4 Ways to Plan a More Sustainable Wedding

4 Ways to Plan a More Sustainable Wedding

Here in the Piedmont, we’re surrounded by talented farmers and florists who make it possible to celebrate your wedding beautifully and sustainably. Here are four simple ways to bring that vision to life:

1. Skip the foam
Floral foam may seem convenient, but it’s made of microplastics that never break down. Ask your florist to use chicken wire, reusable vases, or water tubes instead. These methods keep your arrangements sturdy and stunning without leaving behind harmful waste.

2. Choose local, in-season flowers
North Carolina’s growing season is generous—think tulips and ranunculus in the spring, sunflowers and zinnias in the summer, and dahlias and celosia in the fall. By choosing what’s in bloom nearby, you’ll cut down on shipping emissions and highlight the natural beauty of the Piedmont landscape.

3. Reuse your vessels
From mason jars to heirloom vases, there are plenty of creative ways to display your flowers without relying on single-use containers. Ask your florist about rentals or provide your own collection for a more personal touch.

4. Give your flowers a second life
Don’t let your blooms end with the last dance. Donate arrangements to a local hospital or nursing home, send guests home with small bundles, or compost what’s left to nourish the soil. Your flowers can keep giving joy long after the party’s over.

By following these four steps, you can plan a wedding that honors your love story and the land we call home.