Donate—Don’t Trash—Décor

Forget tossing all the leftover décor. There are plenty of ways to reuse, recycle, or donate goods after environmentally friendly weddings. Flowers are a big one. There are research organizations that will pick up your arrangements and donate them to local hospitals, senior centers, and homeless shelters. You can also gift extras to your venue’s service staff, family, or guests so they don’t go to waste.

For decorations, such as mirrors, signage, and lanterns, there are options too. Consider using items you already own or pieces you’d want to incorporate into your home after the wedding. If something really isn’t a fit, drop it off at a local thrift store, such as Goodwill or Housing Works. Donations are tax-deductible, which will come in handy next April 15th, and you’ll sleep well knowing that someone less fortunate can give it a second life.