Event flowers represent a significant area where people can make more environmentally conscious decisions. Many of the flowers sold by florists and suppliers have been imported from developing countries where pesticide use is very high and wages are very low.

Unfortunately, pesticide regulations are not as stringent overseas as they are in the United States. As a result, many imported cut flowers have been sprayed with toxic chemicals to keep them cosmetically perfect. These chemicals are not only toxic to us, they cause great damage to the environment. It is also disconcerting to consider the resulting health problems experienced by the people, mostly women, who cultivate these flowers and are exposed to much higher quantities of these chemicals.

Here are some suggestions for a greener approach to the flowers you use at your next event:

• if possible, use only organically flowers, locally grown
• use potted plants for centerpieces, these can be replanted , use other organic decor (produce, pine cones, fall leaves etc..)
• recycle flowers by moving ceremony flowers to reception
• after the wedding donate flowers to a local hospital or nursing home