So, you've decided to tie the knot in Central Park—congratulations! You're not only selecting one of the most famous locations in New York City, but you're also making a seriously cool, eco-friendly choice. Central Park is already the green heart of the city, and having your wedding there is like giving Mother Nature a big high-five.
Let's not stop there, though! Now that you're committed to making sure that your wedding is environmentally friendly, it’s time to explore what else you can do to have a fully eco-friendly wedding. Get ready because we have some amazing suggestions just for you! From invites that don’t trash the planet to decorations that leave nothing but memories, we've got you covered.
Central Park is the Ultimate Eco-Friendly Wedding Venue
First things first—let’s talk about why Central Park is basically the MVP of eco-friendly wedding venues:
- Nature’s Beauty = Less Fuss: With all of its lovely trees, shimmering lakes, and lush greenery, Central Park is already breathtaking. This implies that you don't have to use extravagant décor. All you need to do is add a few personal touches to nature, and it will do the heavy lifting for you.
- Conveniently Green: Your guests may simply take the subway, bike, or even walk to your ceremony because Central Park is located right in the midst of Manhattan. Emissions decrease when there are fewer cars on the road. Win-win!
- Support Local Ecosystems: By choosing to celebrate in this iconic park, you’re not just getting a killer backdrop—you’re also helping protect local wildlife and green spaces. And, as long as we stick to the park’s rules, we’re doing our part to keep Central Park as lovely as ever.
- Less Power, More Natural Vibes: Daytime wedding? You’ve got the sun as your spotlight! Central Park’s natural light means you won’t need a ton of electricity-sucking lights. Even if you go for a sunset ceremony, the park’s ambiance is all you need.
Fun & Easy Eco-Friendly Wedding Tips
Okay, now that you’re all set on Central Park, let's discuss how to make every aspect of your wedding day as environmentally friendly as possible. We're discussing invitations, flowers, and even what you wear. Ready for some green inspiration? Let's go!
1. Invitations: Ditch the Paper, Go Digital
Why cut down trees when you can send beautiful digital invitations? Greenvelope and Paperless Post offer designs that will make you forget about traditional paper invitations. Plus, they’re super easy to use, track RSVPs, and even add fun details like maps and song requests.
But if you’re old-fashioned at heart and love the idea of sending something physical, no worries! Opt for recycled paper or go even cooler with seed paper invites—yes, your guests can plant them after the wedding and grow wildflowers!
2. Decorations: Keep It Natural and Reusable
Let’s keep it real—Central Park doesn’t need much sprucing up. But if you want to add a little flair, here’s how to do it without adding to the landfill:
- Go Reusable: Consider reusable decorations, such as those you can rent, borrow, or DIY. Vintage lanterns, beautiful fabric banners, and wooden signs can all be reused after the big day. It's stylish, environmentally responsible, and reasonably priced!
- Nature’s Own Decor: Use what’s already in the park! Stones, leaves, and branches make for amazing centerpieces and aisle markers. And when the party’s over, just return them to where they belong.
3. Wedding Attire: Chic and Sustainable
Who says you can’t look drop-dead gorgeous and be eco-friendly at the same time? Here’s how to rock a sustainable wedding look:
- Something Old, Something Vintage: Consider wearing a vintage or secondhand dress. It is unique, sustainable, and has a story to tell. Alternatively, try the rental route—look stunning for the day and then return the dress, no closet clutter required.
- Eco-Friendly Fabrics: If you're buying new, look for dresses made from organic or sustainable materials such as bamboo, hemp, and organic cotton. You'll look fantastic, and the earth will thank you!
- Sustainable Accessories: Finish off your look with accessories and shoes that are either secondhand, sustainably made or that you’ll wear again. Brands like Debbie Carlisle and Raven + Lily make beautiful sustainable accessories.
4. Florals: Fresh, Local, and Fabulous 
Flowers are a wedding must-have, but they can also be a big source of waste. Let’s make your blooms as green as possible:
- Buy Local, Think Seasonal: Select flowers that are in season and grown locally. They'll be fresher, nicer, and have a far lower carbon footprint. Plus, they'll look great in Central Park!
- Organic and pesticide-free: Choose flowers grown without harmful pesticides. Organic flowers are not only better for the environment, but they are also safer for you and your guests to handle.
- Dried or Faux Flowers: For a lasting keepsake, use dried flowers, or even fabric blooms. They look gorgeous and won’t wilt the next day!
Many of our vendors will offer locally sourced and environmentally friendly options. Talk to us about your preferences and we’ll make it happen!
5. Transportation: Keep It Green 
Help your guests lower their carbon footprints by providing eco-friendly transportation options:
- Public Transport is Your BFF: Central Park is super accessible by subway, bus, and train. Make sure to include public transportation info on your invites or wedding website so guests can plan ahead.
- Carpool or Rideshare: For those who can’t use public transport, suggest carpooling or using rideshare apps to reduce the number of cars.
- Bike or Walk: Encourage guests who live nearby to bike or walk to your wedding. It’s good for them, and great for the planet!
The best thing about Central Park, is that all of their venues are a short walk from any of the entrances, so they’re easy to reach. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, for example, is just a short stroll from West 72nd Street.
Naturally Yours: Central Park Weddings
Your wedding day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple—fun, unique, and full of love. By choosing to make your Central Park wedding eco-friendly, you’re not only showing love to each other but also to our beautiful planet.
From digital invites to plant-based menus and beyond, every little choice adds up to make a big difference. So, go ahead and plan that amazing, green wedding. Central Park is ready to host your unforgettable day, and with these tips, you’ll make it one that’s as sustainable as it is spectacular.
Ready to make your Central Park wedding dreams a reality? Let’s chat! Book a call with us today, and we’ll help you plan the most beautiful and welcoming celebration for you and your guests. We can’t wait to bring your vision to life!