How to Plan an Eco-Friendly Wedding
The average wedding produces 400 pounds of garbage and, according to Bloomberg, 63 tons of CO2. That’s equivalent to what four people might emit in an entire year! The good news: planning an eco-friendly wedding doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance, beauty, or luxury. With thoughtful choices, your celebration can be as sustainable as it is stunning. For couples planning their dream day at a picturesque Saugatuck wedding venue, a chic Michigan wedding venue, or even a serene wedding venue on Lake Michigan, the opportunity to blend natural beauty with eco-conscious decisions is immense. Here’s how to plan an eco-friendly wedding.
Choose a Sustainable Venue
Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding. Opting for a location that prioritizes sustainability is one of the most impactful decisions you can make. Look for venues that use renewable energy, have recycling or composting systems, and partner with wedding vendors to minimize transportation emissions.
In Michigan, historic wedding venues like The Felt Estate in Saugatuck, along Lake Michigan embrace eco-friendly practices by virtue of their natural surroundings. Our historic venue, for example, has been retrofitted with energy-efficient lighting, water systems, even a 110kW solar array while preserving their timeless charm. “The Greenest Building is the One Already Built, Carl Elefante, former president of the American Institute of Architects.
Solar array at The Felt Estate in Saugatuck, Michigan.
Prioritize Seasonal and Local Food
Farm-to-table catering isn’t just a trend; it’s also a sustainable choice. By working with caterers who source ingredients locally, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food. Seasonal menus also tend to be more fresh and flavorful.
Michigan’s agricultural abundance means you can feature locally sourced produce and meat. If you’re planning your wedding in Saugatuck or at another Lake Michigan venue, consider highlighting regional flavors in your menu. Guests will appreciate the local connection and you’ll be supporting local farmers.
Decorate with Purpose
Decor is one of the most creative and impactful ways to embrace sustainability at your wedding. Start by focusing on rentals. Renting decor items like tableware, linens, furniture, and even lighting have eco-friendly choices that also elevate the look of your event. Companies specializing in luxury rentals offer high-quality, stylish pieces that can transform your venue without generating waste.
When it comes to wedding flowers, consider alternatives to traditional cut flowers, which often require significant resources to grow and transport. Often flowers are imported from overseas if they are out-of-season locally or require a different climate to grow. Faux floral arrangements made from silk or other sustainable materials are increasingly popular and can be incredibly lifelike. They’re also reusable—perfect for creating lasting memories or even decorating your home post-wedding.
If you prefer fresh flowers, especially for personal flowers like bouquets and boutonnière, work with a florist who prioritizes locally grown, seasonal blooms. Alternatively, you can incorporate potted plants or herbs into your decor. These can double as guest favors, giving attendees a meaningful keepsake they can enjoy long after the celebration.
Think beyond flowers for other decor elements. Use upcycled or repurposed items, like vintage glassware, wooden crates, or antique mirrors, to add charm and character to your event. LED or solar-powered lighting is another eco-friendly option that creates a magical atmosphere while being energy-efficient.
eco-friendly Exits
The grand exit is one of the most memorable moments of any wedding, but it’s also an area where sustainability often gets overlooked. Instead of using fireworks, sparklers, or plastic confetti—which can harm the environment and local wildlife—opt for natural alternatives. Guests can shower you with natural options like flower petals, bird seed, or dried lavender. These options not only look stunning in photos but also leave no lasting environmental impact. Just make sure to check with your venue to ensure any materials used are allowed on-site and easy to clean up.
Wedding design by Modern Day Collectiveand plated dinner by Gilmore Catering at The Felt Estate near Saugatuck, MI along Lake Michigan.
Choose Green Transportation
How your guests arrive at your wedding can significantly impact its overall footprint. Hiring a shuttle service to reduce individual car travel not only helps reduce the carbon footprint, but also provides your guests with safe, convenient transportation - especially after drinking all night.
While international destination weddings have been popular over the years, more couples are looking for wedding venues closer to home - even if it is a destination wedding. Historic Saugatuck wedding venues like The Felt Estate offer the look and feel of a European destination wedding without the international flight, making it a popular destination for couples from Chicago, Detroit, and across the country.
Limit Waste
The easiest way to keep waste in check is to plan ahead. Opt for a plated dinner rather than a buffet to reduce food waste. Use china, flatware, and glassware instead of disposable table service. Provide clearly labeled bins for recycling and composting to make it easy for guests to dispose of items responsibly.
Another idea? Skip the party favors. Instead, make a donation to an environmental organization on behalf of your guests. It’s a meaningful gesture that aligns with the spirit of your day.
Keep It Intimate
Finally, consider keeping your guest list small. Fewer people mean less waste, lower emissions, and a more intimate atmosphere. Micro weddings have grown in popularity for a reason—they’re personal, impactful, and often more meaningful.
Planning an eco-friendly wedding is about making intentional choices that align with your values. Whether you’re hosting your celebration at a Saugatuck wedding venue or a breathtaking wedding venue along Lake Michigan, sustainability can enhance, rather than detract from, the beauty of your day. By prioritizing local resources, ethical practices, and thoughtful planning, you’ll create a wedding that’s not only unforgettable but also kinder to the planet. After all, what better way to start your life together than by honoring the world you’ll share?
The Felt Mansion is a certified LEED-EB Gold recipient (a recognition handed out by the U.S. Green Building Council). “LEED” stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and “EB” stands for “existing building.” This certification is awarded to existing buildings that are restored in an environmentally friendly manner.
Learn more about The Felt Estate’s legacy conservation and sustainability.
Photography: Kyle Paige Photography
We’re proud to support locally owned wedding venues and vendors including: Adler Ranch, The Admiral Room at The Marin, The Hillcrest Estate, Pole Barn Chic, Legacy Farms TN. If you’re a locally owned venue looking for a network of support for your small business, contact us.