Shot from the gorgeous Eco-Beautiful Weddings magazine. (www.eco-beautifulweddings.com/fall2010) Photography by Jennifer Domenick (www.lovelifeimages.com)

Green is not just associated with “envy”!

From “Will you marry me?” to “I do” is marked by anticipation, excitement, and maybe even just a little anxiety. When planning arguably the most memorable event of one’s life, “sustainability” or “green” perhaps do not immediately come to mind. However, in a world that is becoming increasingly more socially conscious, many are incorporating green initiatives that not only help the environment but also the drain on their wallets. For example, a couple from New York planted their own flowers and arrangements for their wedding and then for décor, used soy candles, potted bamboo, and lights that they purchased secondhand. They also bought all of their food and beverages from locally owned stores. Not only did these small initiatives save the couple money but they also were able to have a wedding that actually mirrored their green sustainable lifestyles.

Using eco-friendly, tree-free invitations is yet another great way to add a green spin to weddings. Simply by selecting a venue central to guests, you can reduce the level of emissions associated with traveling to the wedding. If women are concerned about attire, no need to worry because designers are now offering eco-couture dresses made from green sustainable materials. If you’re not quite ready to commit to an eco-friendly dress, you can buy a ‘vintage’ dress or consider wearing a family gown–both equally green alternatives.

Green as a SMART choice!

Committing to a green wedding may seem difficult but the benefits certainly outweigh any issues or reservations one might have. An average wedding expends about 62 tons of carbon dioxide and produces about 500 pounds of garbage! By incorporating one or two green alternatives into the wedding, a major dent could be made in reducing the amount of waste as well as the carbon footprint.

Additionally, while making a social impact (supporting conservation and multiple levels of a green lifestyle), the economic impact made by saving money while supporting environmentally conscious businesses like Good Gifts Naturally. In the long term, supporting the green industry will ultimately motivate and encourage other businesses to implement green initiatives. With both the personal and collective benefits of a green wedding in mind, the idea is definitely worth considering on that very special day of love.