Your Fabulous Green Wedding - Sustainable Gift Alternatives

Whether or not you are an eco-conscious couple, gifts are an inevitable part of your wedding celebration. Your guests will want to give you something meaningful to show their support as you begin your life together. Here are three ways you can minimize the environmental impact of your wedding with your registry (and avoid ending up with an attic full of gifts that you don't want).

• Choose a beneficiary. Ask your friends and family to make a donation to your favorite charity in lieu of giving you a gift.

• Register with your values. Create a gift registry of all eco-friendly and green products ranging from bamboo salad bowls to organic cotton towels.

• Avoid traditional gift registries. Give your guests the opportunity to help offset the cost of your honeymoon or contribute to your "house fund" instead of asking for physical gifts.

It is also traditional for brides and grooms to give small gifts to wedding attendees as a thank you for joining the celebration. You don't have to forgo the favors in order to have a green wedding. Here are a few ideas...

• Give eco. Give gifts that tread lightly on the planet such as recycled paper boxes filled with fair trade chocolates or a packet of flower seeds.

• Give with purpose. Give gifts that play a role in the wedding, so that you know they aren't being wasted. For example, if your wedding is outside in the sun, you could give a gift of personalized fans or if you are serving Asian food you could give a gift of personalized chop sticks.

• Give with sentiment. Give gifts that are meaningful to your guest and perhaps even keep the celebration going beyond the weekend. A fun CD with key music from your ceremony and reception will surely be listened to again and again.

Tips provided by Meghan Connolly Haupt, founder of C5 company. C5 is a leader in sustainable custom engagement and wedding rings. Visit their website to learn more about Green Weddings.

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