5 Tips to Design a Gorgeous + Sustainable Wedding

Calling all (earth!) lovers! A thoughtful wedding means a lot more than just handing out the perfect favors or writing your own vows. It means being purposeful in every step along the way—and that starts with design. Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to design a sustainable wedding day thanks to passionate vendors and brands! One such, Wilder Events Co. offered more inspiration behind this sustainable-meets-downright gorgeous day:

Tucked away in one of Los Angeles’ most intimate event venues, Elysian, this shoot was carefully crafted to incorporate elements of sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives. From biodegradable plant-dyed silk ribbon to locally-sourced fruits and vegetables, this shoot demonstrates that weddings can be romantic, glamorous, whimsical, and earth-conscious—all at the same time.

Agreed! Read on for 5 tips to plan an eco-friendly wedding along with some lovely images by Olivia Markle!

Tip #1: Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is

One of the easiest ways to build a sustainable design for your day is to start from the beginning: look for transparency from companies you’re shopping from. This is super important when it comes to the rings! The team turned to Brilliant Earth for the bride + groom’s rings. Brilliant Earth is known for beautiful, conflict-free fine jewelry, as well as giving back to the community!

Not only are those ribbons by Silk & Willow gorgeous, but they’re also handcrafted with plant-based dyed and ethically-sourced silks.

LOVE this peachy garden-style bouquet by Plain Jane Posy! Be sure to talk with your florist about the best way to source blooms. For example, Plain Jane Posy grows organic roses and greenery in her own yard and uses local flowers whenever possible!

Okay, we HAVE to take pause for that dress! It’s our very own Wyatt gown from the Lovers Society x GWS line, from Lovely Bride!

Tip #2: Rent to Reduce

While it sure is fun to get a new tailored suit, it’s not always sustainable for the guy who’s probably not going to wear it very often. Save money and materials by renting! The groom wore a killer blue suit (and shoes!) from Generation Tux and we think it suits him just fine.

Tip #3: Let Nature do the Talking

Not every “wow factor” has to be bought, designed, hung, and eventually tossed. What better to woo your guests than nature, itself? Find a venue that stuns in its own organic fashion (a greenhouse, perhaps?), book a wooded locale, or set up a cliff-side ceremony with a view! Decor can only go so far when there’s an epic sunset in sight.

How sweet are these two, by the way?!

Love the added pops of greenery + blooms with that hoop backdrop!

HEART EYES for the back of this dress!!

…and just when we couldn’t get enough of the Wyatt, she slipped into the Drew for the reception!

Meanwhile, Sandelin Designs gave this jacket a pretty little upgrade!

Tip #4: Go Vintage

There is nothing like an heirloom, thrifted item, or vintage find to breath new life to old things and add interest to the design! Think: rugs, glassware, tabletop decor, and even bridal accessories. Whatever you find can be reused later in your home!

Otis + Pearl provided these darling tabletop rentals for the day!

Tip # 5: Look for Creative Ways to Reuse Design Elements

La Cartita designed the most whimsical paper goods using Bloomin‘s handmade, seeded wildflower paper for invitations, tables cards, and menus. This beautiful seeded paper not only works for romantic stationery, but can then be planted as it is! Suddenly, a menu is not just a menu, but a garden of godetias, forget-me-nots, daisies, and poppies. We love the idea of menus doubling up as guest favors—a sustainable gift that keeps on growing!

We’re just loving everything about this day! And Robbie Hernandez captured more sweet moments from these two:

Thanks to the entire team for sharing your creativity and sustainable wedding day tips!

photography: Olivia Markle // venue name: Elysian, Los Angeles, California, USA // event design: Wilder Events Co. // planning: Wilder Events Co. // florals: Plain Jane Posy // wedding dress: Lovers Society X GWS // wedding dress boutique: Lovely Bride // bride's ring: Brilliant Earth // hair stylist: Danilee Aristil // makeup artist: Danilee Aristil // groom attire: Generation Tux // groom's shoes: Generation Tux // groom's ring: Brilliant Earth // videography: Robbie Hernandez // calligraphy: La Cartita // handmade details: Silk & Willow // tabletop rentals: Otis + Pearl // models: Lea Guillory and Clay Bohle // bride jacket: Sandelin Designs