Tips for an Eco-Chic Wedding

:: How to host an environmentally friendly wedding

by Pam Salisbury of Flourish in Kitchener

Think global - shop local. Talk with prospective vendors, get to know their business practices, and ways that their business "keeps things green." Have them recommend other vendors that they know of who share the same values.

Have your gown and bridesmaids' dresses custom made. The fabric may be imported, but the work is kept local. Or, honour your mother or grandmother by wearing their dress, and shop for vintage attendant outfits.

E-invites eliminate paper, but some find them impersonal. Look for post-consumer (recycled) papers. Instead of reply cards using envelopes, use a postcard-style reply card to cut down on the amount of paper used.

Be wary of dollar store items. Some items may be made in factories with poor working conditions and environmental standards. Candles may contain lead in their wicks and often don't burn well. Look for unscented, higher quality candles - soy based or even bees wax candles are great options, but be sure they are unscented.

Stick to fresh flowers. Artificial flowers are imported, and are often made in sub-stand conditions, and are not biodegradable. Sustainably grown, fairly traded flowers, such as roses, carnations, mums, hydrangeas and calla lilies are available, but are imported. There are many local varieties, such as gerberas, lilies, mums, and freesia that are grown locally year round. Organic flowers are also becoming available, with a little searching.

Ask your florist how the flowers will be disposed of – whether they redistribute to churches or shelters, or if they have a composting program. Avoid the use of floral foam (Oasis tm.), the green sponge that florists often use to arrange the flowers. It contains large amounts of formaldehyde and boron, and doesn't break down or compost. Opt for hand-tied bouquets, with ceremony and reception arrangements in glass vases or other containers that don't require foam.

Instead of guest favours, host a tree planting. Donations to favourite charities noted on a card at each table is becoming popular, and as well as being eco, can take some stress away from having to purchase tokens that can push up costs.

Set up a carpool for guests, both those who are local, and those who may be coming from out of town.