Our first of a series of city guides focuses on the big (green) apple -- New York. From regional artisans to earth-friendly products and services, we've highlighted our favorite local sources for eco-chic weddings and parties. For a complete list of eco-chic venues available for rent, check out our recently updated Green Wedding Guide ™.
Eco Invitations
Modern brides, be sure to check out our newest find, Objet de Carte (designer Robert Brownstein's butterfly image is pictured left). These eye-catching images are printed on 100% recycled card stock. For thank you cards and eco-friendly gift wrap check out Sarah Marie Designs, a New York-based letterpress studio featuring tree-free stationary printed with soy inks. We also dig the recycled paper products made by Seltzer.
Organic Bridal Gowns
There's more than one way to green your wedding attire. Thrifty brides will want to opt for a rental company or a pre-worn gown. The Fancy Wedding Center in Brooklyn rents both gowns and tuxedos. The Bridal Garden is our New York pick for pre-worn couture gowns -- proceeds benefit the Sheltering Arm Children's Services. You can also save by re-using a dress a friend or family member has doned; Jane Wilson-Marquis will alter your dress, adding sleeves, a train or a jacket to completely transform your family heirloom into a look all your own.
If the thought of a used dress makes you cringe, consider the local eco-label and celebrity-favorite AngelRox; designer Roxi Sugar recently debuted a green bridal line. Traditional brides will love the simple lines of MinnaK's silk gowns (available at Kleinfeld's). Local designer Minna donates 5% of proceeds to Oxfam America.
Recycled Wedding Bands
Order the ring of your dreams at New York Wedding Ring. This small, artisan studio creates custom bands using recycled gold and responsible gemstones. The shop also offers Wedding Ring Workshops, where couples can create their own rings. We're also smitten with Sarah Perlis, who creates hand-hammered rings in her New York studio using recycled metals.
Natural Make-Up & Hair
Aveda's It-Girl Andrea Harrison is the girl to call for fresh, natural looking make-up. In addition to working on the Aveda Show Team, Andrea is a regular behind the scenes at New York City Fashion Week and has been a guest on national television shows, including Good Morning America. Applications start at $150. Need to boost that color? Or looking for a sweeping up-do? Look no further than the non-toxic, fume-free Grace Heaven Organic Salon. Haircuts start at $90.
Sustainable Decor
It's no secret, we're infatuated with Nettleton Hollow, a Brooklyn-based shop. For dried grasses, branches, flowers and pods, Nettleton Hollow is a one-stop-shop for sustainable (and re-usable) decorations and props. For regional, seasonal flowers and plants, visit your local Greenmarket -- there are over 50 locations in the city.
Organic Food and Drink
Support restaurants and caterers that use local, seasonal (and when possible) organic and heirloom ingredients. The site NY Farms makes it easy to search city restaurants with an index that is updated by volunteers (read: these are not paid endorsements). We recommend The Cleaver Company for organic and vegan menus and impeccable service. Owner and chef Mary Cleaver is a twenty-year veteran of the industry, being one of the first to spearhead the sustainable foods movement. Looking to add a sweet treat by each of your guests place settings? We love the organic and vegan chocolate offerings by NY-based Vere.
Location, Location, Location
The city is teeming with green venue options, from historic buildings to public parks. For a complete list of eco-chic spaces, search our Green Wedding Guide™.
Green Transportation
Looking for a unique wedding getaway? OzoCar is an eco-luxury car service -- and New York's taxi service is going green, making it a funky, eco option, but the only carbon-neutral option is pedal-power! Manhattan Rickshaws are 100% eco-friendly -- customize your ride with a special message.
Green Registries
We spend nearly one-third of our lives in bed. Getting a good (non-toxic) night's sleep is essential. We recommend ABC Home for the city's largest inventory of organic and natural bedding, including Fischcer Henney Naturals, Anna Sova, ABC's private label and more. If you need new dishes, look no further than Bodanna which sells handmade pottery made in New York. Sales of handmade goods benefit at-risk kids. Consider donating to your favorite New York charity, like Riverkeeper's or New York Restoration Project by creating a charitable registry with I Do Foundation or JustGive.org.
