Eco-Chic Wedding

12 months

• Select and reserve your ceremony and reception sites. If you are celebrating your wedding outdoors, look into tent rentals.
• Choose and book an officiant who will work an eco-friendly message into your wedding ceremony.
• Meet with florists who work with local, organic farms.
• Meet with caterers and choose one who is knowledgeable about local and organic fare, and who is willing to provide vegetarian options.
• Register for gifts at housewares shops that focus on sustainable design.

10 months

• Shop for a vintage dress, one made from natural fibers, like hemp-silk, or find a simple gown that can be altered, accessorized and worn again.
• Choose a florist and pick out bouquets and arrangements made with local, seasonal flowers.
• Plan your honeymoon at an eco-resort.
• Meet with organic bakers to discuss your wedding cake.
• Start researching wedding favors, even if you're planning on giving fruit or plant items that will be purchased right before the wedding.

6 months

• Save paper by sending save-the-date announcements via e-mail or by calling out of town guests.
• Start planning your rehearsal dinner, and if it's going to be a picnic, start researching disposable dishes and flatware that's biodegradable.
• Choose wedding cosmetics that are cruelty-free and made from organic ingredients.
• Select an organic baker and order your wedding cake.
• Arrange wedding transportation, and consider using a shuttle bus to bring guests from the ceremony to the reception.
• Order 100 percent recycled stationery for programs and invitations.
• Purchase wedding rings made from recycled metals or wood.

3 months

• Discuss your wedding menu with your caterer.
• Meet with your officiant and discuss all the earth-friendly aspects of your wedding so that these ideas can be shared during ceremony.
• Mail your wedding invitations.
• Decide what your guests will be throwing instead of rice, which can be harmful to birds—wildflower seeds, flower petals or bubbles are better options.

1 month

• Write and print your wedding program on 100 percent recycled paper.
• Choose thank-you cards made of recycled paper and begin to write them as you receive wedding gifts.

2–7 days

• Choose a member of the wedding party to distribute the wildflower seeds, flower petals or bubbles that guests will be throwing instead of rice after the ceremony.
• Choose a family member or friend to collect the leftover wedding programs and recycle them.