Planning a wedding or honeymoon during a climate crisis can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. The average wedding creates four times the carbon footprint of one person’s yearly emissions, but small choices can make a big difference.

Here are 5 easy tips to help you cut waste, lower emissions, and save money — so you can celebrate your love without costing the earth.

Tip 1: Think twice before buying decor online

It’s tempting to grab cheap decorations from online shops, but many are single-use, made from carbon-heavy materials, and shipped from far away — wrapped in plastic that ends up in landfill.

Instead, try hiring plants or decor from local suppliers. It’s better for the planet and keeps items in use beyond your big day. Choosing a naturally beautiful venue also means you’ll need less decor — saving you time, money, and stress.

Some venues even offer free decorations! For example, Blackfriars Priory has a decor store with wood slices, vases, fairy lights and more, ready for couples to borrow.

Credit Left - Pix.all, Right - Kelly Hiscox Photography

Tip 2: Go green with your catering

Food choices have a big impact on your wedding’s carbon footprint — especially meat like beef, lamb and pork. Even swapping one course for a plant-based option can make a real difference.

Plant-based doesn’t mean boring! Caterers like Berry Blue and Poco Culina offer tasty bites like Mediterranean feasts, mini veggie burgers, truffle potatoes, and delicious mains from pizza to afternoon tea. It’s kinder to the planet, and still totally indulgent.

Tip 3: Pick a venue that’s easy to reach

Choosing a location with good public transport links is a simple way to cut down on travel emissions. Even better, encourage guests to hop on the bus or train — it’s cheaper, greener, and saves you the hassle of arranging group transport or designated drivers.

City venues also come with a bonus: loads of great photo spots! Take a stroll, strike a pose, and soak up the buzz — it’s your day, and the city is your backdrop.

Tip 4: Go green with your florist

Flowers add beauty to your big day — but they can also add to your carbon footprint. Choosing a local florist who uses seasonal blooms and minimal packaging is a great way to keep things sustainable. Traditional flower growing often involves plastic foam, trims, and refrigeration, all of which come with environmental costs.

For a stunning and eco-friendly alternative, consider hiring living plants. They create dramatic backdrops and can be reused or replanted after the celebration — a win for you and the planet!

H & E chose palm trees to add a dramatic Ibiza inspired backdrop.

Tip 5: Say yes to second-hand style

Wedding outfits don’t have to be brand new to be beautiful. Shopping second-hand — through bridal resale sites, suit hire companies, or platforms like eBay, Vinted and Depop — can save you hundreds (even thousands!) and is a win for the planet too.

You might even score a designer piece for a fraction of the price. Unlike fast fashion sites, which often use unsustainable materials and rack up carbon emissions through long-distance shipping, second-hand keeps clothes in circulation and reduces waste.

So go ahead — find your dream outfit with a clear conscience and a lighter footprint.

A mixture of gorgeous second hand bridesmaids dresses.

These are just a few simple ways to make your big day more planet-friendly — and the best part is, you don’t have to compromise on style or joy to do it. With a little creativity, your wedding can be both unforgettable and ethical. 💚

Want more inspiration? Join us at the Eco Wedding Festival on Sunday 5th October! Expect a fun, festival-style day packed with brilliant ideas, amazing suppliers, and plenty of ways to celebrate your love sustainably.

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