When it comes to paper, it’s traditionally thought of as not being very environmentally friendly. However, you can have some incredibly beautiful wedding invitations and still stay “green.” Here are some of the best tips for creating invitations that are eco friendly and environmentally safe.
Paper Choices
Wood pulp papers that have not been created from recycled paper or sawmill by-products are obviously not the best choice. There are some beautiful paper choices available that have high cotton content. Since cotton is one of the world’s most renewable resources, it’s a great choice for your paper. The cotton that is used in creating these paper choices is a by-product of processing. This means that you are using part of the cotton that would otherwise go to waste.
These heavy weight cotton paper choices are perfect for engraving and most of your more expensive wedding invitation printing companies prefer this stronger paper. It holds the engraving indentations much better and creates a crisper look and feel.
You also want to look for paper that is made without chlorine. The lignin from wood pulp makes paper yellow over time. Chlorine is used to get that bright white paper. It’s harmful to the environment, so look for paper that is bleached with hydrogen peroxide or oxygen.
Paper Sizes
You can save a tree simply by downsizing your wedding invitations. Look for the invitations that only require one postage stamp. This will not only save you a few dollars on the mailing costs, you will be doing another small part for the environment.
The RSVP and Address Cards
There are more and more couples that are leaving out the separate RSVP and address cards in their wedding invitations. Many are using a wedding website to allow their guests to RSVP via email. This is a very effective method in reducing the amount of paper used for wedding invitations. It’s also a great way for your guests to see your wedding registry, which should never be included on your wedding invitation.
Envelopes
It’s very easy to find envelopes that are made from recycled paper. Even if you don’t choose a wedding invitation that is strictly green, choosing an envelope that is will help. Make sure the envelope is made from paper that will not allow the ink to bleed when you address them.
A Few Final Thoughts
With the environment at the forefront of many people’s thoughts, your wedding invitations can make a very “green” statement. It doesn’t mean you must sacrifice the quality of your invitations, either. Have fun searching through the stationary stores and the bridal boutiques for those invitations that are considered environmentally friendly. There are many other areas of your wedding which can be eco-friendly as well. Include a packet of seeds with the wedding favors, choose an alternative fuel vehicle for your wedding car, or even plant a tree at the reception. The possibilities are really rather exciting when you consider all your options.
