Unless you've been living under a rock
on Mars, you might be aware of a not so little issue called global warming. The
big fight back involves all of us trying to make a difference in any way we
can, and you won't have an opportunity as perfect to do your bit than during
your nuptials.
If you're in the dark about being
green, then we have got some great ways for you to save the planet and still
have a fun, fabulous and fancy wedding.
Do Good Diamonds
Unless you decide to go retro, the
chances are that you're going to buy a diamond ring. Get brownie points and
feel good about splashing out on a conflict free diamond. ‘Blood diamonds' as
they are otherwise known, are mined in war zones and fund conflict. They often
involve child labour and the bounty made from them cost millions of lives.
Don't support this trade and ensure
you buy a diamond ring that isn't contributing to someone else's misery. Ask
your jeweller where they purchase their diamonds from and if they are classed
as ‘conflict free diamonds.' You can still get a decent price and gorgeous
diamond that isn't violating human rights.
Tree Hugging Invites
The first impression of your wedding
is going to be made through your invites. So set a good example and send out
invitations printed on recycled paper. Now before you start thinking its going
to be a case of brown sugar paper and everyone thinking you're planning a
wedding on the cheap, reign in your imagination and come back to reality.
Recycled paper has come a long way, and the quality now is very good. Ask your
printer if you can use recycled or tree free paper made from bamboo. If you
want to do something that is equally stylish try invitations made from fabric.
Offset the Jet Set Honeymoon
No need to cancel the exotic
honeymoon, you can still make a difference by offsetting your carbon emissions.
Sounds very scientific and complicated but it really couldn't be simpler.
Because you're more than likely going to take a plane to your honeymoon
hotspot, you can balance out the environmental costs of your journey.
Carbon offsetting allows you to
compensate for your emissions by helping fund projects that deliver an
equivalent CO2 saving elsewhere. There are government approved schemes, which
will benefit from your money, just visit
www.direct.gov.uk/ActonCO2 for
further information and how to calculate your balance
Eat your Greens
Why not go for a sans meat menu?
Controversial option but still a delicious one none the less. If you think that
there might be a riot after the registry then try a low meat feast. Meat uses
up a lot of environmental juice, so spare the earth and the little creatures by
going old school Indian. There's plenty to chose from and it might even be a
lot cheaper, bonus
The Short Winding Road
When it comes to choosing a wedding
venue, try to consider the distance that your guests will have to travel. The
majority will probably be arriving by car, so the further away your venue, the
further your petrol polluting guests will have to go. Encourage them car-pool,
not to the extent that's its dangerous, but where all seats are used, the boot
does not qualify. You can also give the country air a breather and opt for a
green Limo or car, or if you really want to go one step further arrive in style
on a horse drawn carriage.