our eco-friendly nuptials

I've always cared about the environment, and I try and make my life choices accordingly. I didn't even really think about having an "eco-friendly" wedding, but it appears our wedding is shaping up to be just that, and I'm liking the label.

We're having our reception at one of the most eco-friendly, LEED certified buildings in the country, the Philip Merrill Center at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Annapolis. It's right on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and is gorgeously modern, with amazing architecture and this stark sense of minimalism that I love. The rental price was pretty steep, especially since we're having the cliche Saturday-wedding-in-June due to scheduling restrictions at the Naval Academy Chapel (where we're having our ceremony). However, it felt good knowing that the rental fee was going towards a cause I support instead of the coffer of a hotel... and did I mention it's stunning?

Our caterer is literally 2 miles down the road, so our locally-sourced meal won't have far to travel to get to us. I'm assembling centerpiece decor from thrift store finds and other, recently married brides (thanks Weddingbee classifieds!). My wedding dress is a sample dress, so the time/work/energy that would have gone into creating a custom ordered gown isn't going to be an issue. Our florist is using locally-grown flowers whenever possible, and our potential cupcakery is run out of a friend's home using fresh and organic ingredients. I did all of the above without even thinking. Unfortunately, 90% of our guests will be flying in for the wedding (we're originally from Texas and are having our wedding in Annapolis) which doesn't do much to cut down travel waste, but Annapolis was really the one place we imagined ourselves tying the knot.

I'm trying my hardest to make sure my event doesn't put the universe out too much. Except for the part when the stars align under our wedding reception. That part I'm requiring.