Sustainable Wedding Choices for Irish Couples
Environmental consciousness doesn't mean sacrificing style. Irish couples are pioneering creative ways to celebrate sustainably while supporting local businesses and reducing waste.
Sustainable Venues
Choose venues with green credentials - solar power, rainwater harvesting, waste management. Consider outdoor ceremonies in natural settings. Select venues close to ceremony to reduce transport. Support venues with local sourcing policies. Ask about recycling and composting facilities. Historic buildings often have better insulation than marquees.
Local and Seasonal Catering
Source ingredients from Irish farms and producers. Design menu around seasonal availability. Offer vegetarian/vegan options to reduce carbon footprint. Use tap water in beautiful jugs instead of bottled. Donate leftover food to local charities. Choose wines from European vineyards over New World.
Sustainable Flowers
Use Irish-grown, seasonal flowers exclusively. Avoid floral foam - use sustainable mechanics. Potted plants as centerpieces guests can take home. Wildflower arrangements supporting biodiversity. Donate arrangements to hospitals after wedding. Dried flowers for lasting keepsakes.
Eco-Friendly Invitations
Digital invitations save paper and postage. Seed paper invitations that grow wildflowers. Recycled paper with vegetable-based inks. Single invitation per household. Wedding website for all detailed information. RSVP online to reduce return post.
Sustainable Fashion
Buy pre-loved or vintage wedding dress. Rent suits instead of buying. Choose outfits wearable after wedding. Support Irish designers and makers. Natural fabrics over synthetic. Donate or sell dress after wedding.
Responsible Favors
Edible favors from local producers (honey, jam, chocolate). Donations to environmental charities. Seed packets for Irish wildflowers. Potted herbs or succulents. Skip favors and upgrade dessert instead. Homemade treats in reusable containers.
Transport Solutions
Provide shuttle buses from ceremony to reception. Encourage carpooling with guest coordination. Choose venues accessible by public transport. Walking procession for village weddings. Electric or hybrid wedding cars. Offset carbon emissions from guest travel.
Waste Reduction
Real plates and cutlery (no disposables). Cloth napkins and tablecloths. Clearly marked recycling stations. Compost organic waste. Digital photo sharing instead of disposable cameras. Returnable containers for bar service.
Success Story
"Our eco-wedding actually saved money! Local, seasonal flowers were cheaper, digital invites saved hundreds, and our donated favors meant more than traditional gifts. Guests loved our values-driven choices." - Róisín, 2023