As the world becomes ?greener?, you may want to consider options that will make sure your special day doesn?t leave a lasting imprint on the environment, but how? There are plenty of ways to save on waste (and sometimes cash) without compromising quality. It all boils down to the three concepts you learned in grammar school: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Go Local.?You can reduce carbon emissions and stimulate your local economy by choosing products within your area. Though local catering is usually what comes to mind, going local isn?t necessarily limited to food; there may also be resident wineries, breweries or distilleries from whom you can get your alcohol. Likewise, buying flowers that are native to your wedding venue will drastically cut down on carbon emissions and waste, just be sure to keep an open mind depending on what season your wedding is in.

Reduce paper products.?Seating charts and?ceremony programs?are two major areas in which you can reduce your paper consumption. Practical programs, such as fans, will serve a dual purpose for your guests, both cooling and informing them about the ceremony. Seating charts can be written on virtually anything that fits in with your wedding?s theme. Windows, vintage doors and chalkboards can all be used to direct your guests to their seats and will be visually stimulating. (Which means you?ll have great pictures!)

Image: Amanda Marie Studio, Whim Events & Strawberry Smallworks

?Use succulents.?Succulents are an amazing way to bring sustainability to your arrangements without having so sacrifice beautiful flowers. Pick a few of your favorite blooms and let the succulents be the fillers. They?re unique, eco-friendly, and when your wedding is over, you can take them home and plant them!

Repurpose vases.?Recycle any old receptacles you may have and use them as the vases for your centerpieces! Whether it?s light bulbs, milk or perfume bottles, the uniqueness of these vases will attract a lot of attention and reduce waste.

?Replant the love.?Have your favors be something that allows your guests to give back to the earth. Whether it?s flower bulbs, trees, or seeds, giving favors is always very popular (and highly sustainable)!

What other eco-friendly wedding ideas do you have?

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