(Photo: Phoenix Art Museum)

Happy Earth Day from BTS Event Management! In honor of conserving the planet as much as we can, it is important to consider this when planning any special event – i.e. your wedding! Green weddings are certainly on the rise, and it is simple to make these eco-friendly choices.

We’ve compiled 7 helpful tips to use when planning your big day:

Set the Tone

Choose an eco-friendly location that will show off the beautiful Arizona environment. Whether you are looking for an indoor or outdoor location, there are unique options to choose from such as local art galleries and museums, and most of them may even donate your deposit to a good cause. Check out The Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, and the monOrchid – all provide ample event spaces especially for weddings!

(Photo: Flower Bar)

Use Local Vendors

Choosing area vendors is a great way to keep the transportation emissions low and support your local economy. There are plenty of amazing, local wedding vendors that support green initiatives. The photo of the bouquet (above) is the creation of our friends at local floral design studio, Flower Bar. Your wedding planner can help you out with making these choices (ahem, BTS of course!).

Re-Use a Wedding Dress

Your wedding dress may be your most treasured item of your wedding, however, there are many ways you can be eco-friendly when it comes to selecting a dress. First is the age-old tradition of wearing your mother or grandmother’s dress. Take it to a local seamstress to transform it into your own special dress.

Choose Digital Photos

Majority of photographers are using digital cameras, and it is a must for a green wedding. Digital photos don’t use the harsh chemicals, wasted paper, and rolls of film that film photography does. You also get to choose exactly what images you want printed. Ask your photographer if they allow you to keep the digital images after the wedding is complete, then you can save a digital album of your big day.

Recycled Invites

Using recycled paper is an easy way to create green invitations or programs. Ask your local vendors if they can print on recycled paper or recycle the leftover scraps. Or you can even make it a DIY project!

Organic Menu Options

Ask your caterers if they can provide vegetarian and organic entrees. Choose a caterer who uses all or majority local produce – there are plenty in the valley! The venue you choose may already have these options available in-house, so make sure to do your research.

Favors

A couple of different options for favors. Use potted plants in your wedding so that at the end of the big day they can be given away as favors. Or instead of favors, let your guests know that you have donated a specified amount per guest toward your favorite environmental organization.

Know any other eco-friendly tips for a wedding? Let us know by commenting below this post!

Contact BTS Event Management for a complimentary consultation and let us be a part of your special day!