Tying the Knot in an Ethical Way:

There can be huge expenditure involved in getting married.  If a large amount of money is going to be spent anyway, why not show some ethical awareness in the spending? There are enormous environmental and social impacts associated with such celebrations so why not consider making your day ‘green’?

Adopting a considerate and thoughtful approach to planning will create awareness in others and be acknowledged as a reflection of your personal values.  An ethical wedding can still be an extremely stylish affair.

Your Engagement: Search in antique shops for an unique engagement ring or seek out gold that can be recycled or consider fair trade silver for the wedding rings.  If choosing a new ring do ensure that your diamonds are from a conflict free source.

Invitations: Nothing could be more personal than making your own invitations.  Use recycled paper for all the wedding stationery.

Hen and Stag Parties: Choose local entertainment rather than travel long distances.

Bridal Wear and Flowers: The something borrowed could be your wedding dress, alternatively search on line for dresses, usually worn only once and often representing a huge financial saving.  For the attendants ensure that the outfits can be used afterwards for other occasions.  Whether you buy, make, re-model or hire, use natural organic and fair trade fabrics wherever possible.  Buy locally grown flowers avoiding out of season blooms that travel thousands of air miles.

Transport: Try to arrange the wedding and reception within easy walking distance of one another and have a traditional wedding procession.  For longer distances consider hiring a bus or coach to transport guests, or arrange for them to share rides.  Avoid gas-guzzling limos instead, ride horse-back, travel in a horse drawn carriage or even pedal a tandem.

The Wedding Venue: Locate a venue that is registered for civil ceremonies where both the wedding and reception can take place under one roof.  Throw biodegradable confetti, fresh flower petals or blow bubbles that will not harm the environment.  Remember that dancing fountains and acres of manicured lawns have an environmental impact.