Christmas often means the opposite of being eco – loads of plastic, increased consumption and excess and so much waste! Marrying the festive period to a wedding can mean even more waste! But you can have a sustainable and eco Christmas wedding! Today we are sharing ideas for a festive occasion that is kind to the planet.
Deck the Halls with Eco-Friendly Ornaments
Transform your wedding venue into a Christmas wonderland with sustainable, eco wedding decorations. Opt for reusable or biodegradable materials like wooden ornaments, fabric garlands, and recycled paper decorations. Embrace the charm of locally-sourced holly and mistletoe for a touch of tradition without the carbon footprint. It is also a great idea to hire these, meaning the decor has been used before and will be used time and time again.
Sustainable Lighting Magic
Cast a warm and romantic glow on your celebration with energy-efficient LED lights. Consider using solar-powered string lights for an eco wedding twinkle. Enhance the festive ambiance by incorporating recycled glass candle holders and beeswax candles, both sustainable choices that add to the Christmas charm.
Chic Sustainable Attire
For the couple opt for wedding attire crafted from sustainable fabrics. Think hemp, organic cotton, or even recycled materials for an elegant and eco-friendly look. Vintage or second-hand dresses and suits not only contribute to sustainability but also bring a touch of timeless glamour to your Christmas celebration. Alternatively, wear your favourite festive dress and suit and encourage your guests to do the same.
Eco-Friendly Favours and Invitations
Send out electronic invitations to save paper and reduce waste. Should you prefer physical invitations, select recycled paper with a minimalist design. For wedding favours, gift guests with reusable items like festive tote bags, bamboo utensils, or small potted plants that capture the essence of Christmas. Or how about gingerbread cookies? Design all with a festive feel – whether that be winter white and silver or traditional red and gold.
Natural and Locally-Sourced Christmas Florals
Instead of importing flowers, choose locally-sourced, seasonal blooms for your bouquets and centerpieces. Embrace the festive spirit with poinsettias, pinecones, and holly, adding a touch of Christmas magic to your floral arrangements.
Tablescapes with Festive Flair
Dress your tables in organic cotton or linen tablecloths and napkins. Opt for reusable plates, glasses, and cutlery to reduce waste. Incorporate natural Christmas elements such as pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and recycled glassware to create an elegant yet eco wedding tablescape. Add reusable hand-made crackers, maybe with festive sweets inside.
Sustainable Christmas Catering
Collaborate with your caterer to source local and organic ingredients for your Christmas-inspired menu. Consider a family-style dinner to minimise food waste, and opt for compostable or reusable plates and utensils for an eco-friendly dining experience. If you want a traditional menu then choose turkey, seasonal veg and a nut wellington for the vegetarians. You could also serve mini mince pies or brie and cranberry bites as canapes.
Give Back with Your Registry
Transform the act of gift-giving into a charitable gesture by setting up a registry for donations or experiences. Encourage your guests to contribute to causes that resonate with the season, promoting the spirit of giving and sustainable living such as local shelters.
Here’s to a eco Christmas wedding that sparkles with love and sustainability!
Photo credits:
Photographer Debbie Hare Photography @debbieharephotography / Planning Styling and Tableware AB Event Hire @ab_hire_event / Florist Chobham Flowers @chobhamflowers / Catering Didi and Dot @didianddot / Cake Iced Innovations @icedinnovations / Sweet treats Cakes You Happy @cakesyouhappy / Stationery and Candles Lucca Studios @lucca_studios / Christmas Trees Mela Certe @merla.certe / Cocktails Bitter Sweet Bartenders @bittersweetbartenders / Ceramic decorations Red Cat Creations @red.cat.creations / Embroidered crackers & bows The Embroidered Napkin Company @theembroiderednapkincompany
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