How to Make Your Wedding Eco-Friendly
In recent years, more couples have been embracing sustainable weddings—and not just as a trend, but as a reflection of their values. From zero-waste receptions to eco-conscious fashion, today’s weddings are shifting toward greener choices that celebrate love without harming the planet.
Planning a green wedding in Wellington offers incredible opportunities. This beautiful, coastal city is full of eco-friendly vendors, stunning outdoor venues, and communities that support sustainability. Whether you’re just starting out or fully committed to a zero-waste wedding, here’s how you can plan a meaningful, low-impact celebration in Aotearoa’s capital.
1. Choose an Eco-Conscious Venue
One of the biggest sustainability decisions you’ll make is choosing your venue. Look for Wellington venues that prioritize:
- Recycling and composting facilities
- Renewable energy sources
- Sustainable catering options
- Outdoor ceremony spaces (to reduce energy use)
Top eco-friendly venue ideas:
- Zealandia Ecosanctuary: A breathtaking natural space with a conservation mission.
- Wellington Botanic Garden: Offers natural backdrops with minimal need for extra décor.
- Eco-conscious Airbnb homes or farms: Great for micro-weddings or outdoor receptions.
Hosting both the ceremony and reception at one venue also reduces travel-related emissions.
2. Go Local with Vendors and Flowers
Working with local Wellington vendors minimizes transportation impact and supports small businesses. Whether it’s your florist, baker, or dressmaker—choose those who source sustainably and work within your region.
Eco tips:
- Request in-season flowers from local growers. Dried or potted plants are even better.
- Ask caterers about zero-waste or vegetarian menus, and locally sourced ingredients.
- Skip imported décor and hire from local rental companies instead.
3. Rethink Paper Goods
Invitations, menus, programs—they add up. Consider swapping traditional paper for eco-friendly stationery or going digital.
Sustainable alternatives:
- Use recycled paper, seeded paper, or natural dyes for printed materials.
- Create a wedding website for RSVPs, schedules, and guest info.
- Use chalkboards or wooden signage instead of disposable paper.
Bonus Tip: Your photographer or stationer can also create a beautiful digital album or slideshow as a modern keepsake—saving paper and energy.
4. Choose a Sustainable Wedding Dress (or Suit)
Bridal fashion often has a high carbon footprint, especially when materials are synthetic or imported. Luckily, Wellington wedding dresses can be both stylish and sustainable.
Green options:
- Buy a pre-loved dress from a local bridal resale boutique
- Rent a gown or suit
- Choose a designer who uses organic or ethically sourced fabrics
- Reuse a family heirloom and give it a modern twist
The same goes for suits and bridal party attire—support NZ-based designers who care about responsible production.
5. Focus on Low-Waste Catering
Food waste is one of the biggest issues at weddings. Thankfully, many Wellington caterers now offer low-waste and sustainable options.
Ask your caterer about:
- Locally sourced menus and seasonal produce
- Vegetarian or vegan options to reduce carbon impact
- Compostable or reusable dishware
- Portion control to reduce leftovers
Partner with organizations like Kaibosh Food Rescue to donate extra food if possible.
6. Rethink Wedding Favours and Gifts
Skip plastic-wrapped mementos that end up in the bin. Instead, focus on favors that are practical, edible, or plantable.
Eco-friendly favor ideas:
- Mini succulents or native plant seedlings
- Handmade soaps in compostable packaging
- Locally made honey, tea, or olive oil
- A donation to a charity on your guests’ behalf
You can also create a zero-gift registry that encourages guests to contribute to a honeymoon fund, home renovation, or experience instead of physical gifts.
7. Decor with Purpose
Avoid one-time-use plastic or glittery décor. Nature and simplicity often do the trick—and Wellington has no shortage of breathtaking backdrops.
Sustainable decoration ideas:
- Dried floral arrangements or foraged greenery
- Candles in recycled jars or upcycled holders
- Rent tableware, backdrops, and props from local event hire companies
- Use what your venue offers (trees, natural light, views) as your aesthetic focus
8. Choose an Eco-Minded Photographer
While wedding photography isn’t typically the most polluting part of the day, it can still be made more sustainable.
As a wedding photographer in Wellington with a focus on modern, environmentally conscious services, I encourage couples to ask about:
- Digital albums instead of print (with options for USB or online gallery access)
- Eco-friendly printing when albums are requested
- Paperless contracts and planning tools
- Local shooting locations to reduce travel impact
Bonus: Digital delivery also means you can share your day with overseas loved ones without shipping or extra carbon emissions.
9. Encourage Low-Impact Travel
Wellington is a compact city—making it ideal for guests to travel light.
Tips for reducing travel emissions:
- Choose accommodation close to the venue
- Offer group transport via electric bus or shared vans
- Suggest public transport, cycling, or walking for local guests
- Offset your wedding’s travel footprint with a trusted organization like Ekos or Trees That Count
10. Be Mindful of What Happens After
The wedding might end in one day, but its environmental footprint can linger.
Post-wedding sustainability:
- Compost or donate floral arrangements
- Reuse or donate your dress and décor
- Send thank-you notes digitally or use recycled stationery
- Share your digital wedding album instead of printing for every guest
Final Thoughts: A Wedding That Reflects You—and the Earth
Planning an eco-friendly wedding in Wellington isn’t about perfection—it’s about intentional choices that align with your values. With a bit of creativity and a team of like-minded vendors, you can host a celebration that’s both stunning and sustainable.
Remember: it’s not about what you give up, but about what you create—a thoughtful, love-filled experience that cares for the planet, your guests, and your future together.
