Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed…and Something Green!
- Even a White Wedding Can be Green
June is just a few months away. For many of this year’s projected 23 million American brides, that means one thing: It’s time to choose a wedding dress!
Gorgeous – but Unsustainable
Your typical wedding gown is a frothy dream consisting of yards and yards of silky, shiny fabric…frequently made from polyester or other unbiodegradable material. The fabric – whether natural or synthetic – is usually treated with chemicals, and often requires additional chemical treatment for proper cleaning and storage.
If creating such a thing for a few hours’ worth of glory strikes you as wasteful and irresponsible, you’re not the only one. Increasingly, eco-savvy brides are going green, even for a white wedding.
Greener Gowns
Of course, the greenest option may still involve those yards of polyester. Borrowing or buying a pre-owned wedding dress is an economical option that’s also easy on the Earth. If you’re not lucky enough to have inherited your mother’s or grandmother’s gown, a trip to your local resale shop or consignment boutique may yield just the treasure you’re looking for.
Or, you might go a step further and make your gown purchase count for more than just looking fabulous on your wedding day. The Making Memories Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and to fulfilling the wishes and dreams of women afflicted with this tragic disease. Their “Brides Against Breast Cancer – Nationwide Tour of Gowns” offers brides-to-be an affordable shopping opportunity while making wishes and dreams come true for women and men who are losing their fight against breast cancer. The Tour travels to over 32 locations nationwide every year. You can find out more about tour locations or how to donate your gently used bridal attire by visiting www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org.
Of course, there is something alluring about having your very own wedding gown. After all, it’s your day! Be sure to check back – in future posts we’ll be featuring green and sustainable gown options for the bride who opts for new.
