Planning an Eco-friendly beach wedding: celebrate love with Nature in Mind
Choose a Sustainable Venue
Topsail Beach Parks and Outdoor Venues is a great place to start! Consider hosting your wedding at a local beach park or outdoor space that emphasizes conservation and sustainability. Topsail Island has several beautiful, natural spots that can host your ceremony without disturbing the environment. If you’re dreaming of a sand-between-your-toes ceremony at the beachfront, work with local authorities to ensure you’re following the proper guidelines and leave no trace behind.
Eco-Friendly Invitations
Digital Invites are a great way to save paper by sending digital wedding invitations. Apps like Greenvelope or Paperless Post offer beautiful, customizable designs. If you want a physical invitation, seed paper is a super eco-friendly material, your guest can receive your invitation and plant afterwards. You can find biodegradable paper made with wildflower seeds that will bloom into a beautiful garden.
Sustainable Decor
Locally Sourced Flowers are an easy way to start. You can work with local florists who source their flowers organically or grow them sustainably. Alternatively, use native plants that are already thriving in the area, such as coastal grasses or wildflowers. Included in your decor consider recycled or reusable Decor like multipurpose items that you can opt for instead. Decor that can be reused or repurposed after the event. Think about fabric banners, wooden signage, and lanterns that can find a new life at home or be donated.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Attire
Vintage or Second Hand Dresses can be unique and affordable. Instead of buying a new wedding dress, consider buying a secondhand one or even renting. You can also check out local boutiques for pre-loved dresses. Sustainable Fabrics are also a great way to look when aiming for eco-friendly. Search for dresses and suits made from materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. This can also include minimalistic accessories, opposed to disposable items, choosing items that can be reused, like a simple veil or a vintage headpiece can save you money and the environment.
Zero-Waste Catering
Local, Seasonal Foods is a great option you should consider. You can work with a caterer that uses local, sustainable ingredients. Topsail Island’s proximity to the ocean means fresh seafood is abundant, so consider including local catches on your menu. Steering away from disposable plates, cups and cutlery and instead opting for more eco-friendly options. Use reusable or compostable tableware, or better yet, rent quality china and glassware from a local supplier.
Transportation
Carpool or Shuttle Services are a great way to reduce your wdding’s carbon footprint by organizing transportation for your guests. A shuttle bus, group carpooling, or renting eco-friendly vehicles can minimize the number of cars on the road. Other options include bike rentals for the more adventurous guests, offer bike rentals to get to the venue or to explore Topsail Island’s beauty in a sustainable way.
Edible Favors can give guests something they’ll enjoy and consume, like locally made jams, honey, or sustainable snacks. You could also consider donating to an environmental cause in their name. Reusable gifts for your guests that are eco-conscious items like bamboo straws, reusable shopping bags, or potted plants make great, lasting favors.
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Composting and Recycling Stations can help make it easy for your guests to dispose of waste responsibly by setting up clear composting and recycling stations. Minimal Waste Catering is an eco-friendly option. Work with your caterer to avoid food waste by preparing the right amount of food, or donate any excess to local shelters.
Support Local Businesses
Hire local vendors who are committed to sustainability, such as local florists, photographers, or artists. Supporting small businesses in Topsail will not only reduce your wedding’s carbon footprint but also strengthen the local economy!
Leave No Trace
After your celebration, make sure to leave the beach as pristine as it was before you arrived. Consider hiring a clean-up crew to help restore the space to its natural state.
By incorporating these eco-friendly practices into your wedding, you’ll be able to say “I do” to both your partner and to preserving the stunning beauty of Topsail, NC!
