Planning a wedding with sustainability in mind doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style, beauty, or joy. In fact, some of the most impactful changes are also the easiest to make. Whether you're just getting started or looking for simple ways to reduce waste, these 10 low-effort swaps can help you plan a celebration that’s as thoughtful as it is stunning. And with help from Green Wedding Alliance vendors — who are committed to doing things differently — it’s easier than ever to create a wedding that reflects your values and your vision.

Weddings are more than just a celebration—they’re a chance to give back. At the Green Wedding Alliance, we believe in the power of weddings to uplift local artists, farmers, and makers. By choosing vendors who are rooted in your community, your celebration becomes a meaningful investment in sustainability and creativity—right here in Chicago.

There’s a quiet kind of elegance in sustainability—it shows up in thoughtful choices, reused materials, and refined logistics. For couples who want their wedding to reflect not just their love, but their values, sustainability isn't a trend—it’s an intention.

In the world of event rentals, true sustainability goes beyond aesthetics. It lives in the care taken to launder linens efficiently, coordinate low-emission deliveries, and eliminate unnecessary waste at every step.

Written by Green Wedding Alliance member BBJ La Tavola, this post explores how behind-the-scenes practices can elevate both the beauty and the integrity of an event. Because at the end of the day, sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s about mindset.