If you’re wondering how to have the wedding of your dreams, while also being environmentally conscious, we’re here to help. Invitations, decor, food, drink - it seems like a tough task to have a memorable event while still being environmentally conscious, but we’re here to show you you can indeed have your cake and eat it too. We have compiled several wedding ideas that are not only sustainable, but are fun, unique, and will help elevate your big day.
Here are seven cool ideas to help you create an eco-friendly, beautiful wedding:
1. Opt For Dried Flowers
Dried flowers are a sustainable, long-lasting alternative to fresh blooms. Their rustic and moody appearance fits perfectly with vintage, bohemian, and modern wedding themes alike. These flowers don’t require water and can be used in bouquets, centerpieces, or even as decorative accents. Consider using flowers that are native to your state - in Missouri, where we’re located, that would include New England Aster, Hydrangea, Marsh Milkweed, Cardinal Flower, Cliff Goldenrod, Dense Blazing Star, among many more. What’s great is that dried flowers can be kept as keepsakes or reused for home décor, adding a personal and lasting touch to your wedding day.
2. Choose Reusable Signage
Instead of printing signs that will end up in the trash, consider using reusable materials like chalkboards or fabric signs. Not only do they look charming and playful, but they can also be used for other events or displayed at home after your wedding. Chalkboards allow you to customize messages easily, and fabric signs bring an elegant yet sustainable vibe. Pro tip: check out local marketplaces, like Facebook, Craigslist, and vintage stores for chalkboards. There are often plenty for sale and the older they are, the more character they tend to have.
Photo by DoodleCraft Design
3. Host an Outdoor Wedding
An outdoor venue reduces the need for energy used in lighting and air conditioning while providing a naturally beautiful backdrop for your big day. With nature as your décor, you’ll need fewer decorations, reducing waste and cost. If you’re in Kansas City, The Guild’s 5,000-square-foot outdoor garden is a perfect setting for a sustainable wedding. It’s important to consider the location and season of having an outdoor wedding, as you don’t want you and your guests to bake or be too cold.
Photo by The Guild
4. Sustainable Invitations
Invitations are one of the first ways to set the tone for your wedding. Consider sending out e-invites to cut down on paper waste, or choose invitations made from recycled materials. If you’re looking for something extra special, you can even create a custom wedding website with a fun wedding-related URL and all. Website platforms make these super easy to set up, but if going this path, we would recommend having a designer with experience set this up for you. You could find talent locally or on freelance websites such as Upwork or Fiverr.
5. Reusable Décor
When it comes to wedding décor, think beyond single-use items. Select pieces you can reuse in your home after the wedding! Whether it’s lanterns, vases, picture frames, or artwork these items can help make your house a home and remind you of your special day for years to come. This approach saves money and prevents waste while making your wedding feel personal and unique.
Photo by Wassana Panapute/Shutterstock
6. Mason Jar Favors
Mason jars make the perfect wedding favor. There is something rustic and homey about mason jars that everyone loves. Mason jars are not only reusable, but guests can also use them as drinking glasses at the reception or take them home to use for storing food, as flower vases, or even as decorative pieces. As for what to put inside — consider using them as a vessel for a candle or adding in something from your city that you appreciate, like local chocolates or a farm fresh jam. Personalize the jars with a fun design or your wedding date for an extra touch.
Photo by Sergio Sandona
7. Donate Leftover Food
Food waste is often a major issue at weddings, but you can help minimize it by arranging to donate leftover food. Many local shelters or food banks will gladly accept unused, unserved food. Not only will this reduce waste, but it will also make a positive impact on your community—a meaningful way to celebrate love and generosity on your big day.
By incorporating these seven sustainable ideas, you can have a stylish and memorable wedding that also helps protect the environment. If you are in Kansas City and looking for a venue or have questions on how to make your day extra special, give us at The Guild a shout! We’d love to make your big day one you’ll always cherish.