Waste Not-Want Not

I know I have alluded to this in past entries, but I think it’s important enough to mention again. It’s all of our responsibility to protect the environment, be mindful of waste, and be socially responsible. Additionally, in these tough financial times, I think most would be interested in saving some dough! Of course, like everyone, I too have my hang-ups! When it comes to the wedding budget, I help my clients prioritize and define where they want to spend their money. Same holds true being conservative on waste, choosing items that are environmentally friendly, and offering budget friendly ideas. Many of my clients want to conserve on certain aspects of their wedding, but also, like us, don’t want to completely say “bye-bye” to all those beautiful extras. We guide our clients in where to conserve and give them ideas on how to do so, while maintaining the look and feel of the wedding. So, that’s what I want to do. I want to discuss just a few areas where you can conserve and give you great resources on how to do so.



Favors – Anyone who knows us, knows that we are not fond of wedding favors. We have had couples offer favors, and we have had couples not offer favors. In our experience favors offer nothing to the event. I did not conduct a scientific study, but it seems to me that the guests not getting the favors were just as happy, and felt just as loved. Surprisingly, 95% of the time, the favors are left behind, for me to pick up and throw in the trash.

If you do not like the idea of going without favors, and many couples do, Why not put your money towards something important? There are a few charity registries in which you can donate money to a charity that’s important to you. You could donate the money in your or your guests’ names. What’s better gift than giving back on your wedding day? This way, you are giving your guest something that’s meaningful to both to you and to them. www.idofoundation.org is an excellent resource. They will allow you to not only create a foundational favor registry, but also will allow you to create a gift registry as well.

Transportation – I don’t know about any of you, but I hate buying gas. Wedding transportation is one of those sticky situations in my mind. One, couples want to get to and from their wedding in style. Limos are the standard choice, but this may be an area where you can cut down significantly. Many couples are opting to get married at a location that offers the ceremony and reception at one location. One huge advantage to this is that everyone can “get there” and you do not have to hire specialty cars and such. For those where their ceremony and reception sites are in different locations, you can opt not to transport the wedding party, cutting down on limos, gas, and cost. Often times, wedding party members and/or their dates have their own cars (rental or otherwise) that they can use and you can use your money to rent a classic car – or better yet – hire an hourly airport shuttle. The Lincoln town car will cost you less, and offer you one way transport (rather than the expensive 3-4 hour minimums that most limo companies offer).

Horsepower is a nice way to come and go in style – and better yet, no gas consumption. How about contacting a valet company to drive you in a hybrid or electric car? There are many options and many possibilities that are “green” and budget friendly, and not take away from the elegance of the day!

A few small changes by many couples add up to a lot of energy and money savings!
Happy planning!