By Mitchell Altholz, Executive Chef, The Manor and Highlawn Pavilion
Floral arrangements are one of the most important decorative elements in any wedding ceremony. And they can also be one of the most expensive. But you don’t have to spend a fortune – or even much of anything – for unforgettable floral arrangements. In fact, you can create them yourself. Unprotected wildflowers, herbs from your parents’ garden, or even store bought fruits and vegetables can be cheaper and “greener” than extravagant floral arrangements – and just as beautiful. Centerpieces created with wildflowers or home garden vegetables like pumpkins or squash (especially in the Fall) are a great green option you might consider. And how about that boutonniere for the groom? It doesn’t have to be store bought. A boutonniere made from home grown herbs works perfectly.
Cheers!
Mitchell
By Christopher Gellings, Banquet Manager, Highlawn Pavilion
Here at the Knowles restaurants in the New Jersey, New York metro area, we’re seeing more interest in all things “eco friendly” and “green” when it comes to wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions these days. These “green” trends range from choosing wedding and reception locations that minimize travel for guests, to selecting invitations made from recycled paper. Now we’re also seeing the green trend in the wedding favors the bride and groom bestow upon guests.
If you’re interested in giving guests an eco-type gift, here are a couple of recent examples from ceremonies hosted at the Highlawn Pavilion . One couple gave their guests potted saplings. We’ve seen other couples make charitable donations in their guests’ names to organizations from Greenpeace to the Environmental Defense Fund. You could also dispense with favors altogether and explain it’s part of your effort to minimize the footprint of your wedding celebration, and save yourself some green in the bargain. The things you can do to inject a green element into your wedding are almost limitless. However, we would draw the line at choosing recycled burlap for your wedding gown!
Thanks!
Christopher
