Are you worried about the environment? Have you been wondering how to make your wedding more “green” and environmentally friendly?

Here’s ten practical tips for a green wedding from Hornblower Cruises & Events.

• Get Outdoors: Capitalize on natural beauty and cut decorating costs by choosing a venue with a view. Get married in a park, at the local botanical gardens or on the top deck of a yacht at sunset
• Two-in-one Venue: Opt for a site that accommodates both your ceremony and reception. When that’s not possible, consider walkable options or seek out a green shuttle service.
• Choose Green-Friendly Venues: For example, Hornblower vessels feature ENERGY STAR® appliances, energy efficient hand dryers and light bulbs, and green cleaning products. Some of the company’s cruise packages also include carbon-offset credits.
• Go Paperless: Send save-the-date notices, shower invitations and registry information by email.
• Use Recycled Paper: When mailing printed invitations, choose recycled or post-consumer paper and soy-based ink.
• Use Local farmers: For receptions and dinners, source organic fare from area farmers and growers.
• Reusable, Green Wedding Decorations: Adorn your wedding venue with reusable linens and soy candle centerpieces.
• Replantable Wedding Flowers: Select seasonal flowers available locally at the time of your wedding. Better yet, decorate with orchids, potted daisies or other flowering plants that can be enjoyed long after the ceremony.
• Eco-Friendly Party Favors: Purchase sustainable, eco-friendly “thank you” gifts. For a long-lasting party favor, send guests home with a packet of seeds or a potted plant centerpiece.
• Recycle Reception Trash: After the reception, recycle bottles, cans and plastic containers. Avoid plastic utensils and serving ware. If you must use disposable products, choose recycled or biodegradable alternatives.
• Think alternative Honeymoons: Honeymoon at an eco-resort or sign up to clear trails, teach children or build homes on a volunteer vacation.

About Hornblower Cruises & Events:
With more than 32 yachts in 6 California cities, (Berkeley, San Francisco, Marina del Rey, Long Beach, Newport Beach and San Diego) Hornblower Cruises & Events services include: welcome shower, rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception groups from 2 to 2,200. To learn more, visit www.hornblowerweddings.com .

Shop for Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors: Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors from Beau-coup.