Omaha, known for its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and bustling Old Market district, is the perfect place for a wedding celebration. As couples become more environmentally conscious, there’s a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly weddings in the city. If you’re a couple looking to minimize the environmental impact of your big day, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll explore some sustainable and eco-friendly wedding ideas that you can incorporate into your Omaha celebration, featuring local establishments and landmarks.
Choose an Eco-Friendly Venue
Omaha has a variety of beautiful venues that prioritize sustainability. Opt for a location that uses renewable energy, implements waste reduction practices, or supports environmental initiatives. Outdoor venues like Lauritzen Gardens or Elmwood Park can provide a naturally stunning backdrop without the need for additional decorations, further reducing waste. For an indoor option, consider the LEED-certified KANEKO, which focuses on environmentally-friendly practices.
Go Local and Seasonal for Your Catering
Support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint by choosing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients for your wedding menu. Omaha boasts a thriving farm-to-table scene, with caterers like Abraham Catering and Attitude on Food prioritizing sustainability. Additionally, consider incorporating plant-based options into your menu, as they tend to be more eco-friendly than meat-based dishes.
Eco-Friendly Invitations
Digital invitations are a great way to reduce paper waste, and many couples are now opting for this sustainable alternative. However, if you still prefer physical invitations, consider using recycled or plantable paper from Omaha-based stationery companies like On A Whim or Inclosed Letterpress Co.
Sustainable Décor and Flowers
Choose reusable or biodegradable decorations for your wedding, such as potted plants from Mulhall’s or vintage items from local Omaha thrift stores. When selecting flowers, opt for locally grown, seasonal blooms from florists like Piccolo’s Florist or Blooms. After the wedding, donate the floral arrangements to a local hospital, nursing home, or charity like the Open Door Mission to spread joy and minimize waste.
Green Transportation
Encourage guests to carpool or use Omaha’s Metro Transit system to reduce carbon emissions. For your wedding party, consider renting hybrid or electric vehicles from local rental companies. If your ceremony and reception are at the same location or within walking distance, such as the Durham Museum and nearby Old Market venues, this can also help to minimize transportation-related emissions.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors
Offer your guests sustainable wedding favors, such as reusable tote bags featuring Omaha landmarks, seed packets from Lanoha Nurseries, or potted plants from Paradigm Gardens. Another thoughtful option is to make a donation in your guests’ names to an environmental organization or local Omaha charity like Keep Omaha Beautiful.
Responsible Waste Management
Work with your venue and vendors to ensure that waste is minimized and properly managed. Set up recycling and composting stations for guests to dispose of their waste appropriately, and partner with a local company like Hillside Solutions to manage the composting and recycling process.
By incorporating these sustainable and eco-friendly ideas into your Omaha wedding, you can create a memorable event that aligns with your environmental values and celebrates the local community.
Complete Weddings + Events Omaha, NE | Photographers | Videographers | DJs | Photo Booth Rental | Coordination
Complete Weddings + Events Omaha is committed to supporting eco-conscious couples in their journey towards a greener celebration. Let us help you plan the perfect sustainable wedding in Omaha that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.
For more wedding planning tips and inspiration, check out our blog page. Or visit Complete Weddings + Events to learn more about our photography, videography, DJ, coordination, and photo booth rental services in Omaha, NE.