Green at Plan your big day with the planet in mind HEART Planning your wedding is an exciting journey, filled with choices that define your day and reflect who you are as a couple. To avoid weddings becoming wasteful, more couples are considering sustainability — whether that means reducing waste, supporting ethical vendors, or simply minimising their environmental footprint. The good news? Eco-friendly choices can be seamlessly integrated into every stage of your planning. This guide will help you make sustainable decisions without compromising your style or vision. FROM YES TO FOREVER One of the first steps in planning your day is defining your overall vision. Discuss the style and vibe you want for your wedding – formal, rustic, or casual. There’s no right or wrong choice, but it should reflect your personalities. For example, if you’re an introvert, a large-scale wedding may feel overwhelming; likewise, if you love big events, a small registry office ceremony might feel underwhelming. Before booking anything, take time as a couple to define what sustainability means to you. Is your focus on low waste, ethical sourcing, supporting local communities, or reducing carbon emissions? Creating a shared vision ensures your values shine through every decision. HAPPILY EVER AFTER, ON A BUDGET Budgeting may not be the most fun part of planning, but it’s essential. Decide on your overall maximum spend and identify where you want to splurge or save. Track expenses with a spreadsheet or budget tracker to avoid overspending. Remember: an amazing day isn’t worth going into debt. Next, consider your guest list. More guests mean higher costs. Family dynamics can complicate things but focus on the people who truly matter. Ask yourself do you really need to invite Auntie Sally who you haven’t seen in five years? Keep it simple, inviting only those who are central to your life. SAY ‘I DO’ IN STYLE Once you have a clear sense of the kind of day you want and a rough guest list in mind, you’re ready to start exploring venues. Your choice of venue has one of the biggest environmental impacts on your wedding, so it’s worth giving sustainability some thought early on. Look for spaces powered by renewable energy, with on-site recycling or composting systems, or partnerships with local farms and caterers. Sustainability can also shape your décor choices. Outdoor or naturally beautiful venues often require minimal decoration, helping to reduce waste. Choosing a venue close to home, or one that’s easy for guests to access, can further lower travel emissions. unsplash.com/@gettyimages unsplash.com/@mesutcicen PLANNING SOS 51
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