by Stephanie Padovani
The DJ Solution

Ever since the economy took a nose-dive, brides and grooms in the Hudson Valley have been carefully watching their green–the remaining green cash in their pockets, that is. But there’s another type of green establishing a new trend among weddings in the Hudson Valley: the “green” wedding. It turns out that planning a green wedding that’s good for the environment is also good for your pocket book.

Exactly what is a green wedding?
A green wedding incorporates eco friendly practices and utilizes environmentally friendly products and services as much as possible to reduce energy consumption and the harmful impact on the environment. In plain English, it’s about planning a wedding using natural and organic products that produce less waste and inflict less damage on the environment.

Why should you consider a green wedding?
There are a lot of reasons to consider a green wedding. Some couples do it to save the environment, to support good health, to demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving the environment, or just because it makes them feel good. But when you’re planning a wedding in a recession, the most compelling reason to consider a green wedding is that it helps you save money. Surprisingly, green weddings actually cost less money. The more you REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE, the more you save. The more you conserve, the less you spend. For example, choosing local, in season blooms for your floral arrangements is environmentally friendly and less expensive. Sending wedding invitations made from recycled paper and asking guests to RSVP by telephone or email will save hundreds of dollars on response cards and envelopes. Perhaps the greenest wedding dress of all is a “recycled” (used) wedding dress. You can buy a used designer dress at a fraction of the cost, without sacrificing style.

If you want to plan a green wedding, where do you start?
The internet is a wonderful resource for planning an eco-friendly wedding. Simply search Google for “green wedding favors” or “green invitations” and it churns out dozens of options. One thing to remember is that just because a product or service is labeled “green” doesn’t mean it’s good for the environment. A truly green business can offer proof of their environmentally friendly practices.

The following sites offer information and resources that will help make your wedding a little greener.

Natural Resources Defense Council www.nrdc.org – The NRDC is arguably the most effective environmental legislation and awareness organization in the United States. You’ll find a guide to greening your event and simple steps to living green, along with ways to locate green businesses.
The Nature Conservancy www.nature.org – The Nature Conservancy is one of the world’s most respected environmental advocacy groups.
http://OrganicClothing.Blogs.com – You’ll find numerous sources of green wedding dresses and attire, along with ideas for planning an eco friendly wedding on a budget.

Where do I go to find green wedding options here in the Hudson Valley?
The Hudson Valley offers a variety of options when planning a green wedding. Many caterers have delicious menus featuring organic, local foods. These wedding vendors often advertise their “green” status, so they are relatively easy to find. HudsonValleyWeddings.com – This website has a comprehensive listing of local vendors including a Green
Vendor section.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a “green” bride, every eco friendly wedding choice makes a difference…and saves you money. Talk to your caterer, photographer and DJ for ideas about what you can do to conserve energy and choose more environmentally friendly products and services.

Stephanie Padovani
The DJ Solution
845-473-1086
www.TheDJSolution.com