From Bling to Green Tip #3: Cut the Fluff

If a Bentley isn’t important to you then stick a ribbon on a tandem or your friend’s Fiesta. On the other hand, if arriving in style is your thing – then invest the money on the perfect horse-drawn carriage and leave some other nice-to-have things off the list.

Think long about your invitation list too. If your preferred reception venue charges lots per head for food, then perhaps those long-distant second cousins are fine with just an evening invite...

From Bling to Green Tip #2: It's cool to recycle

The old adage of something old, new, borrowed & blue has never been more appropriate.

As well as choosing some shiny new things if that's your style (conflict-free diamond anyone?), there are some amazing eco-friendly, recycling options to enjoy.

One inspirational example is the stunning dresses available from Oxfam Bridal, set up by the inspirational Barbara Walmsley. They now have a dozen or so branches around the UK & Ireland with hundreds of beautiful dresses, most donated by designers from end-of-line or from ex-catwalk designs.

From Bling to Green Tip #1: Go D.I.Y.

Tip #1 - Do it Yourself

If you have a friend or relative who is a useful flower-arranger, photographer or musician – then why not ask them to play a part in your big day? Or alternatively, pick up some DIY tools yourself.

Be aware this isn’t for the faint hearted – you’ll need to be very clear about what you want & be prepared to go elsewhere if they or indeed you can’t deliver. However, it's a great way to avoid spending excessive amounts of money & resouces on professional services.

For example rather than thousands of pounts towards personalised stationery, you can now buy some beautiful outers such as the handmade, Fair Trade cards from http://www.fairgift.co.uk/ and then print the personalised inners at home.

Ethical Wedding Tips - From BLING to GREEN

After years of ever-increasing BLING, many marrying couples now prefer GREEN. Or in other words to have a wedding that better reflects their interests and values. Given current economic woes, this is also a great way to be ‘lean and green’.

With that in mind, this blog will feature a series of tips on how to have a green & ethical wedding this year.