Getting the most out of your wedding flowers involves not only creating beautiful arrangements but also finding sustainable ways to use and repurpose them. Here are some tips for maximizing the impact of your wedding flowers and embracing eco-friendly practices.
Discuss Sustainability with Florist
First and foremost, work with your florist to explore sustainable and eco-friendly options. Discuss ways to reduce floral waste and reuse or donate arrangements after the event. This can also mean you opt for flowers that are in season and sourced locally. Seasonal flowers are more likely to be abundant, reducing the environmental impact of transportation. Another idea is to use potted plants or small succulents as both décor and eco-friendly wedding favors. Guests can take them home and continue to enjoy the living reminder of your special day.
Repurpose Ceremony Flowers, Bouquet Flowers and Floral Décor
If possible, repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception. Move aisle decorations, arch arrangements, or altar pieces to adorn the reception area. Pieces can be adapted into trellises or other outdoor decorative features.
After the wedding, consider repurposing bouquet flowers into smaller arrangements for your home. Use them to decorate your living space and extend the life of the flowers. You can also invite guests to take home centerpieces or bouquets. Display a sign encouraging them to enjoy the blooms and reduce waste.
Donate Flowers
A beautiful way to share the love of your wedding day is to consider donating your wedding flowers to local hospitals, nursing homes, or charitable organizations. Brightening someone else’s day with your floral arrangements can be a wonderful gesture. Another idea is to research if there are local flower community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. Donate or contribute your wedding flowers to support local sustainable flower farming.
Biodegradable Petals or Confetti
If you’re planning to have a confetti toss, opt for biodegradable flower petals. They are an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic options.
DIY Potpourri and Flower Keepsakes
For the DIY bride, you can easily dry petals from your wedding flowers and create homemade potpourri. Combine with other aromatic elements (dried oranges, cinnamon, etc.) for a personalized fragrance. Or, you can simply preserve your wedding bouquet by drying the flowers. Create dried flower arrangements, wreaths, or shadow boxes as lasting keepsakes.
Compost or Mulch
Lastly, if flowers have reached the end of their lifespan, compost them. Decomposing flowers contribute nutrients to the soil, making them an excellent addition to a compost pile. The rich soil will contribute to the growth of new flowers – and who knows, maybe they’ll end up in another bride’s stunning bouquet!
By incorporating these sustainable practices, you not only enhance the beauty of your wedding flowers but also contribute to a more eco-friendly celebration. It’s a wonderful way to extend the life of your floral arrangements and minimize environmental impact. (Ps. If you need some help making your floral decisions, I’ve got a guide to Spring 2024 Flower Trends right here!)
xoxo,
Mindy
Images by Amy & Stuart Photography
