Villadom Times Weekly Newpaper Online-January 26, 2011 Issue

WEDDING Planner 2011 footprint of a wedding can be reduced simply by scaling back and avoiding over-consumption. Here are some ideas to think about. Reduce travel. Research indicates that more than twothirds of emissions in the U.S. are produced by energy consumption and transportation. By reducing guests’ need to travel far for a wedding or offering transportation that can accommodate several people at once (like a bus), carbon emissions will be reduced. Home is where the heart is. Keeping weddings close to home is helpful. Those with big backyards or a park nearby can host the event at home or in a nearby park and reduce dependence on large reception halls that use up large amounts of energy to operate. A home wedding also gives couples the opportunity to shop around for locally produced, organic foods. Shop for floral alternatives. Flowers would seem “green” in themselves. However, many blooms available at florist shops are grown in hothouses with the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, something that is not very good for the environment. Brides opting for something more eco-conscious could consider alternative options, such as bouquets made of sustainable succulent plants and centerpieces full of organic fruits and wildflowers. Choose an open registry. Instead of fine china that may never be used, many couples are opting for open registries that enable guests to give everything from eco-friendly housewares to charitable donations to cash for down payments on a home. Opt for mixed seating arrangements: Instead of formal escort cards indicating firm seating arrangements, cou- January 26, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES I & II • Page 11 Friendly ideas for hosting a ‘green’ wedding ples are saving paper by allowing guests to choose their own seats from mix-matched options, such as long, communal benches, and comfortable sofas. Go with something old. Recycled gowns and gently used items are good alternatives for eco-conscious brides. Many websites will match up brides with others looking to swap items at low or no cost. Go small scale. Instead of inviting every last cousin and distant uncle, couples are opting for more intimate affairs, including only the people they are closest to, which saves on cost and helps the environment. Trim some of the wedding day fat. Some couples opt for an all-you-can-eat buffet and a subsequent dessert bar later in the evening. Stuffed guests may end up wasting food. Instead of all-you-can-eat, go for a more traditional meal. Choose a charitable party favor. Instead of a party favor that collects dust on a shelf, couples are choosing to gift with organic products or a donation to a charitable organization in the guests’ names. �� Environmentally friendly ideals are now permeating all aspects of daily living. Many people want to take the concept further and ensure their nuptials and reception are good for the planet. Although there are no firm statistics on the number of green weddings being held each year, emerging trends point to the growing interest in eco-conscious weddings. Individuals who already do their best to recycle, reuse, and reduce want to employ those same values on their wedding day. There are many ways to employ a green mindset to wedding planning and execution. Largely, the carbon 201-819-6014 �� With your complete booking. Call Do�e for free consulta�on. Personal Styling with a Personal Touch • Bridal Packages • Wardrobe Editing • Men’s Styling • Personal Shopping • Event Styling Katelyn Nejmeh �� katelyn@stylebykatelyn.com www.stylebykatelyn.com �� Catering to people with a passion for food. Take Away Gourmet, Bergen County’s premier off-premise catering company, is pleased to announce its exclusive catering relationship with the Hermitage Museum on Franklin Turnpike in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ. Adjacent to this Gothic Revival Landmark House, on five acres of park-like property, is Jaqua Hall which accommodates 150 guests. The museum’s outdoor terrace, patio and lawns are also available for events April through September. 265 Godwin Ave, Wyckoff www.wyckoffﬂorist.com 1.866.PINK (7465) 201-891-0232 �� “When you hold your event at the historic Hermitage, you step back in time to the charm and graciousness of a bygone era.” Take Away Gourmet’s co-founders Chuck and Laura Adams, bring to your event their undying passion for food, their innovative presentation skills and their exacting attention to detail. The results are spectacular. We’re more than chocolate! Visit Our In-Store Bridal Showcase to order your Chocolate Etc... WEDDING & BRIDAL SHOWER FAVORS �� Chocolate Covered Caramel Apples, Roses, Hearts and Filled Candy Boxes and more.... Sugar-Free Chocolate Available Personalized Printed Boxes, Ribbons, Napkins and Personalized Candy Bar Wrappers. Decorative Fabric Trufﬂe Boxes. And more... �� 26 W. Prospect St, Waldwick, NJ 07463 P 201-612-1111 • F 201-612-1113 382 MAIN STREET, WYCKOFF • 201-891-3711 chocolateetc.com • Monday - Saturday 10-5 takeawaygourmet.com