Go Green with Wedding Floral

Many green wedding options are very straight forward, such as choosing a gown made of sustainable materials, picking an outdoor venue, and going with organic food options.

However, many brides and grooms-to-be forget about details such as their wedding floral, which will play an important part in your big day. Whether it’s the bouquet, the reception table centerpieces, or general decor, floral is a focal point in every wedding.

Choosing floral that is environmentally friendly doesn’t have to limit your options, as long as you know where to look. Whether your wedding is in a garden, or in the desert, you can find the perfect floral to compliment your wedding day vision.

Choose a Theme

Going green doesn’t mean you’ll need to sacrifice your vision, there are plenty of options available for every wedding, no matter what theme serves as your inspiration.

For example, rustic weddings can be complimented by succulent floral, which is unique and equally diverse as traditional flowers.

Many people mistake succulents for cacti, which gives us the impression of a dull and monotone palette.

However, succulents come in many sizes, shapes, and colors, most have flowers that are just as vibrant.

These can be easily worked into the bridal bouquet, the groom’s boutonniere, and the guest table centerpieces. If you’re set on flowers, you still have plenty of options, as long as you go by a few guidelines which are covered below.

Research the Season

Any flower that is out of season will need to be imported: whether it’s from halfway around the world, or the next county, this will entail transportation by means that are not eco-friendly.

Once you’ve set your wedding date, research the season and find out what is grown locally at that time. This will help open up your options and help you determine exactly what will be available for your wedding day. Planning a year in advance can help you see your options in person, via a local organic grower or green florist.

Go to the Source

The source of your floral will also determine whether or not it can be considered green.

Rare, exotic flowers that are not native to your area must be flown in, and those not in season will be imported from distant sources; which means it’s not an environmentally friendly option. When you consult with local florists, be sure you know where they get their flowers.

Although the flower may be in season, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s grown locally; take the time to find local growers that offer organic floral options. Or, you can skip the middle man all together and grow it yourself, or enlist the help of a friend with a garden.

Consider Alternatives

Wedding floral doesn’t have to involve live plants and floral. Many green weddings today feature bouquets made of uncommon materials, such as whimsical vintage brooches, buttons, sea shells, feathers, vines, or even fabric or paper flowers.

This makes for a unique floral alternative that is sure to be remembered. Make sure you consider the materials used in these bouquets: that they are sustainable, recycled or re-purposed.