It has been more than six years since the Green Bride Guide book was published, and green weddings have continued to grow in popularity. Today, more than 70% of brides are including eco-friendly elements in their events, and the number of green options has multiplied accordingly. It is easier than ever to find vendors offering local and organic food, sustainable flowers, and rings crafted from ethical gemstones and recycled metals. As green weddings have moved mainstream, what defines a green wedding has changed. “Green” is no longer a wedding theme but an approach to planning — and we are seeing green weddings in every style and color.
That said, like with weddings in general, there are always a number of eco-specific wedding trends, and next year’s are going to be particularly lovely.
1. Boho Glam Weddings
In 2015, the earthy bride will shine with casual elegance. Boho glam style offers a fun mix of high and low décor: local wildflowers in vintage vases, vintage and upcycled rhinestone and feather hair accessories with a 1920s twist, and flowing cotton and peace silk gowns. Green brides will top this look using eco-friendly makeup to make smoky eyes and rosy cheeks.
Photo Credit: Four Letter Fashion
2. Oversized Edible Favors
Sweet treats are always popular at weddings, but next year, the candy station will be replaced by oversized treats. For green brides, that means large natural lollipops, photo marshmallows, and piles of large organic cookies with intricate patterns in powdered sugar or organic frosting. Be on the lookout for sweets complex recipes an adult twists, like these Blackberry Merlot Mulled Wine Lollipops from Groovy Baker.
Photo Credit: Groovy Baker via Green Bride Guide
3. “Outdoors In” Details
Many eco-friendly brides choose to have their weddings outside, but the number of indoor weddings with an outdoor theme is growing. Look for large branches down the aisle, string lights made from real flowers around the dance floor, and tablescapes of moss, succulents, and other lush plantings.
Photo Credit: Jag Studio
4. Real Wood Stationery
For rustic weddings, nothing beats the feel of a wood save-the-date, invitation, or thank you card. Now, there are a wide range of eco-friendly options, including everything from thin Forest Stewardship Council (FSC-certified) veneer to thick Colorado Beetle Kill pine. Some vendors allow for complete customization, while others offer classic designs that range from quaint owls to elegant script.
Photo Credit: Night Owl Papergoods (left); Unique Custom Products (right)
5. Colorful Paper Décor
Paper is one of the easiest — and least expensive — things to green. Next year, we will see colorful poms, streamers, and even confetti made from recycled paper. The nice thing for brides is that these items no longer have to be in solid colors. Several companies now make recycled paper décor in fun patterns and even metallics.
6. Dried Floral Crowns
Beautiful hair accessories are always in style, but gone are the days of tucking a simple rose into your updo. Flower headbands have morphed into flower halos, creating unforgettable natural looks. For brides who want to capture the glamour of real flowers without the weight or hassle, dried flowers crowns offer the perfect solution. Some, like lavender crowns are extremely fragrant — offering an added bonus for eco-minded brides.
Photo Credit: Powers Photography Studios
7. Weddings For A Cause
Perhaps it is the influence of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, but using your wedding as a vehicle to support a good cause is gaining popularity. Next year, we will see more charity gift registries, charity wedding favors, and honeymoons with volunteer components.
8. More Rentals
Brides are wising up to ways to get around the high-ticket price of a perfect wedding — and rentals are great options. From gowns and jewelry to vases for the tables, brides are looking to borrow, rent, or buy and resell more than ever. They are getting their money’s worth while decreasing their impact on the planet. More vendors are getting into the rental business as well, as they realize that offering antique chairs or votive holders is a quick way to make a little extra cash in the recovering economy.
Tell us: What steps have you taken to make your wedding more eco-friendly?
—Kate Harrison, founder of greenbrideguide.com and the Director of Eco-friendly Marketing for mywedding.com
