Weddings are not typically the most eco-friendly events. As many of you know our beautiful Dutch Barn Venue is set in the stunning Cheshire Countryside, this means we are surrounded by lush fields and idyllic green views.
So as a venue, we are always encouraging our couples to adopt a few innovative ideas to make their wedding day that bit more environmentally friendly. We have compiled a list of 5 possible ways to make your wedding here at Alcumlow Wedding Barn a little more green!
1. Bio-Degradable Confetti
A great option for that perfect confetti shot is dried petals or flowers, such as lavender. Not only do they smell great, but they're light weight creating a slow descent after being thrown, meaning you have the time to capture some fantastic shots with your photographer.
If you can’t source enough petals, you can buy 100% biodegradable petal confetti from local companies such as Shropshire Petals.
Image Credit: Sarah Horton Photography
2. Outdoor Civil Ceremonies and Blessings
Another great option is utilising the venue grounds and opting for an outdoor Civil Ceremony or Blessing.
Not only does this save on lighting as you have all that natural sunlight, but it also makes the beautiful countryside the backdrop to your Ceremony. As we include aisle decor within our venue hire package, this enables you to save money on purchasing throwaway decor without compromising on having a beautifully decorated space for your Ceremony.
Image Credit: Sarah Horton Photography
3. E-Invites & Wedding Planning Websites
A great alternative option for inviting your nearest and dearest to your special day is emailing your invites. Not only does this save on paper but it is often a more direct way to reach your guests.
Consider emailing your guests the link to a wedding video or setting up a personalised wedding planning website that showcases your theme for the day. Wedding websites are very on trend and allow you to communicate with guests, whether that be recommending local accommodation or discussing food choices for the Wedding Breakfast. A great example would be www.gettingmarried.co.uk.
4. Transport from the Wedding Venue
Guests often prefer to drive their own vehicles to weddings. However this is not exactly good for your carbon footprint.
A great idea is to arrange for a bus (such as a red double decker) to take guests to local accommodation at the end of the night, especially if all your guests are staying at the same hotel. It’ll reduce the pollution from all those cars and can be a fun addition to the end of the evening! A great bus company example is Belle Vue Buses.
Image Credit: Stella Photography
Image Credit: Stella Photography
5. Eco-Friendly Favours
Favours are a great way to add a person touch to your tables, and there are so many eco-friendly options that you could use. From reusable jars to serve up homemade jam, a cute packet of seeds, or a handmade biscuit for your guests, you can even personalise these and add the guests names!
Image Credit: Sarah Horton Photography