One of the most efficient paths to planning a sustainable wedding is to choose a venue that prioritizes sustainable practices. For example, the Virginia Aquarium is a Virginia Green Travel partner which means all events we host ensure to avoid waste as much as possible. This includes restrictions on balloons, glitter, and single-use plastics in your décor.
Venues like ours also supply additional activities or entertainment for guests without additional waste. Your family and friends can wander through the exhibits throughout the event.
Ask your caterer about reusable or sustainable place settings, as well as environmentally conscious menu items. The Virginia Aquarium has an exclusive caterer who offers reusable dinnerware, and only compostable items when disposable plates and cutlery are ordered. Not only does the reusable dinnerware upscale the look of your event, but it’s sustainable. When working with a caterer on food, make sure the seafood is sustainably sourced. The Virginia Aquarium’s exclusive caterer sources their seafood from Virginia farmers, and composts any leftover food they can through our compost partners at NOPE Compost Co. after an event ends. Your seafood will taste better, be local, and provide an additional layer of sustainability to your wedding.