HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice on planning a sustainable wedding CAPTURING MEMORIES Choose a photographer who follows sustainable practices. Many photographers are becoming increasingly mindful of their environmental impact. For example, we all use rechargeable batteries because they come with our cameras. It’s worth asking whether your shortlisted photographers buy all their equipment new and how often they replace it. There’s a thriving market for second-hand photographic equipment, and buying used is a great way to save money while helping the planet. Personally, I opt for used camera lenses. Consider the impact of film photography. Some photographers shoot with film at weddings, which is gaining popularity as a retro approach. However, developing single-use rolls of film involves harmful chemicals, so this may not be the most eco-friendly choice. Similarly, you might want to avoid providing disposable film cameras for guests, as they contribute to chemical waste. Prioritise digital delivery of your photos. Most photographers provide your wedding photos through an online gallery as standard. Some may even send a USB stick with your digital files. If you prefer to avoid this on environmental grounds, I offer an alternative by emailing a link to download all your files. This allows you to view your photos on your phone, laptop, or TV album without needing to print them. If you’d still like printed photos, look for a print lab that uses FSC-certified paper. Opt for a venue with natural light, particularly large windows and lots of white or light-coloured walls. This reduces your photographer’s need for flash lighting and minimises the venue’s energy use from artificial lights. Hosting as much of your wedding outdoors, weather permitting, will further reduce energy consumption. My light and airy photography style is perfect for venues with natural light! Reduce travel-related emissions as booking a local photographer (and other suppliers) is an excellent way to cut down on travel emissions. I’m based in the heart of the area served by Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding, and I always drive economically—light on acceleration and braking—to all my weddings. Small choices make a big difference. With the right supplier, you can enjoy beautiful wedding photography that aligns with your environmental values. Dom Brenton | Dom Brenton Photography https://dombrenton.com https://dombrenton.com SETTING THE SCENE Nestled in the heart of the stunning New Forest, Balmer Lawn Hotel offers a picturesque setting for your dream wedding. Beyond the beauty of our surroundings, we’re deeply committed to preserving the unique wildlife and natural charm of this special area. We believe that every detail of your wedding day can be both environmentally conscious and enchanting. Pick a venue that, like us, is proud to work closely with a network of carefully selected suppliers who share their passion for sustainability. From flowers to furnishings, ensure every aspect of your wedding aligns with their values of conservation and eco-friendliness. Our suppliers use reusable materials and focus on reducing waste, ensuring that even short-lived items, like flowers, are given a second life. For example, flowers used for bridesmaids’ bouquets can be repurposed as centrepieces or arrangements for your tables. Find a venue that embraces the beauty of biodegradable confetti. Instead of traditional plastic, which takes years to break down, our ecofriendly confetti is made from flower petals, rice paper, or other natural materials that decompose quickly, leaving no trace behind. The New Forest is a place of extraordinary beauty and diverse wildlife. We take great pride in preserving the health of this natural landscape, and we believe that our sustainable wedding practices contribute to its protection. By minimising waste and reducing our carbon footprint, we help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the New Forest. We’re here to help you plan a wedding that’s as kind to the environment as it is unforgettable. Let us assist you in creating the perfect day while making a positive impact on the world around us. Casey Hiscock | Balmer Lawn Hotel www.balmerlawnhotel.com http://kimberleygarrod.co.uk 78
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=