The candles used during the ceremony are a great place to start. Depending on your ceremony, these can number into the hundreds or just be the unity candles. 100% soy candles appear the same as the paraffin wax candles but are better for the environment. Use the ones with organic cotton wicks for a clean burning candle. These are easy to find locally so you can support your local economy.
Silk flowers are not what they used to be. There are option available that you would have a hard time know the real from the fake without touching them. The benefit of these is multi-fold. Since they are not real there is no worry about the bloom or how they stand as this is all within the control of the one arranging them. They can be buds or full bloom and stand or bend in any way imaginable.
The centerpiece of the tables makes quite a statement. Here is complete creative freedom.
Hand-blown recycled glass can be found in all different colors. Bamboo bowls and baskets are also a great option. Fill these with the fruit and nuts that are in season for an edible centerpiece. If floral arrangements are a must, try organic flowers or silk flowers for something different. An unusual centerpiece would be an Ecosphere. These are self-contained, self-sustaining little worlds and can be given as a gift once the evening is over.
Once the couple has said their “I dos”, traditionally rice is thrown. Here is where a decoration becomes practical. Each guest can get a decorated bamboo box that hold birdseed. The birdseed will be eaten by the birds so nothing gets left behind and the boxes can be taken home and used again and again by the guests.
Place cards can seem like incredible waste of paper.
Make them something memorable and recyclable by using seeded paper. The cards are available seeded with wildflowers to be planted and enjoyed. This would be a wedding they would not soon forget.
Large amounts of flowers are typical for ceremony and reception. Flowering plants or bushes can be just as beautiful and can be used for both settings. The happy couple can then take them home to plant them to have a living, growing reminder of the life they are building together and a daily reminder of that special day.
There are any number of ideas for green wedding decorations. A little imagination and almost anything can be substituted with a green option. Each couple is unique and will find what is best for them and their conscience. The options are there for a do-it-yourself project or simply purchasing what is necessary.
