Simple Ideas to Make Your Wedding Sustainable
Photographed by Liberty Pearl Photography
Even the smallest of things can help make a difference…
From sourcing local and seasonal produce, to recycling accessories and reusing a preloved bridal gown, there are so many opportunities for brides and grooms to be sustainable and authentic on their wedding day.
As a country house venue in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty, we are extremely passionate about our environmental and sustainability policies, and always strive to minimise our impact as much as possible (we have previously won both Gold and Silver at the Cornwall Tourism Awards for our sustainability). There are lots of amazing wedding suppliers across Cornwall and the South West who share our vision of being as environmentally friendly as possible, and we are very happy to feature a snippet of these on our recommended suppliers list.
Here are just some of the ways that you can make your difference on your big day, whilst still seeing all of your dreams come true!
Local & Seasonal Produce
Match your wedding breakfast to the season and make the most of your local produce. Our recommended caterers are inspired by the abundance and quality of West Country produce and the changing seasons, and will work closely with you to create a bespoke menu that matches the month, supports your local farmers and producers, and is completely delicious! You can also choose a cake maker (like Lulu’s Bakery), who supports organic and Fairtrade ingredients.
Why not go that extra mile and donate any leftover food to a local foodbank or homeless shelter - this is something we do with all items left behind by our overnight guests.
Upcycle, Recycle & Repurpose
Household and industry items can become things of great beauty with purpose. Just to name a few … old wooden pallets can make a perfect low-level table to enjoy a picnic themed wedding breakfast and you can use dry natural petals for your confetti (learn how to make here). Compostable plates are a great substitute for your evening munchies or there is the option to hire your table wear and glasses (and even props) from the likes of Abbotts and Out of the Ordinary. Danni at The Wed Hub is a fantastic stylist who can help with your natural style and coordination.
Reloved Dresses
Make a difference whilst shopping for your dream wedding dress and choose a second hand bridal gown. Bridal Reloved specialises in pre-owned high end designer wedding dresses and is one of our favourite local boutiques. If you would prefer to buy a brand new dress, there is still the opportunity to resell, donate or recycle after your big day.
Locally Sourced & Seasonal Flowers
Support a florist who sources locally grown flowers and choose an array of seasonal (or wild) flowers for your arrangements. You could even replant the seeds to grow new ever-lasting flowers, or dry your bouquet to create a memorable piece of art to hang in your martial home. The Flower Mill Cornwall created this stunning bouquet and is a supplier we highly recommend.
Seed packets and small potted plants can also act as your eco-friendly wedding favours.
Outdoor Ceremonies & Celebrations
Minimise requirements to purchase decorations and incorporate the natural beauty of the great outdoors as the backdrop for your wedding day. Whether you choose an open-air ceremony or follow in the footsteps of Lois & Sam and celebrate with a garden party, or both, this is a fun and simple way to make your difference (and don’t worry, we always have a plan B for the weather!). With the new laws recently extended, we are very happy to now offer over 10 unique outdoor ceremony locations on the Pentillie estate.
Make Your Own
The pandemic saw many of our brides and grooms getting ‘hands on’ with their decorations, centrepieces and stationary alike. It not only makes the planning process a lot more personal, but it adds a truly unique element to your special day and can be lots of fun for you as a couple. You could paint your menus, make your own cake stand or even create a wild flower cocktail syrup - why not try our elderflower cordial recipe. For the super romantic (perhaps a little bit of talent might also help!), how about ‘composing your own’ – from vows to love poems and songs.
Styled Photoshoot Suppliers
Photographer: Liberty Pearl
Stylist: The Wed Hub
Florist: The Flower Mill Cornwall
Dresses: Bridal Reloved, Tavistock
Hair & Make Up: Adele Hack
Cake: Lulu’s Bakery