How to Make Your Destination Wedding Eco-Friendly: 6 Easy Ideas
Planning a destination wedding? It’s the ultimate dream! But why not add a splash of green to make it even more magical? By going eco-friendly, you can tie the knot in paradise and give a little love back to Mother Earth. From your dress to your decor, there are plenty of easy ways to keep your big day gorgeous and green.
Ready to dive into some planet-friendly wedding magic? Let’s make your celebration stunning, sustainable, and unforgettable!
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1. Say “I Do” to Sustainable Wedding Rings
The rings you exchange on your wedding day symbolize your commitment to each other, and you can make those rings a symbol of your commitment to the planet, too!
Choose sustainable wedding rings made from recycled metals or ethically sourced stones. Several jewellers specialize in eco-friendly options that are both stunning and responsibly made.
Check out these beautiful eco-friendly rings:
- Sustainable Rings by Brilliant Earth
- Energy-production efficient Tungsten rings (they are very inexpensive and stronger than any other material!)
- Wedding ring made from a whisky barrel
2. Ditch the Glitter – Go with Biodegradable Confetti
Nothing says celebration like confetti, but traditional plastic confetti can linger in nature long after your guests have headed home. Opt for biodegradable confetti made from flowers, leaves, or rice paper. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also adds a whimsical, natural touch to your ceremony and photos!
Note: Some resorts will not allow you to toss anything, so make sure you clear this with your on-site coordinator beforehand! If you plan on tossing dried flowers, be sure you are able to bring them with you, as lots of countries do not allow the import of plant materials. It’s best to source them on-location.
We had our guests toss rose petals, but I’ve seen brides have their guests blow bubbles, or ring bells as they walk up the aisle.
Eco-friendly confetti options or alternative ideas:
3. Eco-Conscious Party Favours
Wedding favours are a lovely way to thank your guests, but the plastic and waste often associated with them can be a downer for the environment. Instead, choose thoughtful and sustainable wedding favours.
Picking out wedding favours might seem like a tiny detail in the grand scheme of things, especially when you’re juggling a million other destination wedding ideas, but it’s one of the easiest things to cross off your list because there are so many options!
Sustainable wedding favour ideas:
- Locally crafted goods: Supporting local artisans and reducing shipping footprints? It’s a win-win. Handcrafted keepsakes serve as a lasting reminder of the beautiful locale and your eco-friendly destination wedding locations.
- Charitable donations: In lieu of traditional gifts, why not make a donation to an environmental charity on behalf of each guest? It’s a profound way to leave a green legacy behind.
- Eco-Friendly tote bags: Customizable tote bags made from organic cotton or recycled materials are practical and sustainable. Guests can use them long after your wedding for shopping or beach trips! These are a great base for making your own welcome bags!
4. Choose Eco-Friendly Wedding Dresses
When it comes to your wedding dress for your destination wedding, you don’t have to compromise style for sustainability. Look for designers who use organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fabrics. Or better yet, you can choose to wear a vintage or second hand dress, which is not only eco-friendly but also unique!
Check out these sustainable wedding dress options:
- Recycled Fabric Wedding Dresses by Reformation
- Raw Hemp Boho dress
- Organic Goddess dress (I am OBSESSED!)
Even your local thrift stores may have second hand wedding dresses and they are a STEAL!
5. Eco-Friendly Invitations & Paper Products
Printed invitations are beautiful, but they can also generate a lot of waste. Choose recycled paper for your physical invitations better yet – go digital with your invites to save paper!
Going digital is a total game-changer. You’ll cut down on paper waste and set the eco-friendly vibe right from the start. Plus, no more invites getting lost in drawers or, worse, the trash.
Worried about losing that personal touch? Don’t be! Digital invites can be super creative. Add a personal video message, a fun countdown to the big day, or customize them to match your sustainable wedding theme. Your guests will love the thoughtful, unique touch—and let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy a little inbox surprise?
Sustainable invitation ideas:
- Eco-Friendly Seed Wedding Invitations (there are SO MANY of these designs to pick from and ensures no waste!)
- Digital Destination Wedding Invitations – again, so many beautiful options! These are fully customizable and allow you to send out yourself. Keep an eye out because these regularly come on sale!
6. Utilizing Natural Beauty for Décor
Imagine standing in a stunning location where nature’s beauty is your backdrop! That’s one of the things I say to brides all the time – your location IS the decor! The gentle rustle of leaves, the serene sound of waves, and the warm glow of natural light – there’s no better backdrop than that!
If you want to add in some personal touches, consider using natural materials that are sustainable or can be reused. Check out what’s included in your package and ask your wedding coordinator for decor options that are best for your budget and your taste.
Natural Elements to Incorporate:
- Driftwood Archways: Perfect for beachside ceremonies, adding rustic charm while blending seamlessly with the surroundings.
- Floral Garlands: Use locally grown, seasonal flowers for your décor. They’re fresher, more sustainable, and support local growers. Plus, if you reuse your florals for your centrepieces, you’re not just saving money, but repurposing what you already have!
- Gorgeous Cotton or Linen Table Runners: These natural fabrics are both elegant and eco-friendly, perfect for adding a touch of softness to your tablescape.
One last thought…
What else to consider (but may be difficult at an all-inclusive resort) is your menu. Of course, we’d all love food that is sustainable, but that may not always be the case. Unless if you’re at a private venue, there’s a good chance all of your food is imported.
Consider including plant-based or vegetarian dishes, which often have a lower environmental impact than meat-based options. Many resorts are now offering more extensive vegetarian and vegan menus due to increased demand.
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