Below are some simple ways for couples to consider in holding an environmentally friendlier wedding. Incorporating some of these green tips can make go a long way for our earth.

1. Invitation: Go paperless and use e-mail invitations, or use recycled paper.

2. Stationery: For menus and place cards, print limited copies using recycled paper or reusable materials such as chalk boards.

3. Attire: Rent the gowns and suits. Chose gowns made from recycled materials.

4. Venue: Use a non-air-conditioned venue such as the Garden of Seasons at HortPark. There are also six other parks here where you can hold outdoor weddings. These are: Bedok Reservoir Park, East Coast Park, Fort Canning Park, Labrador Nature Reserve, Pasir Ris Park and Sengkang Riverside Park. Couples can also tie the knot at the Singapore Garden Festival in July next year at Suntec City.

5. Transportation: Rent a bus to ferry your guests about during the day, or encourage them to carpool. For your own bridal vehicle, use a hybrid car.

6. Decorations and bridal bouquet: Use potted plants instead of cut flowers. You can also get your florist to wrap a small potted plant for your bridal bouquet.

7. Catering set-up: Use biodegradable ware or other environmentally friendly alternatives such as banana leaves or china.

8. Wedding favours: Give out wedding favours made of eco-friendly or recycled materials.

Source- "8 ways to love the Earth" by The Straits Times on 7 December 2009