While weddings are a wonderful chance for friends and family to get together and celebrate the union of two people, they can actually be very damaging to the environment. And, with table decorations, flowers, and food that’s thrown away at the end of the day, it’s not really surprising. Luckily, there are many ways to make weddings more sustainable. If you’re wondering how to plan a greener event, then we’ve got you sorted. From the type of invitations you send to the clothes you wear, we’ve rounded up our top five tips for a more sustainable wedding.

Eco-friendly invitations

While wedding invitations look great, they also waste a lot of paper. Luckily, there are many environmentally friendly options out there. If you want to send physical invites, be sure to choose a company that uses recycled materials.

Alternatively, opt for an online invitation. While some people may frown upon them, e-invites can actually be a wonderful way to connect with guests. Whether you have a particular theme, colour, or design in mind, this can all be transferred to an online platform. With this type of invitation, you can include a link so that guests can RSVP and access the gift registry all in one place.

Hire as much as you can

From the table decorations to the groom's suit, hiring is a great way to reduce the amount of wastage at a wedding. It's often very tempting to buy everything for a wedding. While this option can be cheaper, it also means that you will be left with many things you don't need. Alternatively, you can save some time and hire your centrepieces and tableware instead.

Think about the flowers

Flowers make a big appearance at weddings. Not only do they add plenty of colour, but they can completely transform any venue.

Unfortunately, freshly cut flowers that go straight in the bin are not sustainable. Many of them travel long distances before they even arrive.

Start by choosing a local florist who takes an eco-conscious approach. Some florists will even grow their own flowers or use local farms.

If you are making your own flower arrangements, then avoid using foam and choose seasonal flowers or potted plants that you can pass on or reuse.

Go secondhand

Buying secondhand is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint. Scour the internet for secondhand wedding items, and you'll be spoilt for choice.

To avoid the fast fashion industry and save hundreds of pounds at the same time, why not choose a vintage wedding dress instead?

And it doesn't need to end with the dress. Bridesmaid gifts, suits, shoes, bags, balloons, decorations, sweet jars, and even favours can all be purchased secondhand. And, once you are finished with it, pass it on so it never reaches landfill.

Reduce food waste

Food waste at weddings is a big problem. We all love to indulge in tasty meals, cakes, and canapes, but what happens with the leftovers? Shockingly, many catering companies simply throw it away. Before you choose a food supplier, check if they have a food wastage policy. Can you donate it to a homeless shelter? Do they give it to their staff? Don't be afraid to ask these questions. Plated dinners are also a far better way to avoid food wastage, in comparison to buffets.

For more info on sustainable weddings, click here.

Guest Blog by John Bramer