There are probably as many ways to green up a wedding as there are weddings—starting with the save the date announcements to the honeymoon. So here I’ll outline a few specific to the floral aspect of the wedding.
1. Consider using local flowers instead of flowers shipped from somewhere else. (Nearly 80% of the fresh cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported from another country!) Several local farms are growing more than vegetables.
2. Also consider plants instead of or in addition to cut flowers. Unlike flowers, the plants will continue to live—centerpieces can double as guest gifts. Here in Texas, there is an amazing variety of succulents. Most of them have beautiful rosette shapes with dramatic blooms. I often use flowers as an accent, with plants being the majority of the “floral.” Best of all, after the big party, you can plant your bouquet and boutonniere.
3. Spice things up with herbs. You can plant small containers with herbs of the season and have your guests take them home as a memento. You can get really creative with the containers you use. It’s worth noting, utilizing centerpieces or herbs as gifts is doubly green because it eliminates the packaging and carbon footprint created by a whole new gift.
4. Ask your florist to forgo the plastic boxes generally used in delivering your boutonnieres and corsages. Maybe you or your mom has a beautiful platter you can have them use instead.
5. Plant a tree (or trees). For as little as $1 a tree, you can have trees planted in the name of your wedding party, or all your guests. Many reputable organizations are offering the service, including The Nature Conservancy. (nature.org).
