Planning

So you want to have your wedding far away at a gorgeous and romantic location? We can't really blame you. The culture, food, and surroundings of a destination wedding are absolutely breathtaking. While the travel associated with a destination isn't always eco-friendly, there are definitely ways you can still have your dream wedding and keep the earth in mind.

Amidst your (green) wedding planning, have you found yourself extra stressed, lacking time, and in need of more time for R&R? You're not alone. So on first pass, I realize that you might think that the last thing you need is to start a wine tasting group. But wine tasting groups offer a great, casual environment to catch up with girlfriends or other couples old and new while peppering the evening with a bit of education.

Question:

I would like to learn more about the new green wedding certification class. How does it work and why do you think wedding planners should take it?

Answer:

With so many couples getting engaged over the holidays, wedding vendors are gearing up to sell sell sell. Before you dive into full wedding planning mode, have a plan! The first thing you should do is think and dream about what you want your wedding day to look like.

Just spoke to my Maid of Honor, Isabel. She and the best man are the only parts of a formal wedding party we're having.She is actually a professional event planner in Atlanta, GA, where I lived for 8 years. That will either come in handy or we will kill one another. She is even more opinionated than me, if you can beleive that! But that's also the greatest thing about her: she will definitely let you know what she is thinking. She has great style and an eye for detail.

I can't concentrate when I am hungry, so most of the time I am prepping and tasting food in my kitchen at the restaurant so I hardly sit down for a good meal. I have had to work years at eating healthier.

Image: Kuperberg Weddings

From Shawn in San Diego:

With a little bit of effort and research the wedding of your dreams is possible on a budget. The key is to not give up and continue to look if you do not find something that fits within your pocket book. Be creative, check out the bridal magazines, see what they are doing and visit your local craft store to find ways to hand make the details. Most importantly, add eco-friendly touches where you can... being eco-friendly will never go out of bridal style!

Kate's Response: 

Shawn is absolutely right!  in fact, you can save up to 40% off the cost of your wedding by making simple green choices.  I recently wrote a short piece "Save $11,000+ by Going Green on Your Wedding Day."

I am also testing something new a just recorded a Yodio introducing myself and offering a few easy tips to save money and the environment.  Take a look!

From Ashley in Illinois: