Celebrating Sustainability: Eco-friendly Weddings and Events

In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming more of a priority, many events (and event planners, like JayBird Events) are opting for eco-friendly offerings to elevate their event while minimizing their ecological footprint.

Tips to create a one-of-a-kind, eco-conscious event!

Embrace “Green” Choices

From invitations to decor, every aspect of an eco-friendly event is thoughtfully curated to minimize waste and promote sustainability. Couples and event organizers are opting for digital invitations created through easy DIY sites like Canva or Paperless Post, reducing the need for paper consumption and mail services. Many are also choosing to reduce the amount of fresh floral decor they need by repurposing ceremony flowers at the reception or moving arrangements from the registration table to the bar as the night goes on. Another great option is renting artificial flower arrangements that can be returned to a local small business in the Denver area and re-used at other events!

Sustainable Attire

Many couples are opting for vintage or second-hand wedding dresses and suits, reducing the demand for new garments and promoting reuse. Some eco-conscious brides are choosing dresses made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp or bamboo. These choices not only reduce the environmental impact but also promote ethical and fair labor practices.

Organizers and attendees of a non-profit gala or school fundraiser can also opt for sustainable attire by shopping at local thrift stores for their outfits, rather than going out and buying something new. When choosing the perfect ‘fit for an event, consider “shopping” your own closet, or that of a friend. This can lessen the impact of an outfit on the planet, and your bank account! Plus…who hasn’t wanted to raid the closet of a fashionable friend?

Mindful Catering

When choosing catering, consider opting for locally sourced, organic and seasonal ingredients for your menu. This not only supports local farmers in Colorado but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Many eco-conscious event organizers are promoting compostable plates and silverware as opposed to disposables that will never biodegrade in a landfill or rented place settings that take gallons of water to wash for the next event. Take it a step further and partner with a local compost company to prevent your food from ending up in the landfill!

Minimize Waste

The goal of an eco-friendly event is to minimize waste wherever possible. Encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles (or emotional support water bottles 😂) to reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles. If you are considering the need for wedding favors, look for sustainable and locally made gifts or charitable donations in lieu of traditional favors that often get thrown out or left behind. The same goal can be applied to ordering necessities for events, many companies like Amazon will suggest shipping multiple items in the same box to cut down on materials used and multiple deliveries. Better yet, try to locate products locally, rather than shipping it. Many decor items can even be found by searching Facebook Marketplace!

Sustainable Transportation

Encourage guests to carpool or provide a shuttle service to reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel to and from the venue. Some may even choose eco-friendly transportation options such as bicycles or electric vehicles for their wedding day transportation. We’ve all seen the electric scooters and bikes all over Denver and some guests may choose to ride those to the celebration! This can be a safe and encouraged suggestion at events where alcohol is being served. 

Choose An Eco-Friendly Path

As you plan your event, try not to be overwhelmed by the many options available. Keep in mind that an eco-friendly event doesn’t have to incorporate EVERY eco-friendly choice to make an impact! We invite you to make mindful choices throughout the planning process. As more individuals embrace eco-conscious celebrations, it will inspire others to follow suit!

Consider using an eco-minded event planner or coordinator like us at JayBird Events to take your event to the next level and keep sustainability at the forefront.