and air. Many caterers offer organic menus. Also consider using fabric linens and napkins. They can be reused over and over, and also add elegance to your reception tables. 

GUEST FAVORS - The main things to remember when considering 'green' guest favors, is 1. something that will not be wasted and end up taking up space in a landfill, and 2. something that didn't cause environmental harm to produce.  Also, consider how you will package the favors. Favor bags themselves could be made from recycled materials, or in recyclable containers. 
Here are some ideas:
Jordan Almonds, or other consumable treats
Homemade, jam or jelly
Practical, useful kitchen item or tool (caution - avoid chrome items. Chrome processing has damaged river water quality near factories)
Organic Coffee or Tea
Make bookmarks out of recycled materials with a picture or wedding info on them
Natural, handmade soaps

Going even further beyond those two 'green' favor guidelines, maybe favors could even improve the world around us!  For example:
Seed Packets
Potted Plants
Flower Bulbs
Music CD's

WEDDING TRANSPORTATION - Well, being wisked away in some sort of mini-hybrid vehicle probably doesn't seem that cool to a lot of people.  However, there are limo companies out there using bio-diesel fuels!  If you do decide to hire transportation services, pack that limo full.  Bring as many people along that can fit inside safely rather than just having it transport bride & groom only. Ask your transportation company to use their most fuel-efficient vehicle for your event.  There's always a romantic horse and buggy!

These few ideas we've presented here are probably not a totally comprehensive list of 'green' wedding ideas.  We at NWweddingplace do not consider ourselves 'green' experts, however we do value recycling, composting, conserving energy, water and fuel whenever possible.  Your wedding can incorporate eco-friendly practices easily and affordably if you so desire, and these tips should help you get creative. 

Copyright NWweddingplace.com 2008. All information contained herein is intellectual property and copyrighted by www.NWweddingplace.com. For information regarding use of this article, please contact article-inquiries@NWweddingplace.com.

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