Is A Green Wedding Even Possible?

Sustainability
Bridgett Blough

For years, I’ve watched clients pull up to our venue, open the doors of multiple vehicles—sometimes huge trailers and moving trucks—and unload incredible amounts of stuff. Sure, some of it is from home or borrowed. But by and large, most weddings also result in massive amounts of trash and single-use consumables.

Think about it:

Votive holders
Signage
Disposable monogrammed napkins, cups, plates, etc.
Table runners
Table numbers

I once saw 150 beautiful wooden parasols to block the sun at a summer wedding, all set out in stunning wicker baskets. Was it a beautiful photo op? Absolutely. But were any of them actually used for shade during the ceremony? Not a single one.

So, what’s most important—the way it looks or the impact of your choices?

Rethink Your Wedding Purchases

Before buying anything, ask yourself:

Can this item be reused, or will it end up in a landfill after the weekend?
Can I source something used or borrow it instead?
Do I have a plan for how it will be reused afterward?
Can this item be recycled?
Can I support a small, independent business, ideally local to my area?
Will this purchase affect my ability to invest in things I value more in the future?

Flowers: Local vs. Imported

Let’s talk flowers. Where are they from? How far did they travel? Were the workers paid fairly? Imagine the impact of choosing blooms from local growers—supporting families right here in Michigan and keeping your dollars in the local economy. Not to mention, locally grown flowers are fresher, more sustainable, and often more vibrant.

Food: Flavor Meets Sustainability

Food is another big-ticket item to consider. Is it served in a way that aligns with your values? What’s the environmental impact of your menu choices? And how much food will end up wasted?

Consider this: How would it feel to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal made with fresh, local ingredients? What if leftovers were composted or donated instead of tossed in the trash?

The Bottom Line: Reflect Before You Buy

At the end of the day, this is about you and your vision. My advice? Pause. Reflect. Make intentional choices. If something is truly important to you, go for it—but do so with sustainability in mind.