Running a wedding business with sustainability at its core is not only a smart business move, it’s an essential one. As couples become more conscious of their environmental impact, they’re seeking out suppliers who share their values. In this article, we hear from some of the incredible winners of the Sustainable Wedding Awards, pioneers who are leading the way in eco-conscious practices within the industry. From florists to venues, dress designers to planners, they share their expert tips, insights, and inspiration for running a sustainable wedding business and planning beautiful green weddings without compromising on style or quality.
Sustainability in the wedding industry isn’t just a trend, it’s a responsibility. At Hayne House, they lead by example with a deep-rooted commitment to eco-conscious practices. Led by Fleur Record-Smith, a Sustainable Wedding Alliance Ambassador, the venue is proudly B Corp certified and actively works toward net zero, showing couples that beautiful weddings and sustainability can go hand in hand. Over in Scotland, Comrie Croft champions low-impact celebrations with renewable energy, strong public transport links, and an on-site ‘wedding shed’ filled with reusable décor. Their down-to-earth approach empowers couples to embrace a more mindful way to celebrate love. Shropshire Petals brings sustainable flair through their 100% biodegradable confetti, grown and handpicked on their British farm. They take responsibility for their entire product lifecycle, with recycled packaging, take-back schemes, and a strong focus on industry collaboration to promote greener choices. Meanwhile, Eco Bride Studio is redefining wedding fashion by offering pre-loved, sample, and ethically sourced dresses that make brides feel amazing without compromising the planet. Their business is built on purpose, transparency, and empowering couples to choose more sustainable options, one gown at a time. All four businesses are not only deeply committed to sustainability but have also been recognised for their efforts, making their tips and advice especially valuable for others looking to follow in their footsteps. Let’s take a look at what they have to say…
Build Your Business With Purpose
Sustainable wedding businesses start with a clear mission. Whether it’s reducing waste or cutting emissions, align your services with strong values and communicate them authentically.
Eco Bride Studio advises, “Build your business around a clear sustainability mission. Every product or service should reflect your values. Share your story authentically – people connect with brands that genuinely care about the planet.”
Hayne House adds, “The first step to being a truly eco-conscious business is knowing your impact. Conduct a sustainability audit and set measurable goals, for example, cutting emissions, reducing energy usage, or reaching net zero. Track and report your progress regularly and share it transparently with couples and the industry. Certification or memberships with sustainability-focused organisations can help guide and validate your journey.”
Comrie Croft echoes this ethos by taking the lead in teaching couples about sustainable wedding choices. “Start exploring blogs and resources that show people how certain wedding decisions, like what flowers to pick, what menu to have at what time of year or how to decorate, can have a big impact on the planet. It’s all about raising awareness and making it easier for couples to make greener choices.”
Collaborate and Connect With The Industry
Sustainability is a team effort. Building a network of ethical suppliers, learning from other eco-entrepreneurs, and partnering on green initiatives creates a stronger, more unified eco-conscious community.
Eco Bride Studio encourages, “Growing a sustainable wedding business can be challenging, but you’re not alone. Connect with other eco-entrepreneurs, seek mentorship, and participate in industry networks. Learning from others’ experiences can help you navigate challenges and discover new opportunities.”
Hayne House advises, “Work with local, ethical, and environmentally responsible suppliers, from caterers and florists to décor and hire companies. Creating a trusted network of like-minded businesses not only reduces transport emissions but also strengthens your venue’s sustainability credentials and offers couples an easy route to planning an eco-friendly day.”
Shropshire Petals also highlights, “Collaboration is key to creating a greener wedding industry. We’ve found working with venues and suppliers to highlight the benefits of petal confetti and other sustainable choices has encouraged more eco-conscious decisions. Engaging in or organising eco-friendly styled shoots is a great way to showcase sustainable wedding ideas and inspire couples to make greener choices.”
Comrie Croft takes collaboration to the next level with a unique idea: “Creating a group which couples get invited to be part of, where they can share costs on things like flowers, and even sell or donate decorations they don’t need.” This group also encourages the exchange of ideas, from seasonal menus to wedding website tips, creating a supportive and resourceful community for couples.
Venue Comrie Croft / Photography Notarelly Photography
Educate and Inspire Couples
Share your knowledge and sustainability practices openly. Help couples understand the impact of their choices through transparency, tips, and thoughtful storytelling.
Eco Bride Studio says, “Your couples are on their own sustainable wedding journey. Offer tips, guides, and transparent information about your eco practices. When couples understand the value of their sustainable choices, they become loyal supporters for your brand.”
Shropshire Petals shares, “Sustainability starts with awareness. Wedding businesses have a unique opportunity to educate couples on the environmental impact of their choices. By highlighting eco-friendly alternatives and sharing sustainability stories, businesses can help make green weddings the norm rather than the exception.”
Comrie Croft reinforces this by stating, “We’re all learning as we go, but I really believe we need to take the lead in teaching couples about sustainable wedding choices.” They promote using educational tools and discussions to help couples connect their decisions, like flower choices or seasonal menus, to their environmental impact.
Dress Eco Bride Studio
Rethink Waste and Materials
Minimising packaging, using recyclable or reusable materials, and adopting circular practices, like rental décor or take-back programs, are key to a low-impact business model.
Hayne House recommends, “Reduce single-use items, implement recycling and composting, and consider a rental or reuse system for décor, signage, and props. Offer couples the option to borrow or rent from your in-house collection to avoid unnecessary purchases. Work with your suppliers to minimise waste, as a well-considered waste strategy can lower costs, reduce environmental impact, and become a real selling point for your business.”
Shropshire Petals explains, “Sustainability goes beyond the product itself. Businesses should consider the full lifecycle of their packaging. At Shropshire Petals, we use 80% recycled board for postal packaging, plant-based inks, paper-based tape, and a paperless dispatch system. Our circular economy initiatives also allow customers to return items like confetti pops and wands for recycling or reuse. Encouraging customers to recycle and reuse packaging helps foster eco-conscious habits within the wedding community.”
At Comrie Croft, they’ve created a space where couples can leave behind decorations for others to use. “It helps them save money and cuts down on waste, since they don’t have to buy the same items over and over again.” This simple yet effective circular solution helps extend the life of wedding items and reinforces the importance of sharing and repurposing.
Tutti Frutti Confetti by Shropshire Petals
Measure Your Impact and Aim For Improvement
Track your sustainability progress through audits, certifications, or goal setting. Being able to measure and share your impact builds trust and keeps your business accountable.
Hayne House shares, “Set measurable goals and track your progress. Whether it’s reducing energy usage, waste, or overall emissions, having tangible targets helps steer your business in the right direction. Being transparent about your journey and celebrating the wins also helps couples feel part of the impact.”
The Orangery at Hayne House
Sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s the future of the wedding industry. As our award-winning experts have shown, running a sustainable wedding business is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. By taking steps to reduce waste, support local, and educate your couples along the way, you’re playing a vital role in shaping a more thoughtful, planet-friendly celebration. Whether you’re just starting to embrace sustainability or are already on your journey, these insights offer guidance to help you grow your impact and inspire change, one wedding at a time.
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