Curated Resources for Planning
Green Weddings & Events
10 Easy Ways to Incorporate Eco-Friendly Practices into Your Wedding Planning
Weddings are one of life’s most special occasions, but they can also be a big source of waste. From floral arrangements to single-use decor, the environmental impact can really add up. But don’t worry, you don’t have to sacrifice style for sustainability. With these 10 simple tips, you can plan a wedding that’s just as good for the planet as it is for your big day!
15 Questions to Ask Yourself when Planning an Eco-Friendly Wedding
Planning an eco-friendly wedding? Ask yourself these 15 key questions to create a celebration that’s beautiful, meaningful, and sustainable. From guest lists to décor, Chicago’s Sustainable Events Collective shares tips to help you plan a wedding that reflects your values and leaves a lighter footprint.
4 Alternatives to Soggy Paper Straws
The next big trend in plastic alternatives has been paper straws, which have definitely had their moment in cocktails and iced lattes over the past few years. Although, paper straws are a more sustainable option than single-use plastic and they are notorious for turning into mush after just a few minutes of being in a beverage.
Here’s Why Chicago Is the Best Place to Host a Queer Wedding
Looking for a city that celebrates your love in all its fullness?
Chicago is more than just a backdrop—it’s a bold, affirming, and joy-filled place to have a queer wedding. With deep LGBTQ+ roots, inclusive vendors, and vibrant venues across the city, it’s the perfect place to say “I do” on your own terms. At the Green Wedding Alliance, we believe your celebration should be as authentic, intentional, and unapologetically you as the love you’re honoring.
10 Simple Swaps for a Greener Wedding Day
Planning a wedding that’s both beautiful and eco-friendly is easier than you might think. With thoughtful choices like digital invitations, seasonal menus, and sustainable décor, you can minimize waste and celebrate your love in harmony with the planet. Opt for venues that prioritize sustainability and attire made from recycled or vintage materials to reduce your environmental impact. Small changes, like biodegradable confetti and green wedding favors, can make a big difference without compromising on style. By choosing eco-conscious vendors and donating leftover food, your wedding can inspire others while creating lasting memories for everyone involved.
Green Wedding Planning 101: A Guide to Saying "I Do" Sustainably
Dreaming of a wedding that’s as beautiful for the planet as it is for your love story? From choosing an eco-friendly venue to minimizing waste and selecting sustainable decor, there are countless ways to reduce your wedding’s environmental impact. In this guide by the Green Wedding Alliance, we break down simple yet impactful steps to help you plan a wedding that aligns with your values—without sacrificing style or elegance. Ready to say “I do” to sustainability? Read on for our top tips on planning a green wedding that’s both meaningful and mindful!
Eco-Friendly Wedding Venues in Chicago
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, and for many couples, it’s an opportunity to celebrate not just their love but also their values. If sustainability and environmental responsibility are important to you, finding an eco-friendly wedding venue can make your special day even more meaningful. Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods offer plenty of venues that embrace green practices. The Green Wedding Alliance features vendors dedicated to sustainability, and we’re excited to share some of our top eco-friendly venue partners in Chicago, Illinois who are just as committed to going green as you are.
A Guide to Eco-Friendly Candles
This guide by the Green Wedding Alliance explores eco-friendly candle options, comparing faux candles, beeswax, soy, and paraffin. Faux candles offer a safe, reusable alternative, while beeswax candles are natural, clean-burning, and air-purifying. Soy candles are affordable and renewable, though slightly more costly than paraffin. In contrast, paraffin candles are petroleum-based and harmful to both health and the environment. The post also shares tips for repurposing leftover wax, helping you make the most of your candles and reduce waste. Choose sustainable options to enjoy ambiance while protecting the planet.
