Mindful Eco-Chic Wedding Ideas by Emily Anderson

To have a mindful wedding you don't need to make major sacrifices.  A slight change in your approach can make a world of difference.  First, think about why you want certain things at your wedding.  Is it because it's what you think should happen?  Or is it because you are listening to all of the messages being directed at you by the wedding industry.  It is important to realize that the wedding industry has gotten significantly bigger in the last 20 years.  Consumers spend the most money in the shortest amount of time from engagement to marriage, making large purchases such as homes, and cars.   

The idea of simplifying your wedding is antithetical to what all of the bridal magazines are telling you to do.  But this is the first step toward creating an eco-chic wedding.

What's good for us is often good for the environment.  And so, when we decide to simplify our wedding plans, what happens?  Less to do, less stress, it becomes easier, we become happier, and our impact on the environment is reduced.  One example is whether or not to send a save the date card.  I say skip the save-the-date and send an email instead. In this digital age, you can find many talented graphic designers who will literally create a "custom identity" for you and your wedding. Sunali of Unruly Things is one of my favorites; she does beautiful work and can design everything for you from your evite, to your printed invitations.

                                     

- Emily Anderson, Eco-Chic Weddings