Sustainable Wedding Ideas to make your Wedding more Eco-friendly in Omaha
- Maritza
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
Planning a wedding is no small feat, and when it comes to making that day truly special, many couples strive for a unique celebration that reflects their values. If you’re one of those engaged couples in Omaha who care about the environment, you may be wondering how to throw a wedding without leaving a massive carbon footprint. There are plenty of ways to reduce waste and keep your big day green.
As a wedding venue owners, we've witnessed a lot of wedding (waste) over the years! In this blog post we’ll explore various eco-friendly acts you can incorporate into your wedding.
Choose a Sustainable Venue
The foundation of an eco-friendly wedding begins with the venue. Look for venues that prioritize sustainability, such as those that use eco-friendly building materials or have sustainability certifications. For example, we have chosen to utilize reclaimed material in a lot of our projects around the property.
By choosing a venue that practices good environmental stewardship, you’ll also likely reduce your carbon footprint. Our venue prioritizes returning the land back over to nature. We've reintroduced trees, grasses, and flowers to several acres surrounding the venue. On any day you can witness all the wildlife that has made the venue their home.
Go for Local and Seasonal Flowers
Flowers are a significant part of most weddings, but importing blooms from far away contributes to unnecessary carbon emissions. Instead, choose local florists who source their flowers from nearby farms. We are fortunate enough to have not one, but two flower farms close to our venue. Seasonal flowers not only reduce environmental impact, but they also often look fresher and more vibrant.
Feeling extra ambitious? You could grow your own flowers. We've had a few of our brides grow the flowers that were used for their wedding. If going this route be prepared to have a back up plan in case Mother Nature throws you a curve ball halfway through. One of our brides had a hail storm destroy half of what she was growing, but thankfully had a family friend that covered what was lost in the storm.
Also consider potted plants instead of cut flowers—they can serve as decorations and then be enjoyed in homes after the event. This way, you’re not only reducing waste but also contributing to long-term sustainability.
Don't know what to do with all those flowers after your wedding is over? We have several ideas to keep your wedding flowers out of trash and give them a second life.
Digital Invitations and RSVP
In a world that’s becoming increasingly digital, why not go paperless for your wedding invitations? Numerous websites offer beautifully designed digital invitations that can be customized to your liking. Not only does this dramatically reduce paper waste, but it also saves time and money!
Additionally, an online RSVP system is perfect for tracking your guest count, further minimizing the need for physical materials. This tech-savvy approach keeps you organized while being kind to the planet.
Reconsider Wedding Favors
Traditional wedding favors often end up discarded, contributing to waste. Instead of physical tokens, consider donating to a charity in your guests’ names. This thoughtful act not only honors your loved ones but also contributes to a cause that you care about.
You might also think about unique, experiential alternatives, such as offering a fun activity or a group experience for guests that they can enjoy together during the reception. Some examples of this is having a cariacture artist for guests to have their portraits done or a floral bar to create and take home mini bouquets.
Rentals Over Purchases
Consider renting decorations, tableware, chairs, and even attire instead of purchasing new items. This not only cuts down on waste, but also reduces costs. Many rental companies in Omaha offer beautiful, stylish options that can transform any space.
By renting, you’re able to have a stunning visual aesthetic without the commitment of owning all those items afterward. After the festivities, everything can be returned instead of tossed aside or thrown away.
Use Eco-Friendly Decor
When it comes to decor, think creatively about how you can use items that are either reusable or compostable. Avoid single-use plastics and opt for biodegradable or natural materials instead. For example, use fabric table runners that can be washed and reused, rather than disposable options.
Lighting can set the mood at your wedding, so consider using string lights, lanterns, or candles that run on renewable energy sources. Not only will these options help lessen your environmental impact, but they’ll also create a charming atmosphere for your celebration.
Conclusion
Planning an eco-friendly wedding is not just a trend; it’s a meaningful way to celebrate love while being conscious of the environment. From choosing sustainable venues to rethinking traditional aspects like favors, there are countless ways to ensure your big day aligns with your green values.
By implementing just a few of these eco-friendly acts, you can reduce waste and create a beautiful, memorable experience for your guests. Take these ideas to heart, think creatively, and enjoy your beautiful day while making a positive impact on the planet. Happy planning!
At Willow Creek, we’re all about celebrating love, supporting small businesses, and making wedding dreams come true. Choosing a locally owned venue means getting a personal touch, top-notch service, and a team that truly cares about your big day. Plus, it helps strengthen our local economy—win-win! If you're still on the hunt for the perfect venue, check out this wedding venue map to discover more amazing locally owned spots. Let’s keep the magic of local weddings alive, one “I do” at a time!