It's difficult not to be environmentally conscious of the choices you make on a daily basis. Companies are boasting their green items in droves: from cars to clothing, everyone seems to be aboard the eco-friendly bandwagon these days. So how can you incorporate the theme of green into your wedding stationery? Here are some helpful ideas for brides to be who want to celebrate their wedding and the environment:
Reach for Recycled Paper. Many stationers are making recycled paper an option in their wedding stationery. You can choose between 100% recycled, partially recycled or entirely tree-free paper depending on your stationer. Not every area has a stationer who offers greener paper options. Consider using an online retailer for your recycled stationery, as they will also have a wider variety of choices to pick from.
Merge Your Information. If recycled paper is not an option for you, consider consolidating as much information as possible onto each peice of correspondence. For instance, include directions to your ceremony and reception venue on the back of your invitation. Consider sending a save-the-date card that includes a link to your wedding website where your guests can get further details about specifics. This will eliminate the need to send a separate card for things like menu options (provide choices for your guests on your webpage) and registry information. Also, consider sending only the essentials. Do you really need to send a folder to contain all the separate pieces of your invitation package? Will anyone other than you even notice?
Call in the Calligraphers. Did you know that the process used to print wedding invitations can be full of environmentally damaging chemicals? Consider greener printing options such as vegetable or soy based inks. An even better option is to pass up on the printing altogether and have your stationery hand written in calligraphy.
Pass on the Paper Altogether. There was a time when sending all your wedding correspondence electronically was frowned upon. Fortunately, those days are long gone. Chances are a majority of your guests will have access to a computer and the internet and can send and receive emails. This is a completely paperless way to handle all your wedding correspondence, from save the dates to invitations and thank you notes, as well as a great way to save some money in the process.
When it comes to choosing an environmentally friendly stationery set for your wedding, the key is to first consider what you actually need and how much of your correspondence can reasonably sent in other methods (electronically, word-of-mouth). Then find an option that is within your budget. Your guests will notice the green touch you've applied to your stationery and hopefully be inspired to go green in their everyday lives as well.
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