Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and in Texas, we do things big! But that doesn't mean we can't do BIG things in a sustainable way. Texan couples are infusing their weddings with eco-friendly options while still capturing that authentic Texas charm. From the Hill Country to the Gulf Coast, here are some tips for creating a memorable and sustainable Texas wedding.
Exchanging nuptials in the presence of family and friends is one of the most important rites of passage that we’ll experience in our lives. Unfortunately, weddings large and small can generate huge amounts of waste.
Those who are sustainably minded can make better choices for the biggest day in their lives.
Embrace Environmental Invitations: Invitations set the tone for your wedding, but they don’t have to come at the expense of the environment. Reduce paper waste by using electronic invitations. Plus, they offer endless customizable options. Manage your RSVPs and guest lists on your computer or phone. You can also send your potential guests calendar invitations so they can be sure that your big day won’t be forgotten. Don’t forget that traditional paper invitations can be very costly. The money you save could be put towards a spectacular honeymoon!
Swap Cut Flowers with Live Plants: Incorporate live, potted plants and flowers into your wedding décor. Many plants bloom almost year-round like lantana, rosemary, and dianthus. These plants have a stunning array of colorful blooms that can add natural beauty to your wedding venue. You can also consider using potted succulents or cacti as centerpieces. All of these can be planted afterward or given as gifts to wedding attendees once the event is over.
Choose Sustainable Materials: Opt for décor made from sustainable materials that reflect the rugged beauty of Texas. Look for reclaimed wood, recycled glassware, and cotton linens. Incorporate cowboy boots as vases, use vintage maps of the state as table runners, or hang strings of chili peppers as festive garlands. No doubt you can find more than one way to incorporate a lasso or two into your wedding. These materials not only reduce waste but also add a rustic charm to your wedding décor that perfectly represents the Texas landscape.
Go For a Green Venue: While you may not find a location that advertises itself as “green,” you can find venues that need little to no décor. Consider outdoor locations like ranches, botanical gardens, vineyards, and museums, which thrive on their visual presentation. Take advantage of the work they’ve already done and streamline your wedding. You’ll also save some money by not purchasing extra décor. Sometimes that’s the best kind of green you can have. Natural settings also make great backgrounds for wedding photos. An old rustic stable, meadow, or riverside would make much better photos than church cafeteria lighting.
Choose a Sustainable Caterer: Selecting a sustainable caterer is a powerful way to reduce your environmental footprint without compromising on taste and quality. Research caterers who source their items locally and support local farmers. Ask about their packaging practices, if they use compostable materials, and if they reuse materials. Caterers may offer reusable flatware and silverware for your guests if you don’t want to use disposable plates and utensils. You can ask for reusable napkins so you can cut down on your paper waste. Lastly, you can always make a special request for any leftover wedding food to be packaged up and distributed to your guests. Or check with a local homeless shelter and inquire if they would accept your food donations.
By embracing Texas traditions and going for a sustainable event, you can create a wedding that feels uniquely Texan while still being environmentally conscious.
