Weddingbee Blog

Before I was engaged, I had only attended a few weddings in my day, and of those, only one was a “fully fleshed out” event. So, imagine my surprise when I found out that the average cost of a wedding in Los Angeles is upwards of (insert spit take here) $30,000!!! Not to mention all the waste and energy use that one creates, which is no bueno for our lovely mother earth. Not for this dirty hippie, yo.

(hippie goodness)

So, we’re trying to do our part to reduce our carbon footprint and be frugal about the process. Honestly, the frugality is more a product of necessity since we’re broke-ass, but it also makes me feel less wasteful. Bonus!

One thing we explored early on was printing our invitations on seeded paper, or at the least, recycled paper with soy-based ink. Seeded paper also comes with the added bonus of being able to have something tangible grow from our love, which is too charming for words.

Greenfield Paper Company is a great place to find these invitations, notes and other cute eco-friendly items.

(source)

We also considered doing seed packet favors, or seeded paper favors, but the packets are cuter, no? Since we lined up the photo booth, we’re not sure we need extra favors… but we’ll see how the budget looks as we get closer.

We’re planning to secure party-shuttle transport for the out-of-towners or anyone else who wants a ride, to keep down emissions and to also provide a sober means of transport. For everyone else, we’re encouraging car-pooling.

Lastly, I’ll be wearing an eco-friendly gown that features recycled and organic fabrics, made by a local designer (more on this later). We tried to find a way to also get the bridal party and my man into eco-conscious clothing too… but that’s much harder to come by, and often not the most cost-effective.

Sometimes I get down on myself for wanting to choose the prettier, more fun, more exciting and often cheaper option over what’s “responsible”. But then I remember that keeping the earth in mind a little while planning is better than not at all. Hopefully, my little bits of greenness will compile with other brides’ efforts… and if we each do a little something to be kinder to the earth, it will all add up. I still try to come up with ways to be green each day I plan… and if they work, then all the better.

Go team Earth!

What are you doing to “greenify” your wedding?