How to create a sustainable wedding using Scandinavian decor
Weddings are a time of great joy – but they can also have a significant impact on the
environment. If you’re looking for a way to keep your wedding stylish while staying eco-conscious, Scandinavian decor offers the perfect solution. Rooted in simplicity, nature, and functionality, this aesthetic embraces minimalism without sacrificing the elegance or wow-factor every wedding deserves.
Here, we explore how to create a beautifully sustainable celebration inspired by Scandinavian decor.
Choose a rustic venue
Scandinavian decor is based on natural beauty, so instead of seeking a lavish ballroom, consider hosting the majority of your day in a stunning outdoor venue such as a forest, lakeside, a cosy barn, or even a botanical garden. For the interior space, look for settings with large windows, wooden features and neutral tones to align your wedding seamlessly with the Nordic vibe.
To ensure your picture-perfect backdrop is eco-friendly, look for venues that prioritise sustainability by monitoring their energy consumption, using renewable energy sources, and implementing other green practices.
Use natural and recycled materials
Natural materials are essential in any Scandinavian decoration – think reclaimed wood, organic linen, and plenty of potted plants and foliage. Rather than purchasing pieces of wood, you could take a walk through your local woodland or forest to find unique logs and branches to compliment your rustic theme. Sliced logs make brilliant cake stands and boards for your centrepieces.
Instead of using highly processed, cotton tablecloths and napkins or disposable paper options, opt for organic linen blends. These use far less water to produce, and you could even source them from a charity shop or look at local listings to reuse some which are unwanted, but in good condition, rather than buying new.
When planning your floral decor, don’t shy away from dried flowers and foliage. With fresh, exotic flowers comes higher CO2 emissions and harsh fertilisers which can damage the environment. Pampas grass and dried lavender are elegant and sustainable dried options – just be sure they aren’t created using any chemicals or dyes. If you do have your heart set on fresh flowers, consider growing your own ahead of time or sourcing them from local florists who grow seasonal varieties.
Romance your guests with Hygge
Hygge, pronounced “hue-gah”, is the Scandinavian word for a feeling of contentment that comes from simple pleasures such as lighting a candle, snuggling under blankets, and spending intimate, cosy moments with loved ones.
Avoiding harsh, artificial lighting once the sun has set is a lovely way to create a warm, emotive atmosphere. You could use solar-powered fairylights or firepits outdoors, and illuminate your space with plenty of natural, non-toxic candles indoors. Not only does this create a romantic ambience, but it also lowers the carbon footprint of your celebration.
Don’t forget to arrange some comfy corners with soft seating, blankets and cushions for people to relax on in between dancing – look for gems in charity shops or borrow pieces from home for a personal touch with a low environmental impact.
Add small, thoughtful touches
When all is said and done, it’s the little things about your wedding that people remember most. In keeping with your sustainable theme, why not offer natural hand soap in the bathrooms alongside some bamboo towels, or give mini glass bottles of eco-friendly body wash as wedding favours?
Or, you could give your guests small potted plants, such as succulents, or reusable linen bags filled with homemade treats such as Swedish cinnamon buns. These thoughtful favours align perfectly with the eco-conscious spirit of your wedding while offering your guests something they’ll actually use.
In conclusion, a Scandinavian themed, sustainable wedding doesn’t have to compromise on style or beauty. By following these tips, you can create a memorable wedding that’s both breathtaking and kind to the planet.