While weddings are a time of joy and celebration, they aren’t exactly the most earth-friendly event. In fact, I recently learned that medium-sized weddings of 100-120 guests that last 6 hours produce a whopping 400-600 pounds of waste 😱
A notable contributor to this waste? Traditional floral arrangements. Often imported and grown with heavy pesticide use, they not only have a large carbon footprint but they’re usually thrown out after the event. (Plus, they’re not exactly cheap — get ready to pay $2,000+ for fresh flowers.)
Luckily, there’s no need to sacrifice beauty to go green. Here are 10 of my favorite eco wedding flower alternatives that are just as stunning and long-lasting.
10 Eco Wedding Flower Ideas
1. Paper flowers
Having been to countless weddings, I've noticed a beautiful trend — more and more couples are choosing paper flowers when they go the eco-friendly route.
And it makes perfect sense! Paper flowers offer so many options. From delicate origami creations to bold, colorful paper arrangements, they can be tailored to any wedding theme or color palette. Plus, they last much longer than real flowers, making them a beautiful keepsake.
When choosing paper flowers, consider using recycled or upcycled paper to further minimize environmental impact. Look for artisanal crafters who specialize in these flowers, or explore DIY options with online tutorials. The texture and weight of the paper can vary, so experiment with different types like crepe paper for a more delicate look or cardstock for sturdier blooms.
2. Felt flowers
Another trend I've seen at weddings that really sticks with me? Felt flowers! They bring this whimsical, soft touch to the décor, and those blooms are seriously tough — perfect for any weather, any season. The textures and all the different varieties create these stunning bouquets and centerpieces that just stand out.
The best part? You can find felt made from recycled plastic bottles these days. Eco-friendly and gorgeous – win-win! There are tons of pre-made options from crafters on Etsy, but if you're feeling creative, there are tutorials for every skill level.
Want to add a fancy touch? Some folks even incorporate beadwork or embroidery for an extra dose of elegance.
3. Potted plants
Sustainability meets symbolism? Yes, please! More and more couples are incorporating potted plants into their wedding décor. These beauties can decorate aisles, tables, and anywhere else that needs a touch of life, and the best part is you can plant them in your garden after the wedding. They'll grow alongside your marriage, a constant reminder of your special day.
Local nurseries are your friends here – they can advise you on the best plants for your area and the season.
4. Silk flowers
Let's talk about silk flowers. They're beautiful, elegant, and come in a wide range of styles and colors to match any theme — all without the waste of fresh flowers. Plus, they can mimic almost any type of flower, so you can totally get the look you're going for.
Here's a cool tip I've learned: there are plenty of places that rent silk flowers! This can save you money and reduce waste even further. If you go this route, do your research to find companies with high-quality, realistic-looking blooms and sustainable practices. Renting is a double win — less waste and potentially less cost!
5. Dried flowers
For a touch of rustic charm, dried flowers are a popular choice at weddings I've been to. They offer this earthy, organic feel, and because they last so long, you can prepare them well in advance, reducing last-minute stress (here at Daisy Chat, we’re all about that).
There are suppliers out there who source their dried flowers sustainably, or you could even try drying your own! This is a great way to personalize your wedding and add a touch of DIY magic.
6. LEGO flowers
Talk about unique centerpieces! I've spotted LEGO flowers at a few weddings, and let me tell you, they're a hit with guests of all ages. They offer a quirky and playful touch, perfect for couples who love a bit of whimsy and nostalgia.
The best part? You can either buy pre-made LEGO flower sets or design your own for a truly personal touch. Imagine incorporating mini figures of the couple or building flowers that reflect your favorite hobbies — the possibilities are endless!
7. Wooden flowers
Another trend I'm seeing more of is wooden flowers. They add a rustic yet elegant touch to the décor, and the best part is they're super long-lasting.
These beauties can be carved or laser-cut into beautiful shapes and painted to match your color scheme. They make a unique addition to your wedding centerpieces or bouquets.
Here's a tip for the eco-conscious couple: look for wooden flowers made from sustainable wood sources. There are various online retailers specializing in eco-friendly wedding decor that offer these; you’ve probably heard of Sola wood flowers, for example.
