Sustainability is rapidly rising to the forefront of importance in every industry, and weddings are no exception. More and more couples are seeking eco-friendly ways to celebrate their big day and we have some inspirational ideas to help achieve this, without compromising on quality and style.
STAY LOCAL
All aspects of a wedding, venue, catering, clothing and more have a carbon footprint. So, think locally first when sourcing your suppliers to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Some venues, like ours, pride themselves on providing locally sourced catering from nearby farms, breweries, and wineries so you know you’re getting that well-loved, homegrown touch. Sourcing local and organic suppliers will help smaller businesses thrive and support your local community. It’s also advisable to ask your venue their plastic and waste policies and their sustainability standards to check how green they are in comparison to others.
ATTIRE FOR HIRE
We know the dress can steal the show but let’s not forget about those all-important suits. Grooms and groomsmen want to feel on top of the world too and instead of splashing some cash on a brand-new suit, hiring formalwear options are becoming more and more popular. It’s a much cheaper and environmentally friendly option to get everyone suited and booted and make sure you’re all coordinated!
PRELOVED
Many wedding dresses end up dusty in a forgotten about closet when they deserve more than one time to shine. Opting for a second-hand dress gives these beautiful pieces that chance at a new lease of life. Traditionally, women often wore their mother or grandmother’s dress as it was thought their good luck would absorb into you and your marriage. This is a tried and tested method at reviving a well-loved dress with a lovely nostalgic twist. There are still a multitude of dresses online, including some designer names, that you could get at a bargain price, so we recommend scouring the internet before going in store. Also, saving this bit of extra budget can help go toward any alterations needed to get that tailored, unique fit!
DECORATIONS
There is an abundance of recyclable decoration pieces you can use for all areas of your wedding. Here are some of our top picks: bunting, candle sticks, mirrors, vases, and vintage lanterns. Create eclectic centrepieces and have fun with all the colour, pattern, and materials you can find. The best part is you can source a lot of these items from local charity shops and save yourself money instead of buying new and give to a good cause at the same time. Remember to look for eco-friendly options too, such as solar powered outdoor lighting, coloured lights instead of balloons and biodegradable confetti if your venue allows it.
FLOWER POWER
Consider the local seasonal flowers at the time of your wedding to avoid choosing flowers grown overseas. This choice will reduce the carbon footprint and exploitation issues in the supply chain. For centrepieces of floral arrangements in your décor, think of options that can be repurposed after the wedding. For example, potted orchids or mini trees that can be taken home or gifted to guests. If you fancy getting your fingers green, try growing your own flowers and create hand-tied bouquets and posies to reduce florist costs. If you do pick a florist check their sustainability credentials; reputable florists will be transparent about their entire business process.
INVITATIONS
Handwritten invitations add a lovely personal touch for your guests. There are plenty of sustainable options to consider, such as recycled paper, vegetable-based inks and even plantable paper which contains tiny seeds. You can do the same for placecards too! Or go for the paperless and zero-waste option and create digital invitations you can email to guests.
ALL INCLUSIVE
Your venue can provide more than just your surroundings for the day. Permanent buildings such as hotels, halls and country houses are more sustainable options than transporting a marquee and they can offer many other services for your wedding to get an all-inclusive package. Hotels provide accommodation for the bridal party, groomsmen and guests if needed. They can also host both the ceremony and reception so less transport is required. Venues that often host events will be prepared with recycling facilities and have contact lists of local suppliers. If you want to go super eco-friendly, consider glamping tents, yurts and eco-pods, perfect for those who want to be close to nature and preserve the environment without sacrificing their comfort.
Things to consider …
Time of Year
Use that sunshine to your advantage and save on lighting and heating costs by having a Summer wedding!
Food for Thought
The average wedding wastes 10% of its food and 15% of guests cannot finish a lavish 3 course meal. Avoid over-catering and offer two delicious courses so your guests are satisfied and waste is minimised.
Group Transport
Organise a bus or coach to transport your guests to cut CO2 emissions.
Selective Guest List
This is a tricky one to consider but having a smaller guest list means there’s fewer people travelling to the wedding.
Favours
37% of wedding guests don’t eat wedding favours so why not use this as an opportunity to give out something that gives back to the planet – wildflower seeds, reusable straws, vegan candles or eco-friendly wedding crackers!
Celebrate with us!
ASHDOWN PARK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB, EAST SUSSEX
The neo-Gothic splendour of the Grade II listed mansion house, a choice of period rooms, beautifully landscaped grounds and secret garden and, of course, the stained-glass windows and vaulted ceilings of the sympathetically converted chapel all come as part of your dream wedding
THE GRAND HOTEL, EASTBOURNE
Couples have been tying the knot at The Grand for generations, seduced by its old world charm, elegance, and style. From the architectural splendour of the Compton Room to the spectacular Silverdale Room, whether your wedding or civil partnership is small or large, The Grand has the experience to make the most of your day.
TYLNEY HALL HOTEL & GARDENS, HAMPSHIRE
Lovers of traditional weddings flock to the baronial hall setting of the magnificent Tylney Suite. From dappled sunlight filtering through an avenue of trees, flowers in full bloom in the gardens and musicians playing in a minstrel’s gallery, Tylney Hall is the most romantic venue in Hampshire.