We recently learned from the Green Bride Guide, that the average wedding in the U.S. produces 400 pounds of garbage and 63 tons of CO2. We know that for many of our clients, being ecologically responsible and reducing the carbon footprint is important. At Blame Her Ranch being green is something we are proud of and as many of you know, in 2021 we launched an Agro-ecology research center to preserve the ecology of our unique property. Because we’re located in the Southwest where water is scarce, we also encourage water-saving measures whenever possible.

So, what should be on a couple’s “green” list?

Here are a few of our best suggestions:

Dinnerware. It is easy to gravitate towards plastic cups and paper plates instead of using dinnerware.  Yes, more expensive and yes, more clean up, but the savings of trash bags full disposables more than makes up for this extra step.  If you don’t want to use real china, consider using biodegradable plates and cutlery made of bamboo which are also more ecological and a lot cuter.

Decorations.  For every wedding at BHR, we ask the couple to donate their decorations for future weddings.  While this can save you a few bucks, it also avoids buying un-recycled decorations or buying paper materials to create your own.  If you do need to create your own, please use recycled materials.

Potted flowers vs cut flowers.  While it cannot work in all situations or venues, BHR likes to suggest that couples use potted flowers and other live plants instead of cut flowers that die soon after the ceremony.  These special flowers can be taken home after the wedding and enjoyed for months and years to come.  If you do use cut flowers, we suggest composting them afterwards to make a nice “wedding mulch”.

Rent Your Dress or Buy an Eco-Friendly One.  The average bride spends between two and five thousand dollars on a dress they will wear, on average, 3 to 5 hours. You might consider renting a dress. Here are a few online retailers to explore.

The Dress Outlet

Poshare

Borrowing Magnolia

If you intend to buy a dress, how about a dress that is made with healthy materials and is free of harmful chemicals. Check out these eco-friendly wedding dress designers:

Pure Magnolia

Silviyana

Nordeen

Invitations.  Digital invitations are certainly the new trend.  If you decide to use a digital invite,  make a small contribution to an environmental organization with the money you would have spent on printed invitations. But, if your heart is set on something physical, we suggest you print your invitations on plantable seed paper or recycled paper.  Make sure you mention either of these choices on the bottom back of the invitations to show people your commitment.

Shuttles.  If you are having your wedding at a venue like Blame Her Ranch, we strongly recommend shuttles for a host of reasons.  Being smart about transportation also cuts down on carbon emissions by doing a little “shuttling” to and from the event.

We hope you and your beloved will put in the extra work to make your special day a little greener.