Hi I’m Joanna and I’m a wedding and elopement photographer based in Calgary, AB and the Rockies - but I also have a BSc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Alberta. As the world transitions into more environmentally-conscious technologies and practices, I thought I could help my couples have the resources to be more sustainable. This blog will be regularly updated with tips and tricks to how to have a sustainable wedding!

Elope.
If you have never heard of or understood the meaning of modern elopements, some couples may find it a better alternative for them to go on an adventure in nature rather than hosting a multi-thousand event. Elopements are more intimate, intentional, and adventurous, and you can read more about elopements in a future blog post.
Select a local venue.
By this, I mean choose to hold your ceremony at local parks, beaches, botanical gardens, or greenhouses. More often than not, the pretty green backdrops will be stunning in photographs!
Selecting a venue that is also local to you and your guests can minimize travel time and reduce carbon emissions.
Partner with vendors who value sustainable practices!
If a vendor doesn’t explicitly state that they have sustainability values - ask them! How much plastic will they use? Do they recycle? How do they dispose of food waste?
Another way is to work with local businesses in the area instead of paying for a travel fee.
Send online invitations and communications.
Luckily, there are many online wedding sites nowadays to send your Save-the-Dates and RSVPs by a link instead of through physical mail.
If you do wish to keep the physical invitations - use recycled paper and products!
Utilize Facebook Marketplace.
This holds true for other second hand shops or thrift stores. Save a LOT of money by taking the time to reuse decor or styling items used by former brides.
Similarly, once you’re done with your wedding, consider selling items second hand rather than throwing out the goods!
Rent or borrow decorations.
Similar to the previous point, look into borrowing decorations from friends or relatives, or contact rental companies! It can be very easy to purchase many single-use decor pieces, so stick to choosing items that could be reused by another bride, or use as decorations for your own home!
Check if your catering is locally sourced.
There are many catering companies that value locally sourced, organic, and ethically-produced ingredients. Minimize your food waste by accurately estimating your guest count and donating leftovers to local charities.
Beverage Tips.
Instead of using bottled water, serve tap water or filtered water in reusable glass containers.
For your alcohol, source it from local wineries, distilleries, and breweries.
How to have sustainable attire.
Consider looking into pre-owned gowns and dresses on Facebook Marketplace or even at local boutiques.
Sustainable fabrics to look for include organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials.
If you have a wedding party, encourage them to wear outfits they already own and color coordinate - or choose outfits that they can wear again.
Waste Management.
Set up labeled recycling and composting stations at the venue, especially during reception.
Minimize single-use cutlery by using recyclable plates, cups, and cutlery.

Those were 10 tips as to how to have a sustainable wedding! There are still many areas of a wedding that could be covered, so I will be regularly updating this post in the future!

If you are local to Alberta and want to have me as your elopement or wedding photographer, you can contact me through my contact page.