15 Questions to Ask Yourself when Planning an Eco-Friendly Wedding

Woohoo! You’re engaged! So, now comes the planning. Planning your wedding can be super excited, but also a little overwhelming. If you’re aiming for a celebration that reflects your love and your values, sustainability can play a big role in your decision-making. But “eco-friendly” means different things to different people. The best way to start? Ask yourself the right questions early in the process. These will help you define your priorities, guide your vendor choices, and keep your wedding as green as possible without losing sight of joy and beauty. When planning your wedding, here is a list of questions you may want to ask yourself concerning sustainability.

Photo by Alaura Creative

1. What does “eco-friendly” mean to me and my partner?

Is it reducing waste, supporting local businesses, cutting carbon emissions, or all of the above? Defining your personal priorities will make decisions easier down the line.

2. How many guests do we truly want to invite?

Smaller guest lists naturally mean less waste, less travel, and often lower costs.

3. Can we choose a venue that’s close to most guests?

Minimizing travel can significantly cut your wedding’s carbon footprint. Bonus points if the venue is accessible by public transit.

4. Does our venue have sustainable practices in place?

Think recycling, composting, energy efficiency, and eco-conscious policies for food and décor. Here’s a list of Green Wedding Alliance-approved venues who definitely do have green practices in place.

Photo provided by Loft on Lake | Captured by Lofty Weddings

5. Can we host the ceremony and reception in the same location?

This eliminates extra transportation for guests and vendors.

6. How can we reduce single-use items?

From glassware instead of plastic cups to real linens instead of disposables, small swaps add up.

7. What rental or secondhand options are available?

From dresses to furniture, reusing items is one of the easiest ways to go green.

Photos provided by ANEW Vintage Rentals

8. Are our flowers locally grown and in season?

Choosing blooms that don’t require long-distance shipping supports local farmers and cuts emissions. Here’s a list of Green Wedding Alliance florists who make sure they are sourcing their blooms in the greenest ways possible.

9. Can we incorporate plantable, reusable, or digital invitations?

Stationery can be stunning without generating unnecessary waste.

10. How can we make our menu more sustainable?

Think seasonal, locally sourced, and plant-forward dishes to reduce environmental impact. Make sure to choose an eco-friendly caterer that already has tips and tricks to achieve a greener wedding.

Photo provided by RPM Events | Captured by Teresa Williams

11. Will our wedding favors get used — or tossed?

Choose something edible, plantable, or meaningful instead of trinkets that collect dust. Here are some ideas to get you started.

12. How can we work with vendors who share our values?

Seek out professionals committed to sustainable practices — and who can offer creative solutions. We’ve got a whole list of sustainable wedding and event planners who would love to help steer you in the right direction.

Photo provided by Shh Events

13. What can we rent, borrow, or DIY instead of buying new?

Not everything needs to be owned forever — and sharing resources builds community.

14. How can we responsibly handle décor after the wedding?

Donate flowers, repurpose signage, or sell items to other couples at the Wedding Recyclery.

15. How will we share our sustainability story with guests?

Your choices might inspire others — include a note in your program or signage explaining your eco-friendly decisions.

Photo by JPP Studios

Your wedding can be both breathtaking and better for the planet. By asking these questions early and often, you’ll create a celebration that feels authentic to you, supports your community, and leaves a lighter footprint.

If you’re ready to connect with like-minded vendors who can help bring your green vision to life, the Green Wedding Alliance is here to guide you every step of the way.