June is now behind us, but there are still many weddings planned for the summer and beyond. Weddings have become big business. Too big in fact – with costs spiralling higher and higher. While the “big day” should be special and incorporate plenty of important moments, there’s no reason it should all be so expensive. In some ways, the current obsession with “better” and more lavish ceremonies needs to be laid to rest with other consumer madness.
It doesn’t take a lot of money to celebrate the love between two people. It just requires family and friends and some festive opportunities. Some creativity and personal touches will make for a memorable day – no debt necessary. Starting out a new life together after blowing $20,000 or more is not very relaxed, not to mention the overwhelming pressure leading up to the special day. If huge sums of money are involved, then choosing exactly the right item – whether dress, suit, cake, flowers, rings, venue, etc. – becomes incredibly important.
Be warned – even the most modest celebration seems to expand before your very eyes. So set out what’s crucial to you, and then stick to it as much as possible. Also think about the guest list since more people = more money. Invite only the people you want around you.
Clothes
While Vera Wang gowns might be featured in the wedding fashion magazines, they are not essential. Remember, it’s a dress you will wear once. One option is to get out the sewing machine. Homemade gowns are making a return, as they allow brides to express individuality and customize their look. Eco-friendly fabrics can be incorporated into the design, although they can be a little harder to find in bridal styles. Not the sewing type? If there is no willing friend or relative, wedding gown designers, seamstresses, and tailors should all be receptive to incorporating eco-fabrics into designs. Above all, try to avoid unsustainable clothing, whether it has been made under poor working conditions, using harmful chemicals, or other questionable practices.
Food
Fresh, locally-grown, and organic options will delight your guests. Whether you choose a caterer, some good home-cooking, or hotel kitchen, opt for quality local ingredients. Free-range and hormone-free meat will taste better, and remember that vegetarian choices are no longer restricted to a simple nut loaf or pasta. Homemade cakes and cupcakes taste just as sweet and can reflect your taste for the classic or unusual.
Venue
Make it meaningful. Get married in your favourite garden or building. It’s even better if your guests won’t need to travel very far. Exotic beach weddings may be lovely, but they create soaring travel and hotel costs. Check whether the location has recycling and composting facilities. If not, it might be possible to start these initiatives – and they could be a lasting legacy if the trend takes hold.
Other Stuff
Need flowers? Make them environmentally friendly. Choose locally grown varieties and opt for organic when possible. An interesting arrangement of simple flowers can be as effective as hothouse-grown exotics. If you are having a garden wedding, let living plants provide the backdrop.
As for invitations, the internet has made it simple to coordinate invitations, information, and responses. Set up a wedding website or use one of the many invitation organizers already online. You can always call the few people who lack internet access. If paper is absolutely necessary, such as for thank you notes, use recycled or non-pulp options.
Exchanging rings? Look out for fair trade gold and platinum, or opt for vintage or recycled. Tip: Canadian mined diamonds are conflict-free.
Wedding favours are another stumbling block. One option is to go favour-free. If that doesn’t sit right, maybe there is a sustainable possibility. Floral centerpieces, small “guest” cakes or cookies, jars of homemade jam or honey, or knitted fish – pick any theme and match your skill set (or those of friends and family members).
As for gifts, it’s a good time to think outside the box. Many couples have already acquired household items before deciding to marry. Rather than starting a typical gift registry and amassing unnecessary fine china and small appliances, consider what would be really useful. Family, friends, and colleagues could contribute to a larger item. Designate a charity for contributions in your names. Ask for personal gifts like poems recited or songs sung at the wedding, or perhaps a handmade customized item or piece of art. You will remember these gifts far longer.
Photo credit: Katie’s small world@Flickr.com
