Hello Ladies (and maybe some Gentleman)!
I have an exciting blog post today that focuses on "green" wedding ideas. I'm a total permaculture supporter, in fact I already have my seedlings growing for my square foot gardens. Since I strongly believe in the principles of practicing sustainable living, I do whatever I can to support eco-friendly practices in event design.
In my household, we are discussing putting a greenhouse in our yard so that we can grow fresh herbs and veggies year round. (Not easy in our harsh Minnesota climate.) This left me with the idea of using terrariums or mini-green houses that essentially create their own ecosystems as centerpieces for guest tables! Cute and original. :)
Now, I realize that it might take a little more work to have this type of a centerpiece. You will definitely have to start in advance. Although making a terrarium centerpiece might take more time it probably will be less expensive than using flowers! I would start at least a couple months in advance of your wedding.
Here is what you will need to make a terrarium: glass containers, rocks, potting soil, and potted herbs/plants.
The first step in creating your terrarium centerpiece involves picking your container. You can use glass bubble vases from the dollar store, apothecary jars, small fish bowls or large pickle jars. There are so many possibilities!
The next step is to select your plants. I suggest using an odd number of plants with many different leaf styles to create aesthetic diversity. Mixing and matching the color of your plants is also a great way to make your terrarium interesting. Personally, I love the idea of including wonderful smelling herbs like Rosemary or Basil.
After you have your container and plants selected, line the bottom of your terrarium with rocks. Then add your soil on top until the container is about half-way full. Next put in your plants and make sure you like where they are situated before adding the rest of the soil. Secure the plants by packing down the soil and wallah, a terrarium!
It is super easy to care for your terrarium. Simply put it next to a window that receives a nice amount of sunlight and water regularly. You might even try to put interesting non-plant items in to create more interest. I like the idea of agate rocks, glass marbles, crystals or even costume jewelry.
Additionally, if you are doing terrarium centerpieces, make sure that they are no taller than your nose height if you are sitting down at a table. This makes sure that your guests sight line will be clear and they will be able to visit without distraction.
I also really love the idea of mini-terrariums as place-cards! You could fill small containers with rocks and tiny plants. Write the name of your guest on one large rock placed in the terrarium and you have a very cool place-card that can double as a favor! :)
Speaking of favors, another great "green" wedding favor is to give away trees for guests to plant on their property or at a public forest! Just like the mini-terrarium you can add guest names to them using paper tags. You can have them grouped all together or at each place setting.
I sincerely hope that I've inspired you to incorporate some eco-friendly event design into your wedding. Using natural elements given to us by mother nature is always beautiful and in style!
Happy Planning!
