How to Slay a Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Wedding

Because you can save the planet and still have the best damn day ever

Planning your dream day shouldn’t mean compromising your values – especially when it comes to sustainability. If you’re all about big love and a lighter footprint, we’ve got you. An eco-friendly wedding can be chic, personal, and totally on-trend, without being extra on the planet.

From what you wear to what you serve, here’s how to slay sustainably – and make every choice count.

Start With the Why

Before diving into florals and favours, ask yourself:

– What matters most to us?
Reducing waste? Supporting local? Going zero plastic? Using pre-loved everything? Lock in your top sustainability goals first – they’ll guide your decisions and keep your planning stress-free(ish).

-Where can we have the biggest impact?
Food, decor, transport, clothing – pick your eco-battles based on what feels most doable for you.

Choose a Venue That Gets It

Your venue sets the tone – and it can also set the footprint.

Look for spaces that:
– Use renewable energy or offset emissions
– Have recycling and composting options
– Are naturally beautiful (less need for décor)
– Support local conservation or community initiatives

Regionally Speaking…

Queenstown & Wanaka: Think lakeside lodges, luxury eco-retreats, and epic outdoor ceremony spots. Some even offer heli-drop weddings with carbon offset options.

Wellington & Kapiti: Quirky venues with strong green credentials, plus city gardens and community halls with serious charm.

Auckland: Lots of upcycled warehouses and urban greenery – plus easy access to local vendors who do sustainable well.

Hawke’s Bay: Vineyards with a side of sustainability – seasonal menus, organic wines, and rolling views. Yes please.

Southland & Fiordland: Remote, rugged, and perfect for intimate weddings where nature is the backdrop.

* Hot tip: Always ask venues what eco-practices they have in place. If they say “composting toilets” – don’t panic, that’s actually a win.

Ethical Fashion = A Whole New Look

You don’t have to wear something brand new to look unreal.

Hire it or thrift it: Jump onto the Slay My Day Marketplace to buy or hire pre-loved wedding dresses, suits, accessories, or even that designer veil you’ve had bookmarked forever.

Go vintage: Vintage = personality, character, and zero waste.

Support local: NZ has amazing designers using organic, upcycled, or natural fabrics – get behind them.

Custom updates: Got Mum’s dress or a special piece? Get it altered for a one-of-a-kind modern twist.

Grooms, it’s your moment too – rent a killer suit or shop from local tailors using sustainable practices.

Food That Feels Good

Food is one of the biggest areas where you can go green (and still be gourmet):

Choose local and seasonal – less transport, more flavour
Work with caterers who use organic or sustainably farmed produce
Offer plant-based or hybrid menus – good for the planet, and your budget
Say no to single-use plastic (think glassware, compostable plates, or stylish vintage hire)
Rethink favours – instead of throwaway trinkets, go for:
🌿 Potted herbs or succulents
🧁 Locally made treats
💚 Donations to environmental charities

Decor & Florals That Don’t End Up in the Bin

The key here? Reuse, repurpose, and rethink.

– Hire your decor instead of buying new – our Marketplace is packed with gorgeous candles, signage, tableware and more

– Choose seasonal, local blooms from florists who grow or forage responsibly

– Dried flowers or potted plants = less waste, longer life

– DIY with upcycled materials: driftwood centrepieces, second-hand vases, or even reusable fabric backdrops

– Candlelight over fairy lights (less power, more glow)

And don’t forget to donate or resell your decor post-wedding to keep the good vibes going.

Real Talk: You Don’t Need All the Stuff

The biggest sustainability hack? Keep it simple.

– Ditch the extras no one remembers

– Focus on moments over things

– Reuse, recycle, rent – and encourage your guests to do the same

Your Wedding, Your Way – Just a Bit Greener

Planning a sustainable wedding isn’t about perfection – it’s about intention. Every mindful choice adds up, and we’re here for it. From pre-loved styling to low-waste catering, your dream day can still be luxe, stylish, and kind to the planet.

Ready to slay sustainably?
✨ Explore our Marketplace to buy, hire, or sell pre-loved wedding magic
✨ Support vendors who are doing good things for the earth
✨ Create a day that feels like you – just a bit greener