FLOWERS Wedding flowers can leave quite the carbon footprint when imported from overseas. To avoid this, look for a local florist that sources its beautiful blooms domestically from a local grower. You could even go direct to the source and get your flowers from a flower farm. Check out flowersfromthefarm.co.uk where you can find a directory of members near to you. Sourcing locally does mean you’ll be restricted to British blooms that are in season at the time of your wedding, but that’s no bad thing. Domestic varieties are some of the most fitting for weddings, think anemones, ranunculus and hyacinths to name just a few, not to mention the ever-popular peony. You can also search for a local florist who has sustainability at its heart, using floristry methods that are kind to the environment. For example, they might avoid the use of oasis in favour of moss or wool blocks. Repurposing is a key word here too. Think about how you can reuse your arrangements throughout the day. Meadow aisle arrangements can be moved to the reception tables, or a floral arch can double as a top table backdrop. Best of all, this saves you money too. Finally, consider how you can give your blooms a life beyond the big day. Some florists will offer you a breakdown service, where they’ll bunch up the flowers to gift to loved ones. You can also donate them to a local care home for example to brighten the day of its residents. And why not ensure your bridal bouquet lasts a lifetime and have it preserved in resin? Hiring faux flowers are also an option as is opting for dried flowers, just be careful to check out the process used to dry them. CAKE When it comes to the big-day bake, it’s the potential for wastage that’s cause for concern. If you want a multi-tier showstopper but that’ll mean more cake than your guests could ever get through, talk to your cake-maker about using false tiers iced to look like the real thing but able to be used again. Otherwise, seek advice on the size of cake you’ll need for your guests, don’t over order. Cake designers have the perfect formula for calculating how much you’ll need, and trust us, it’s less than you think. If you’re still left with cake at the end of the night, provide little recyclable boxes for guests to take some home with them. The two of you may also wish to set aside a tier to take home and freeze to enjoy later. As with many other elements of a sustainable wedding, shop local to cut down the miles your cake has to travel and ask your baker about their methods. For instance, do they use locally sourced, seasonal and organic ingredients? unsplash.com@kaboompics unsplash.com@kristycruzm_ CONFETTI You’d certainly be forgiven for not wanting to forgo your confetti shot. First-things-first though, check on your venue’s policy when it comes to the confetti throw, as some don’t allow it or have sustainability related stipulations. So, ensure as your guests reach for a handful of something to chuck at you that it’s biodegradable as well as romantic! Rose petals and dried lavender are lovely choices or make your own by punching out shapes from fallen leaves - a dream for autumn weddings. Another magical option is to provide eco-friendly bubble solution, allowing guests to shower you in a veil of pretty bubbles. Grow Your Own Confetti Garden, £30, glut.co.uk SUSTAINABILITY 35
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