“Creating a Sustainable Wedding: A Photographer’s Perspective”

Planning a kick-ass Sustainable Wedding.

When it comes to creating a sustainable wedding, it’s so awesome when couples to infuse their special day with personal touches and meaningful details. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly weddings, with couples looking for ways to minimise their environmental impact without sacrificing style. As a UK wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing and capturing these thoughtful, eco-conscious celebrations, and I’m excited to share some insights and tips for creating a sustainable wedding experience.

It doesn’t have to be boring, it can be Sustainable and also Stylish!

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the opportunity to collaborate with couples who are passionate about sustainability but also style. From the initial planning stages to the final touches on the big day, I’ve seen firsthand how small, intentional choices can make a significant difference in reducing waste and environmental impact. One particular aspect of wedding photography that often aligns with sustainability efforts is morning prep. It’s a time when I have the chance to create a beautiful lay flat display using the details provided by the couple. From some rad custom stationery to the most colourful floral arrangements, these elements not only add depth and beauty to the wedding gallery but also serve as a canvas for weaving sustainable practices into the process.

TEXAS INSPIRED STATIONERY BY PEACH WOLFE

Wedding Florists Listen Up!

I’ll never forget the time when a florist surprised me with a unique opportunity to incorporate sustainability into the morning lay flat. Instead of discarding the offcuts from the flowers that weren’t used in the main bouquet and room arrangements, the florist offered them to me to include in the lay flat display. This was such a rad idea, it not only added texture and colour and texture to the photos but also tied in with the overall theme of the day. It was a small yet impactful way to repurpose materials that might have otherwise been discarded, giving them a new life in the wedding photos.

By embracing this sustainable approach, we were able to elevate the visual storytelling of the wedding day while minimising waste. The repurposed flower offcuts not only added an extra layer of beauty to the morning photos but also served as a meaningful reminder of the couple’s commitment to sustainability.

As I reflected on this experience, I realised that there are countless ways to weave sustainability into the fabric of a wedding celebration. For couples seeking to make their special day more eco-friendly, here are a few practical and creative ideas to consider:

Sustainable Stationery:

Explore options for eco-friendly wedding invitations and stationery, such as recycled paper or plantable seed paper that guests can later plant and grow into wildflowers.

Thoughtful Favours:

Instead of traditional favours that may be left behind or unused, consider giving guests sustainable gifts, such as potted plants, locally sourced honey, or handmade soaps.

Ethical Catering:

Work with a caterer who priorities locally sourced, organic, and seasonal ingredients, reducing the carbon footprint of the wedding menu.

Up-cycled Decor:

Embrace the beauty of up-cycled and repurposed decor items, such as vintage vases, reclaimed wood signage, or thrifted table settings.

Eco-conscious Transportation:

Encourage guests to carpool, use public transportation, or provide a bus to reduce emissions and minimise the environmental impact of travel to the wedding venue.

Sustainable Registry:

Opt for a wedding registry that includes eco-friendly, ethically sourced, and sustainable home goods and experiences rather than traditional material gifts.

By incorporating these sustainable practices into wedding planning, couples have the opportunity to make a positive impact and set an inspiring example for their guests. Not only does this reflect their values and commitment to environmental stewardship, but it also creates a more meaningful and memorable wedding experience for everyone involved.

STATIONERY BY CHLOE AINSLEY

As a wedding photographer…

I am continually inspired by the creativity and thoughtfulness that couples bring to their sustainable weddings. Each decision, whether it’s choosing locally grown flowers, opting for up-cycled furniture, or supporting ethical and eco-conscious vendors, contributes to a collective effort to reduce waste and celebrate love in harmony with the natural world. Furthermore, the impact of a sustainable wedding extends far beyond the day of the celebration. The values and practices embraced during the wedding planning process can inspire long-lasting changes in the way couples approach their daily lives, encouraging a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.

In my own journey as a wedding photographer, I am committed to supporting and capturing these sustainable celebrations. By sharing the stories and beautiful imagery from these eco-conscious weddings, I hope to inspire others to consider the environmental impact of their own celebrations and explore creative ways to make a positive difference. Through collaboration and shared intention, we can work towards creating more sustainable and environmentally friendly wedding experiences that not only reflect the beauty of love and commitment but also honor and respect the natural world.

60s INSPIRED STATIONERY BY SUNDOWN PAPER

It’s NOT just a trend!

In conclusion, sustainability in weddings is not just a trend; it’s a meaningful and impactful way to celebrate love while caring for the planet. From small, thoughtful choices to larger, intentional decisions, every step towards a sustainable wedding contributes to a brighter and more eco-conscious future.

As we continue to explore new ways to celebrate love in harmony with the earth, I am excited to see the growing momentum of sustainable weddings and the positive influence they have on couples, vendors, and guests alike.

Here’s to love, commitment, and a beautiful, sustainable future! ???????? 

If you want to find out more on how you can make your wedding more sustainable then HIT ME UP HERE! or if you want to get inspired then check out my HIGHLIGHTS from previous weddings.