Thank you for this gorgeous editorial, just in time to celebrate Earth Day, Laura Chapman, WPICC.
This beautiful Okanagan elopement was designed not only to feel intimate and romantic but it was also meant to demonstrate kindness to the natural resources that surround and inspire us every day. This wonderful team of vendors brought to life an organic and eco-conscious approach to their work, showcasing that with any budget you can be just as thoughtful towards the earth as to the design itself.
All photos by Landon Hemmes Photography
To begin the search for our design elements of this elopement, we looked directly into our own homes. Wanting to capitalize on the opportunity to upcycle some charming pieces, the picnic & cake table, bench, carpets, pillows, stools, and guitar were all brought from the home of the event planner, Laura Chapman. The stunning chairs were borrowed from her aunt. The bride’s shoes and accessories, as well as the groom’s suit, were all straight from the couple’s closet, saving on cost as well as harmful eco-impact. You, your stylish friends, and your lovely family can all pitch in to lend favourite pieces from home to style your impactful, dazzling nuptials.
If you find yourself still missing key pieces from the repertoire of your humble abode, the next best thing to do is to peruse thrift stores for some magical, hidden gems. For this photoshoot, the record player, candle holders, glassware, bouquet wrap, and other decor pieces were purchased second-hand. Previously loved does not mean any less sublime; everything was still carefully handpicked to complement the breathtaking Okanagan backdrop and style of the beautiful couple.
Many of the talented vendors involved in this project feel strongly about how their work affects the environment, right down to our cake makers! We have compiled some direct insights for you to hold onto while you vendor-search for your eco-friendly wedding:
Gratify dessert shop in Penticton, who supplied the delicious vegan London Fog cheesecake, says, “By opting for food choices that do not include industrialized agriculture, we have an opportunity to cause significantly less harm on our planet. Plant-based alternatives are plentiful, and we and our customers believe they are just as satisfying, if not more.” And we must admit we agree, as we sit here drooling while dreaming of their desserts.
You can see why it can be beneficial to order from small businesses after you hear from the wonderful company that created our custom soy swirl candles: “Sunday Skies Studio is a female-owned business run by two besties from Ottawa. We strive to create quality pieces with our planet in mind. Our made-to-order process means we don’t make any more than we need to, aka no waste! Our candles are hand-poured, 100% natural soy wax, non-toxic, and (we think) are way too cute to burn!” Trust me, we think so too!
Lizzii Burnett, our talented makeup artist had this to say when asked about her process leading up to the photoshoot, “ I like to reach for products that are clean, cruelty-free and vegan whenever available! The beauty goal for this elopement was to have fresh bronzed and glowing skin with a focus on her eyes. This is a great style for anyone getting married in the Okanagan sun! Some of the clean/vegan brands I reached for Ashley were Tatcha, KVD Vegan Beauty and Bareminerals!”
Still don’t see an option that works for you? These are great resources to check out that will directly help to offset the carbon footprint of your event: Terrapass, Native Energy or Climate Care.
Since we could go on for days about the little or big things you can do to make an impact, we will leave you now with one key takeaway from this photoshoot: Together with your family, friends, wedding planner and vendors, you can create something spectacular while limiting waste and escalating the significance behind each decision you make. Regardless of what you do, remember that the most important thing is that you are getting your dream wedding and you feel great about it!
Congratulations and happy planning!!!
Wedding Team:
Design & Planning by Laura Chapman Events
Photography by Landon Hemmes Photography
Makeup by Lizzii Burnett
Hair by Diandra Paige
Custom Soy Candles by Sunday Skies Studio
Cake by Gratify
Model: Ashley Duncan, coach & personal trainer at Beach City Crossfit
Cactus keychain favours by SMAC Home Designs
Dress by Lulu’s
Dried florals by A Floral
Dried Pampas Grass from Garden Works Canada
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