How to have zero waste elopement in Iceland
10 tips to have zero waste elopement in Iceland.
I really want to elope in Iceland, but I do care about the environment a lot. Is it possible to do? Yes, it is! It does require pre-planning and it all starts with a choice when you decide to have a zero waste elopement day in Iceland.
First of all, what is a zero-waste elopement? A zero-waste elopement is a type of elopement that focuses on minimizing waste and environmental impact while celebrating the union of a couple. It is a more intimate and intentional approach to getting married that prioritizes sustainability, conscious consumption, and a smaller ecological footprint.
Sounds like something you would love to have on your elopement day? With these 10 tips, you will get to learn how to have zero waste elopement.
Practise Leave No Trace.
If you want to get started on planning a zero-waste elopement, it’s good to start by learning about Leave No Trace. The Leave No Trace is about reimagining how we practise outdoors and how we can take care of nature and the places we do visit. It’s about visiting locations on your elopement day, taking pictures there and leaving the place without leaving any trace or destroying nature.
The 7 Leave No Trace principles are the following ones:
Plan ahead and prepare. Know the regulations and special concerns of areas you will be visiting. Prepare for weather, hazards and emergencies. Schedule your trips to avoid high use of the area.
Camp and travel on durable surfaces. The goal of travelling outdoors is to move through natural areas while avoiding damage to the land. After travelling to the area we can have a significant effect on where we decide to camp at. In Iceland, you are only allowed to camp at the campsites or stay the night at mountain huts.
Dispose of waste properly. Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect the area you have been to for trash or spilt food if you have enjoyed a picnic there. Bury toilet paper deep in a cathole or pack the toilet paper out along with hygiene products.
Leave what you find. Leave rocks, plants and others that you have found where they belong at.
Minimize campfire impacts. Campfires are illegal in Iceland.
Respect wildlife. Respect also farmers’ sheep and horses and not feed them your snacks.
Be considerate to others. Respect others and their experience in Iceland. Avoid loud noices.
Learn more about Leave No Trace at their official website.
2. Hire eco-friendly vendors
Hire vendors for your elopement that share the same values as you do and use eco-friendly and cruelty-free products with hair and makeup. Or a tour company that worked towards leaving minimal impact on Iceland’s nature. Businesses have a significant impact on the environment. By hiring eco-friendly vendors, you contribute to a larger movement toward sustainability. By choosing vendors that prioritize eco-friendly practices, you contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation, helping to mitigate the negative effects of climate change.
3. Do your elopement day makeup yourself.
If you already have products you know you can use well on your elopement day, use them and practise to do the makeup for your day yourself or have a friend help you to practise.
When you do your own makeup, you have more control over the amount of product you use. This can help you avoid excessive product consumption and reduce the overall demand for makeup products, which often come in non-recyclable packaging and minimize packaging waste. Many makeup application tools, such as disposable makeup wipes and single-use applicators, contribute to single-use plastic waste. By doing your own makeup, you can use reusable tools like brushes and cloth wipes, helping to reduce your environmental footprint.
4. Buy a used wedding dress and suit or rent one for your elopement.
Does it need to be a new one? What if you could give an old wedding dress or a suit a new meaning? You can also sell or donate your wedding dress and suit after your day.
The fashion industry is known for its environmental footprint, with new clothing production contributing to resource consumption, pollution, and waste. Buying a used wedding dress reduces demand for new production and helps reduce the overall environmental impact.
And don’t forget; many used wedding dresses are of exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Used wedding dress retailers are small businesses or individuals selling their dresses. Your purchase can support local or independent sellers, contributing to the growth of sustainable and community-based economies.
5. Use hiking boots as your wedding shoes
Or another type of shoes you know you will be using after your elopement day. Hiking boots are good to use in Iceland’s nature and you will minimize the risk of having a sprained ankle.
Hiking boots are designed for optimal comfort and support during long walks and outdoor activities. Choosing hiking boots for your wedding day ensures that you'll be comfortable throughout the ceremony and any outdoor photo sessions.