8. Crocheted flowers
Let's talk about adding a personal touch! Crocheted flowers are a sweet way to incorporate handmade elements into your wedding décor. I've seen them at several weddings, and they always add a touch of vintage charm and personality — especially if you're a knitter or crocheter!
These can be crafted from sustainable, organic yarns or even upcycled materials, making them a great eco-friendly choice. Plus, they double as keepsakes — guests can cherish these little crocheted blooms long after the wedding.
You can tackle this DIY project yourself, adding a deeply personal touch to your decor, or commission them from skilled artisans on Etsy. The variety of yarns and colors available makes it easy to match them to your wedding theme.
9. Origami flower arrangements
Origami flowers are another way to add a unique touch to your wedding décor. These beautiful folded creations can be made from recycled or sustainably sourced paper, making them a great eco-friendly option.
But origami is more than just pretty – in many cultures, the art of origami is seen as a representation of transformation and beauty, making it a fitting metaphor for a wedding.
I've seen origami flower arrangements at weddings that range from simple designs to elaborate creations. The level of intricacy can depend on your skill level or that of the artist you commission. They're also a perfect idea for a fun and meaningful pre-wedding craft session with friends and family.
10. Herb bouquets
Here's a wedding favor that's both beautiful and functional: herb bouquets! They're a fantastic choice I've seen at more and more eco-conscious weddings.
Herbs like lavender, rosemary, mint, and sage not only have delightful scents but also symbolize various positive attributes such as love, loyalty, and wisdom. These can be grown in your garden or sourced from local farmers, ensuring a fresh and eco-friendly option.
Plus, they're a gift that keeps on giving! After the wedding, these herbs can be used in cooking or dried for keepsakes, serving as a lasting reminder of your special day.
6 Tips for Maximizing the Charm of Eco Wedding Flower Alternatives
Having seen countless weddings go green with their flower choices, I can tell you — eco wedding flower alternatives are more than just great for the planet, they're bursting with creative potential!
Here are some tips I've picked up from the most inspiring weddings to help you make these alternatives truly shine:
Match your vibe. Consider the style and palette of your wedding when selecting your flower alternatives. Rustic weddings pair beautifully with wooden or dried flowers, while more modern settings may benefit from the clean lines of origami or LEGO flowers.
Go beyond bouquets. Don't stop at the altar! I've seen stunning centerpieces and ceremony backdrops made with crocheted flowers or hanging silk arrangements. Line the aisle with potted plants for a touch of life, or use felt blooms to create whimsical table runners. The possibilities are endless!
Make it part of your celebration. Consider organizing a fun pre-wedding event where friends and family can help create paper, origami, or crocheted flowers. This not only makes the preparations more personal but also builds excitement for the big day.
Think about balance and contrast. Sustainable alternatives often have unique textures and styles. Think about balance! Bold paper flowers might be paired with soft table linens or warm lighting. Wooden flowers can be accented with rustic elements like branches, while silk flowers might call for elegant ribbons or tablecloths.
Make them keepsakes. Turn these creations into lasting memories! I've seen guests cherish little crocheted blooms or origami creations long after the wedding. Let your sustainable flowers become keepsakes that whisper your special day.
Mix and match. Don't be afraid to combine sustainable alternatives with a few fresh, locally sourced blooms. This can add a touch of freshness and fragrance while still minimizing your environmental impact. Learn more about how to make your wedding flowers more eco-friendly.
Crafting Your Eco-Friendly Dream Wedding
Choosing sustainable alternatives isn't about sacrificing beauty — it's about adding a unique and personal touch to your celebration. These options allow you to express your style, commitment, and love for the planet in countless ways.
Psst: Another way to make your big day eco-friendly (and stress-free)? Daisy Chat. I’m one of the co-founders of this wedding guest management app that automates responses to your guests’ questions, saving you significant amounts of time. You can even reduce paper waste by using Daisy Chat to send out reminders, RSVP requests, and more. Check out Daisy Chat today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dried flowers sustainable?
Yes! Dried flowers last much longer than fresh blooms, minimizing the amount of plant material that ends up in landfills. They also don't require refrigeration or long-distance transportation, which reduces their environmental impact.
Where can I find sustainable wedding florists?
Are there any downsides to using eco wedding flower alternatives?
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