The belle of the ball
If you're looking for an ‘organic' outfit, stick to man-made fibres and avoid wearing leather shoes. You might also want to find out where your dress is being made.
Stylish stationery
When it comes to invitations, order of service, placecards and other stationery items, use recycled paper. The same goes for confetti. Supply guest with organic rice and real flower petals instead of paper confetti.
Get me to the church
Many eco-friendly couples avoid using a car on their wedding day. Opt for a horse and carriage instead or, if the ceremony venue is close to home, you might even decide to walk there.
Food and drink
If you're going organic or catering for vegan guests, you might like to consider the following:
- Meat, fish and poultry are obviously off the menu for vegetarian and vegan guests. A good caterer should be able to suggest tasty alternatives.
- Stick to seasonal, organic, locally-grown produce. As well as supporting your area, you'll be avoiding pesticides and other nasties.
- Vegan guests will avoid dairy products, so look for alternatives such as soya milk. This also means having your wedding cake made without eggs.
- Some wine contains gelatine so is best avoided for vegetarian guests. Look out for organic wine and make sure it doesn't contain gelatine or egg white.
For more information, contact the Vegetarian Society www.vegsoc.org or the Vegan Society www.vegansociety.com
Fabulous flowers
Follow the same basic rule that you apply to food and always choose seasonal flowers. Consider having plants instead of cut flowers as centrepieces. As well as looking lovely, you can give them to guests at the end of the day, so there's absolutely no waste.
Green gifts
Instead of giving your guests sweets and chocolates as favours, how about a packet of flower seeds or a small pot with a tree seedling?
Looking good
Carry your way of life through to your beauty products, choosing organic skincare and make-up that haven't been tested on animals.
Presents Please
If you're having a gift list, compile it using eco-friendly products. Alternatively, you might decide to ask guests to contribute to charity, either by donating or by buying a specific gift. Put a list together that gives guests the option to plant a tree, build a classroom abroad or buy a donkey for a community in the developing world. Visit www.treesforlife.org.uk or www.oxfamunwrapped.com
Photo Michelle Garrett
