2010-04-13 08:00:00 by SMARTBRIDE
Bride-To-Be: An Eco-Friendly Favor Alternative
Finding the perfect guest favors for a wedding can be a daunting task. How do you find something that everyone will both appreciate and use, but that also reflects your relationship? My fiancé and I thought of many options (shot glasses, wine, etc.) but they all seemed so cliché.
Image Courtesy of Make-A-Wish® Canada
While doing one of many online searches trying to find ideas for unique favors, I came across the Make-A-Wish foundation’s website. Make-A-Wish has a program where you can donate a set amount of money based on your numbers. In return, they provide a sign informing your guests that you donated to the cause in their honor. Although I have no problem spending on the favors if they’re worthwhile and actually get used, many times I’ve seen favors thrown out, left at the hall, or taken home but never used.
The donation favor idea seemed like the perfect opportunity to donate a substantial amount to a worthy cause. Another bonus to this favor alternative is the lack of paper and packaging associated with it. In this eco-conscious time, it's important to many people that they play their part by making greener choices.
Although it’s not always realistic to have a completely green wedding, I want to do my part. We feel that eliminating the packaging for 150 favors is a good first step in minimizing the environmental impact of our wedding. In the end, we're not going to be making a donation to Make-A-Wish, but it did put the idea in our heads, and so we have chosen another charity close to both of us (as well as our families) and are proud to be helping two causes at the same time.
*SmartBride Tip*: By altering even a small aspect of your wedding, you can make a contribution to the environment. Each eco-friendly act adds up and will make a difference!
Alicia
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About our Guest Blogger: Alicia Mason
On December 23, 2008 I got engaged to my best friend and soul mate. We set the date for September 25, 2010 and for the past year I have been sleeping and breathing everything wedding including; the venue, food, flowers, decorator, invitations, and finding the perfect dress…all on a budget!
While I didn't go crazy meeting with 10 florists and 10 decorators, I put a lot of thought into each decision and was able to find great deals along the way. I am thrilled that the SmartBride Boutique ladies have asked me to be a guest blogger in order to give you details about my wedding planning. While the planning isn't easy, it is exciting and I hope as you plan your wedding, you'll find my experiences helpful.
More posts from Bride-to-Be Alicia:
