Our team has worked in the wedding industry for over 15 years, and have loved every second of photographing weddings! In this time, we’ve seen different colors come in and out of style, a variety of ceremony traditions, and all the trending music. But one thing that is up and coming, and we are so excited about, is weddings that give back!
What does this mean? Couples are now finding ways to help others during their big day, help save the planet, and give back to charities! It’s not only a great way to help out your favorite organization, but is a great way to start off your marriage!
“How do I give back through my wedding?!” you ask? Well there are endless ways to help others during your special day! Here are a couple of our favorite ideas:
Eco Friendly Invitations
Have your invitation designer print everything on recycled paper! You can still have everything you love on your invitations, just replace new paper with recycled, and boom, you are giving back! One of our favorites? Citrus Press Co! She does an amazing job at reducing her carbon footprint while making beautiful products!
Fair Trade Wedding Dress
Celia Grace is one of my favorite dress designers, and not only is their work beautiful, they are all made with eco friendly materials. But that’s not all. All Celia Grace wedding dresses are made in safe, fair, and empowering Fair Trade conditions and they give back locally with each dress sold. Win, win and win!
Hotels for Hope
Hotels for Hope is a complimentary service that partners with bridal parties and event planners to help find and book the most ideal hotels for their wedding room blocks. Every room night booked through out services generates a $2 donation to charitable organizations that seek to help children live happier and healthier lives
Charitable Donations, Rather Then Gifts
Are you already settled in your home together? Are you not in the need of new towels or a Kitchen-Aid? Have your guests donate instead of buying you a gift! Almost all couples have a wedding website these days. Make your charity registry through The Good Beginning. This online registry allows couples to choose and make a link requesting donations for all kinds of local, national and international charities that support causes like education all the way to animal rights, right onto their wedding website. Some of our favorites? Heifer International and Charity: Water!
Vendors That Donate
Lastly, you could find local vendors that give back for you! Supporting small businesses is SO important, but a lot of times, you are doing more than just supporting a local friend. Many small businesses donate a portion of their profits to local organizations! During your planning process, make sure to ask if they have any charities they like to support!
Have other ideas? We’d love to ear how you are giving back! Get creative with it, and let us know what you are up to!