Sustainability: A goal we all aim for on some level. But, when it comes to your wedding flowers, how can you (and your florist!) work to make your big day better for the environment?
First thing’s first. Shop local!
Because the U.S. has a relatively short growing season, a lot of wedding flowers have to be imported. As an unfortunate result, transporting them creates millions of tons of carbon emissions each year. To keep your wedding flowers as “green” as possible, start by researching your local growing season! You can always ask your florist what local farms they work with and what blooms are available at different times of the year.
Did you know: Locally grown flowers typically last longer?
By limiting transport time, your stems get more time to shine instead of being packed in boxes. Also, going from farm to vase means your flowers don’t have to go through any climate changes – another factor that shortens their life. Because local flowers are already acclimated to your area’s weather, there are less surprises for how they will look & act on the day of the event! By asking your florist to source local blooms whenever possible, you support small farmers and reduce your carbon footprint!
You’ve sourced locally grown flowers. Now what?
We’ve all heard it a million times, but single-use plastic is a no-go. Instead, ask your florist if they have alternatives for materials like cellophane and floral foam when creating your wedding flowers. Some great options include chicken wire, straw and even moss. For bouquets, ask that they be wrapped in paper instead of the typical cellophane you see at chain stores.
Another option for eco-friendly wedding flowers is, in fact, not flowers at all! But instead, consider using green plants as altar arrangements or centerpieces. Not only do potted plants last longer, they can be repotted after your wedding to enjoy beyond the reception!
A final trendy & sustainable option for your event is one that’s been all over the internet: “green” confetti. Flower petals (both fresh and dried) as well as foliage make great options for this eco-friendly twist on an old tradition. Ask your florist for remnants of flowers and greens as they’re making your arrangements. Not only are these natural materials fully compostable, you can even DIY their shape using paper cutters!
Something old. Something new. Something green. Something blue.
We know wedding planning is already a huge time (and brain space) commitment. However, these methods are easy tweaks that can help your big day make a big impact. And if you really don’t want to stress about finding green alternatives, you can always leave it to the pros. Our team at Blooms is here to bring all your wedding dreams & goals to life. Start by scheduling your free consultation with us today.