Miasma
Because life has no borders!

Since its conception, as a view point, Global Warming has evolved from the bastard child no one
wanted to acknowledge to a center-stage superstar on the forefront of the worlds’ debate stage.
The issue is current, and thanks to celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, it is has also become
trendy to care about the environment so it’s no surprise that the subject has also become
something to consider on that most special of days, your wedding day.
As more and more couples opt to join the Green Team an industry has sprang up as a branch of
the wedding machine that covets a multi-billion dollar industry. Yet most of us think of
environmental friendly and we think of hippiesque hemp dresses and pot smoking nudists.
Today, going green on your wedding day is simply so much more. Having an environmentally
friendly wedding does not mean you have to trade down to do more. It simply means making
choices that will not harm our planet while having the day of your dreams that is both personal and
preferential. Here are some examples to think about:
Pesticide Free Blooms: Buying organically grown blooms will not only help the environment but
also save you money on decorations. Have the florist save all the left over flowers and petals so
that you can strew them around the food buffet or anywhere else that needs a little more oomph.
With no pesticides to worry about your flowers can be used for virtually anything and there is no
waist. When the party is done send the arrangements to the nearest hospital or retirement home
and brighten someone else’s day.
Organic Food: Look for a caterer that is already using organic ingredients or one that is willing to
work with you in this regard. Buy your foods from local farms and order only seasonal foods. You
will not only be helping the environment but also supporting your local farmers as well as ensuring
that your food will taste better.
Recycled Invites: As demand grows for recycled goods the wedding industry has answered by
offering a multitude of elegant and formal invitations that are strictly printed on recycled paper.
Think of all the trees you’ll be saving without having to handcuff yourself to them.
Environmentally Friendly Candles: Opt for the beeswax or soy candles, especially if candles are a
major part of your production, as they are simply better for the environment and your guests.
Go Vintage: Although using a vintage wedding dress, or a ring passed down from a grandmother,
is also environmentally sound advice we know that most brides just don’t have that option. Instead
decorate with vintage pieces such as candleholders or crystals taken from and old chandelier. The
simple fact is not buying new is green.
Say No to Floral Foam: The foam so beloved by florists everywhere is in fact poisonous because it
is made of phenol and formaldehyde which is cancer causing for the workers and a one time use
product for the world. Instead use floral frogs or tight arrangements.
The Tainted Rock: The ring is, well, a social affair but take care to choose the rock that symbolizes
all that is beautiful and pure about your love for one another. Thanks to the efforts of many we’ve
heard of Conflict Diamonds and the tragic monstrosity attached to them. Yet Conflict Diamonds
are not the only ones that might be tainted. In an effort not to support the malicious Conflict
Diamond industry many have decided to go with other gems such as the Sapphires of India not
knowing that those beauties are mined by children as well. Ask where the gem is coming from
because it matters.
Ride Eco Friendly: Consider renting a smaller but equally elegant transportation like a vintage gas
Bentley, for example, instead of a stretch Hummer limo. Yes, both will disperse emissions but
how much is the difference here. If you’re really motivated you can always go for the classic horse
and carriage. Another option is to carpool your guests to the venue thereby cutting down on
pollution.
Pay Your Taxes: Having a destination wedding is definitely a tried and true trend. To offset the
emissions many brides and grooms are paying the voluntary tax for guests flying in. While we
could not ignore the potential of this advice we must also inform you of some new contradicting
studies. The average wedding emits 14.5 tones of carbon dioxide. The inconvenient truth here is
that while most of the schemes offered are well-meaning they are also incredibly unreliable. Our
advice, do your homework and choose accordingly.
Don’t Hop Scotch: While it may seem more dramatic to blaze around town on your wedding day
the truth is you are not doing yourself any favors. Choose one venue that can host both the
wedding and the reception. By doing so you are offsetting travel emissions. In addition try to
choose a venue that is already environmentally conscience such as a botanical garden, a
museum, or a park.
The Dress: Less is more. No matter what material you decide to go with the fewer yardages your
dress requires the less your wedding will hurt the environment. The best choices are natural
textiles such as silk, cotton, or polyester made from the trees.
The Hoopla: While releasing butterflies may seem like a natural and beautiful edition to your
special day we have to point out that it may do more harm then good. According to the North
American Butterfly Association, who knew there was one, releasing butterflies may damage the
wild butterfly migration and spread disease or parasites. Before you order that special touch make
sure you're not endangering any wildlife.
It may seem like being green takes a lot more work and toughens choices on a day that is already
jam packed full of decisions and stress. You have to remember in the context of things your
wedding day is just a party to celebrate your union, and while you want things to be perfect and
easy, you may be fooling yourself if at the end of the day the memorable event has done the world,
and your friends and family, more harm then good.

Photographer: Jamie Nelson