I will say, after the publication of my book Simply Green Parties, if there was one question I get all the time from brides is this: What should I do for my centerpiece?    Here’s the surprising answer: Going green with your centerpieces isn’t just better for the environment, it can save you money, too.

First, I am a fan of an online company called Organic Bouquet(organicbouquet.com), which sells certified organic roses and exotic flowers, all grown without chemical pesticides and insecticides. Did you know that most traditional roses are bred for durability to the point where they’ve actually lost their scent? Florists will often spray them with perfume to replicate the fragrance. Organic roses are naturally fragrant and, because they are free of chemical pesticides, they’re also edible. You can safely use them to decorate cakes or cupcakes, sprinkle on salads, or to make rose-scented sugar (just toss a few petals into a bowl of sugar). Or save your organic roses and make potpourri; fill cellophane bags with the mixture and send them to guests with your thank-you notes after the wedding.

Another option is to ask your florist to only use flowers that are certified sustainable by the Rainforest Alliance.  The Rainforest Alliance Certified mark only appears on flowers that were grown in such a manner that protect native forests, waterways and soil and that they provide healthcare, education, fair wages and safe working conditions for workers.  You can learn more at

Finally, many centerpieces are accentuated by the romantic and subtle glow of votive candles.   It’s easier than ever before to find beeswax and soy-based candles in all shapes in sizes.  Not only will they burn with significantly less soot and smoke, but they burn more slowly than paraffin-based candles.  Slower burning candles means a longer, beautiful glow all night long.

Tags: Flowers, Rainforest Alliance, Weddings

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