Micro-weddings Are Here to Stay

Certified Green Wedding Professional & Owner of Eco & Ivory Event Design
Angela Baguet Shares Trending Details on Sustainable Weddings

by Andrea Stehle

September 8, 2022

What are some of the current trends you're seeing in sustainably inspired weddings for 2022-23? 
The biggest trend I see among more eco-conscious couples is the desire to have a smaller, more intimate wedding. Even though Covid-19 is having less of an impact on weddings and events now, micro-weddings are here to stay, as couples are realizing that they don’t want or need a big wedding. My hope is that more and more wedding venues will catch on to this, and maintain or embrace micro-wedding packages.

What is your first approach with a couple who hires you to coordinate details of their special day?
The first step is figuring out what the couple’s top priorities are for their wedding, as well as what areas they would put at the bottom of the list. This information can be used to figure out how “green” the couple would like to go and to establish a budget. Creating a budget for an eco-friendly wedding can differ in some areas compared to a traditional wedding, so it’s good to discuss goals and expectations for the wedding and establish a budget upfront.

What are the popular color palettes you're seeing currently?
Many couples who are into sustainability are attracted to natural, earthy colors like green and terracotta, but I see a lot of florists going bolder and brighter with their designs, incorporating a lot of different colors and unique flowers into their arrangements. Couples seem to be straying from colors like rose gold or white with greenery, which have been popular choices over the past several years, and going with more eccentric color palettes that incorporate colors like periwinkle, fuchsia, and emerald.

What are some money-saving ways a couple can still achieve their wedding look, but do something unique?
Using organic, seasonal, and/or locally grown fruit and vegetables instead of florals or other décor can cut down on cost, and as long as they’re used in a way that allows them to be consumed later, they can be more sustainable. Also, renting unique plants can add interest to the décor and can also be more cost effective than purchasing florals. Mixing and matching thrifted or antique items, such as dinnerware or candle holders, can help cut costs and create a unique look. This is much easier to pull off with a small wedding, as thrifting takes time and mixing and matching can involve some design skills, but it can be more affordable than renting.

What is the most affordable choice for a couple who wants to host an eco-friendly ceremony and reception? 
The most affordable options would perhaps be to have a micro-wedding at home or to elope. The reason for this is that cutting down the guest list cuts down on resources and waste. However, that is not always the most fun or desirable option. Therefore, hosting your wedding ceremony and reception at a local park, as long as it doesn’t require bringing in too many resources, could be a great alternative. Parks tend to be more affordable to rent out, and the natural scenery can act as a beautiful backdrop and cut down the need for décor. Just make sure there is an inclement weather option!

What are the specific trends when it comes to eco-bridal fashion?
Many eco-conscious couples look toward pre-used items for their wedding attire. While there are many local places where suits can be rented, dress rental can be harder to come by locally. However, purchasing a consigned dress is a great eco-friendly option. Wedding dress consignment shops, such as Bridal Maven in Dormont, tend to take dresses that were originally purchased within a specific time frame, so even though the dresses aren’t reflective of the next season, they are still trendy. For couples who want to purchase something new but still be eco-friendly and perhaps a little more on-trend, it’s best to shop online for attire made from sustainable materials, such as linen, hemp, or recycled or 100% organic cotton.

What is your favorite part of the eco-bridal industry / planning a couple's big day or event?
My favorite part of the eco wedding industry is getting to work with like-minded couples and vendors. Wedding vendors work so many weddings and can often appear to be on a hamster wheel. However, planning weddings with the greater good in mind brings a larger sense of meaning and contribution and allows me to connect with couples and vendors on a different level. Planning an eco-conscious couple’s big day is not just about the aesthetics and the minute details that won’t matter later; it’s more focused on their love and how their wedding can transcend that. 

For more ideas and inspiration or to inquire, follow @ecoandivory on Instagram.

Andrea Stehle is a regular contributor for The Green Voice.