The Little Paper Shop is just that, a small business that deals in paper – a drop in the ocean in the world of global warming and rising sea levels.
We’ve always been conscious to do our part in not contributing to planetary annihilation (not meaning to sound dramatic) – we reuse our suppliers packaging to pack our own orders, we make sure that all of the paper we print on is Recyclable, FSC certified, Sustainably sourced, Chlorine-free; the inks used by our printers are plant based; and even our more luxurious upgrades don’t change the fact that it is all recyclable (though who would want to throw a gorgeous invite away anyway, right?)
This weekend, January 14th-15th, we are at the stunning Iscoyd Park in Whitchurch, Shropshire. And the theme of the open weekend? Sustainability and conscious weddings.
This got us all thinking; we might know what we do to keep our carbon footprint low – but does our lovely customer base? And also, could we share a bit of that knowledge to help couples make more sustainable decisions when it comes to their wedding stationery. In a survey by The Sustainable Wedding Alliance, 89% of those surveyed already said that they had become more environmentally conscious in the previous 12 months.
We have therefore compiled this list of our top 5 sustainable changes that you can make to your big day to help you do your part;
1. SHOP LOCAL
This is something that has been pushed a lot lately in terms of supporting your highstreet, allowing small businesses to grow etc. However here we’re talking about the distance your wedding is needing to travel. If your florist is driving 100 miles to deliver, your band is based on the other side of the country and your dress is being shipped overseas – this very quickly becomes a lot of resources and fuel for one wedding. Now imagine everyone did this! Obviously we’re not saying that if your dream wedding singer is a million miles away that you shouldn’t have them for your big day! But maybe having a chat with your local florist or wedding designer might just save a few of the air-miles along the way.
2. UPCYCLE
We’ve all heard of something borrowed, but we are really taking it to the next level. One of our most asked about table plans features an upcycled ladder with minimal printing – and we think you’ll agree that the impact is stunning. By bringing in a couple of reused items like this, not only are you cutting down on how much is physically produced for your wedding, you’re also making something completely unique to you as a couple. And it’s going to look fabulous in those wedding photos!
3. CHALLENGE YOUR SUPPLIERS
Okay maybe don’t come in all guns blazing at us please, but certainly don’t be afraid to ask and check that your suppliers are living up to your eco-standards. They will be able to point out their baseline eco-creds but also will be able to work with you to find the most conscious option for your day. Sustainability is becoming such a huge conversation, particularly in an industry as gigantic as weddings – so don’t be afraid to lay down your expectations. We can let you know each of our stocks eco-credentials and even talk you through our processes to find the best options.
4. CONSIDER WHAT WILL BE LEFT BEHIND
There are so many aspects to your big day, the flowers, centerpieces, favors even down to the tiny confetti. By considering what you’re going to be leaving behind after your day, you can not only cut down on waste, but probably cost as well. Iscoyd Park, for example, provides all the crockery and tableware, so no need for throwaways. They, like many other venues today, also have taken a stand against confetti that isn’t biodegradable or natural. You might also consider having plantable donation cards as guest favors, leaving those attending with some lovely flowers to watch grow but also providing money to those in need. And hey, if that wasn’t enough to convince you, think about how little tidying up you’ll have to do if there’s nothing left at the end!
Seeded paper name tags by The Little Paper Shop
5. MAKE YOUR DAY ABOUT YOU
Your wedding day might be the single most important and exciting day of your life (so far!), and it should be about so much more than the ‘stuff’ you bring with you. At the end of the day, your big day is about you as a couple (cliché we know), and it should reflect that. Put yourselves center stage and focus on your love. That way, naturally, you’ll keep your purchases to a minimum and enjoy it being about you – the way it’s meant to be.
Photo credit © Emily Robinson Photography
Want to find out more? Please contact us for more information.
Emma – Senior Designer @ TLPS
With Love and Paper x