6. Use or rent decor from wedding flea markets on Facebook.
There are many wedding and elopement Facebook groups where you can buy used decor for your day if it’s something that you need. Before incorporating flea market decor into your wedding, it's important to plan ahead, have a clear vision of your desired aesthetic, and be prepared to clean, restore, or repurpose items as needed.
By using or renting decor from flea markets, you are contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly wedding. Reusing and repurposing items reduces the demand for new production and helps minimize waste.
7. Flowers
If you choose to have flowers on your elopement day, choose to have the ones that are in the season. Many couples eloping in Iceland also choose not to have flowers.
Request minimal or plastic-free packaging from your florist. Avoid unnecessary plastic wrapping or non-recyclable materials. Communicate your zero waste preferences and ask about their sustainability practices.
8. Transportation
If your having guests travelling to your Iceland elopement, share the car rides together. If you travelling just with your elopement photographer, ask if you all can travel in the same car on your day.
9. Reducing food waste.
Food waste is a huge problem and the more people being part of your elopement day, the more food waste there can be. Having a food buffet for your elopement leads to food waste. One option is to choose a restaurant and have everyone order their own meal based on how hungry they are at the moment. And if your guests are up to it, order a vegetarian or plant-based menu.
10. Go paperless with invitations.
If you're having guests for your elopement day, skip the paper versions with invitations and send them virtual invitations.
11. Choosing a sustainable location
Consider Remote Locations: Opting for more remote and less frequented areas not only provides a unique and intimate experience but also reduces the impact on heavily visited tourist spots. This choice allows you to enjoy the beauty of Iceland while preserving its delicate ecosystems.
Connect with Local Experts: Reach out to local photographers or experts who specialize in eco-friendly elopements. They can provide valuable insights into lesser-known, sustainable locations and help you navigate the logistics of planning an environmentally conscious celebration.
Choose a Seasonally Appropriate Location: Consider the environmental impact of your elopement based on the season. Choosing a location that aligns with the natural cycles of Iceland, such as blooming meadows in summer or snow-covered landscapes in winter, ensures that your celebration harmonizes with the environment.
12. Zero-waste catering and celebration
Sustainable Menu Choices: When planning your elopement catering, consider sourcing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. Opt for a menu that minimizes food waste by working closely with your caterer to determine appropriate portion sizes. Additionally, explore plant-based or vegetarian options to further reduce your ecological footprint.
Ditch Single-Use Plastics: Say goodbye to single-use plastics by choosing eco-friendly alternatives. Consider using reusable dinnerware, utensils, and glassware. If your elopement is outdoors, bring along reusable picnic sets or biodegradable plates and utensils to ensure that your celebration is not contributing to the proliferation of disposable plastics.
Compost and Recycling Stations: Set up designated compost and recycling stations to make waste disposal easy and eco-friendly. Clearly communicate the importance of disposing of items responsibly to your guests, encouraging them to separate waste accordingly.
Mindful Celebration Practices: Embrace the "Leave No Trace" philosophy by being mindful of your surroundings. Whether you're eloping in a forest, on a beach, or in a quaint town, make sure that your celebration has minimal impact on the environment. Collect any decorations or items you brought with you and dispose of waste responsibly.
Collaborate with Sustainable Vendors: Discuss your zero-waste goals with them, and you'll likely find that many vendors are eager to contribute to a celebration that aligns with their values.
13. Minimizing single-use plastics and disposables
Bring Your Own Reusable Cups and Water Bottles: Bring reusable water bottles to your elopement day. If providing beverages, use large dispensers or pitchers rather than individual plastic bottles.
Say No to Balloons and Confetti: While balloons and confetti may seem festive, they contribute significantly to environmental harm. Choose alternative decorations like fabric bunting, paper streamers, or eco-friendly rice confetti. These options add charm without leaving behind non-biodegradable waste.
