7 Ways to Make Your Wedding Greener

Weddings are a very important celebration--for the bride, groom, friends, and family members. Who would think that such a happy celebration could wreak havoc on the environment? Unfortunately, if you don't make conscious green choices, a wedding can be bad for the environment.

So here are seven ways you can make your wedding just a little bit more eco-friendly.

1. Pick a central location for your wedding ceremony and reception so that the amount of wedding guests who have to travel long distances are kept to a minimum.

2. Save some trees by choosing invitations made from recycled paper or paper alternatives. You can even choose environmentally friendly inks.

3. Go for a gently used gown instead of buying brand new. Wear a dress that a friend or family member has worn before you, or shop second hand stores, thrift stores, and consignment shops.

4. Register for a cause. Have guests donate to your favorite organization, or register with companies that donate a percentage of your bought gifts to an organization.

5. Choose PC flowers--politically correct flowers that are not grown or harvested by exploited workers.

6. Choose local and seasonal foods for your menu. Try to avoid foods grown with dangerous pesticides.

7. Wedding favors should serve a purpose beyond your wedding day. Plastic doodads that wind up in the trash are not eco-friendly.

If you're interested in leaving a smaller carbon footprint behind from your wedding celebration, follow these seven guidelines and your footprint will shrink.