Add a touch of "Green" to your wedding day.

Hosting a environmentally conscience wedding can seem overwhelming to add to your already long to-do list. Never fear, Kylee of  the Oregon Premier Bride has composed a list of 10 ideas for you! Here are the first 5 for you to look over, the rest will be online next week. 

You don't have to do all of them, instead find the one that fits your day best and then feel even more fabulous that you're doing your part to save the environment!  

1. Choose an organic caterer. 

Look for a catering company that uses locally grown organic food. This reduces the carbon emissions from transporting the food and cuts down on harmful pesticides. What to do with leftover food?  Donate it to a local shelter or food bank.

2. Use recycled paper for your invitations. 

There are many options available for your invitations including recycled, tree-free, and natural papers. You may also opt for soy-based ink that is biodegradable. Reduce the use of paper by utilizing the Internet for Save-The-Date cards, RSVP's, and a wedding website that has driving directions, lodging information and weekend events listed.

3. Give guests a sapling for a wedding favor.

Often guests have no idea what to do with the wedding favors given to them. Saplings are the perfect way for your guests to honor you and Mother Earth. The National Arbor Day Foundation will provide saplings  with a custom message fro you. 

www.arborday.org/shopping/gifttrees/wedding.cfn

4. Have gifts donated in your honor to your favorite environmental group.

Many foundations or non-profit organizations now have a registry program. Instead of a toaster or salad bowl, your guests can contribute to the foundation of your choice. A great resource is www.justgive.org.  If you still want to receive gifts (who doesn't!) then sign up at www.IDoFoundation.org first and then register with one of their foundation partners. A percentage of the gift purchases will be given to that foundation. 

5. Pick a florist who uses organic flowers.

Support local growers by choosing a florist that uses organic, local blooms. This helps reduce damage caused by transportation emissions and chemically processed flowers. 

Ok, that the first half of the list!  I love the idea of #4, where you can still get gifts but have a portion of their cost donated!  Brilliant idea...