The Alternative Wedding

By: Cathleen K. Bode

> There are very few days in life that a bride looks forward to as much as her wedding day. However, just because this is bound to be one amazing party doesn’t mean that it needs to be clouded with waste. There are many ways to make this magical event elegant, luxurious, and dripping with love while being kind to the planet. If you’re automatically picturing barefoot brides and hippie husbands, think again. Green weddings have become incredibly popular in the last few years, which should come as no surprise due to the environmental crisis and it’s impact on our consciousness. And with so much variety in your options, it’s easier than ever to be eco-chic in the most exquisite way.

Your wedding dress is probably the most important article of clothing you’ll ever wear. So why not make it something you can feel good about? Some materials that wedding dresses are made out of are synthetic (like tulle and satin) meaning that the fabric goes through a lengthy process of high electric consumption, which is not green at all. However, you have the option to make a beneficial alternative choice by opting for a dress made out of naturally occurring fabrics like silk and organic cotton. Many highly regarded couture lines such as Adele Wechsler are now debuting “eco-couture” lines with dresses that use either up-cycled or ecological fabrics. A naturally made dress is a wonderful way to help the planet, but if you’re really ambitious you might also consider a recycled dress. No, not a dress made out of old water bottles or soda cans, but rather a dress that was worn for an hour or two only to be destined for a life of preservation. Recycledbride.com is a website dedicated to re-selling couture, brand-name gowns at discounted prices that are either brand new with tags or very lightly and respectfully worn. A recycled dress is a great way to limit the unnecessary resources and extra money that could otherwise be spent on your honeymoon.

The wedding reception is not only fun for the bride and groom, but entire guest list as well. Dancing to great music, eating amazing food, and being surrounded with loved ones is a rarity that should be relished. It seems that a party this fun couldn’t get any better, but with a few green touches, you’re sure to be the progressive style maven in your social circle. Start with choosing save-the-dates and invitations made out of pressed flowers and recycled paper, or nix paper all together and go for a chic electronic invitation. Many couples are creating websites for their wedding day, which is a great way to keep your guests in the know regarding your registry and calendar details. Another important touch is to investigate the source of your food. Caterers aim to please, so try to make a request for local and organic food if possible. Not only is it better for you, but local food tends to taste much better as well. And for dessert, sample a few vegan cakes along with your run of the mill red velvet. Nothing is more surprising then finding out that delicious butter-cream frosting you just ate was made without any heavy dairy ingredients at all! If you’re not sure where to put all this green-goodness, consider a hotel that has the same type of values. Greenhotels.com is a great website that has listings of the most ecological hotels in your area, so you can check out some impressive venues.

With just a few minor touches, your wedding can be fun, festive, and friendly to the planet all at the same time. Hopefully we’ve opened your mind to some of the more ecological and economical options out there. Look your best, dance the night away, and embark on a lifelong journey of love for each other, and our planet as well. <