Leave No Trace Weddings: Understanding the Environmental Impact of Destination Weddings and Elopements

Leave No Trace Weddings: Understanding the Environmental Impact of Destination Weddings and Elopements

Destination weddings and elopements are becoming a more popular choice among discerning couples looking to curate a truly authentic, singular event. With the flexibility to blend intimate gatherings and humbling landscapes with cultural infusion, it’s no wonder why we’re seeing a vested interest from those exploring this approach. While couples have more freedom than ever to celebrate in the ways that are aligned with them, it’s paramount to understand the potential impacts of these events on the environment. Leave No Trace weddings and elopements consider the fragility and the consequential significance of hosting celebrations in both remote, and well-traveled areas.

For couples who care deeply about the environment, planning a Leave No Trace (LNT) wedding or elopement offers an eco-conscious alternative to celebrate. Couples can still have the wedding experience of their dreams, while still respecting the lands they love. By following Leave No Trace principles, couples can minimize their environmental footprint. This ensures that these widely cherished places remain pristine for future generations to enjoy. Here, we’ll dive into the specific considerations for destination weddings and elopements, as well as exploring practical steps to plan a wedding or elopement that honors the planet.

What is Leave No Trace?

LNT is a non-profit organization that encourages people to enjoy the planet in a more sustainable fashion. Their goal is to use science-based education tools and resources to show others how to reduce their impact in every kind of outdoors environment. The heart of their mission lies within the seven key principles of their conservation-driven goals. All of these things can be applied to weddings and elopements that take place in outdoor spaces, and should be met with serious consideration. For additional information on the LNT organization, feel free to visit lnt.org.

LNT Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife 
7. Be Considerate of Others

Recognizing Ecological Impacts

Travel Emissions:

One of the most significant factors that add to the carbon footprint of a destination wedding or elopement is travel. Whether by air or car, travel emissions for both the couple and their guests can stack up quickly. International flights in particular generate high levels of CO2, but even domestic travel can have a noticeable impact. Means of travel are one of the most difficult contributors to control, and oftentimes we can’t. However, we can remain mindful of its impact in order to make more considerate decisions elsewhere.

Impact on Natural Sites:

Leave No Trace weddings usually occur in natural locations, such as beaches, forests, and mountain trails – all of which are their own delicate ecosystems. Increased foot traffic in these areas can lead to irreversible harm to plant life, wildlife, and can even lead to severe soil erosion. Popular wedding and elopement spots, such as national parks, have seen a rise in visitors. This exerts added pressure on these protected environments, which means even the smallest action, (like stepping off a trail or pathway), can disrupt ecosystems that are already slow to recover.

Waste Generation:

Outdoor destination weddings and elopements can come with their own set of challenges regarding waste management. From disposable tableware to other single-use items, waste left behind can be difficult to clean up in secluded settings. In many cases, these sites lack adequate waste facilities. This means that trash is often left behind or improperly disposed of, further damaging the surrounding environment.

Fact: According to estimates from multiple sources, as of 2024, the average wedding produces around 400 pounds of waste and 63 tons of CO2. For couples who are opting for a destination wedding, these numbers can be even higher due to travel and limited local waste management options. Don’t let these numbers scare you! In fact, let them do the opposite. Feel inspired to design a beautiful celebration in collaboration with LNT guidelines, without compromising on aesthetic or quality. With the right team, and access to the right resources, anything is possible, (including lowering those waste numbers)!

Specific Principles of Leave No Trace Weddings and Elopements

The Leave No Trace principles provide a practical framework for couples planning a sustainable wedding or elopement in, or around, nature. Here’s how each principle can guide a low-impact celebration:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare

Research is essential for a Leave No Trace wedding. Planning ahead means familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations of the area you plan to visit. This also means preparing for different weather types, remaining in small groups to minimize damage to the land, and avoiding times of high volume visitation when able. Verify that your desired location does allow weddings/elopements, and obtain any necessary permits. Working with vendors familiar with LNT principles is invaluable. They can advise on everything from waste management to eco-friendly detail and decor options.

2. Travel Responsibly

When planning travel, look for ways to offset emissions, such as carbon offset programs. Additionally, limiting the guest list reduces the overall environmental impact. Consider providing group transportation options to minimize individual car usage, which reduces traffic and emissions. If you’re planning an elopement that will involve some kind of hiking or camping, stick to already established trails when you can. If you can’t, disperse accordingly to avoid creating a new and unnecessary trail. You always want to avoid damaging land and waterways. Keep campsites small, and where there is little to no vegetation.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

Anticipate what kind of waste you’ll need to dispose of, and prepare to dispose of it correctly. All waste, including compostable items, should be packed out of the site. This principle is essential for remote locations where waste removal services may not be available. Consider bringing reusable or biodegradable options to minimize waste. Make sure any leftover items are removed when the event is over. Whatever you bring into the environment with you should be leaving with you as well.

4. Respect Wildlife and Flora

Natural locations are often home to diverse wildlife and plant life. Avoid approaching animals or disturbing plants. In sensitive areas, even well-meaning gestures like picking flowers can disrupt ecosystems, so it’s best to leave them untouched. To keep wildlife encounters safe for both humans and animals, always keep distance from the animal(s) during observation, and never feed them. If you choose to enjoy the wilderness with your pet, make sure you are always in total control of them as well.

5. Leave What You Find

Many couples are drawn to collecting mementos from their wedding sites. However, LNT principles encourage leaving natural items like rocks, plants, or shells as they are, allowing future visitors to enjoy the same beauty you found. Objects like rocks and plants play a major role in sustaining an ecosystem, while preserving the history and stories from that particular area. Leaving them undisturbed is crucial to keep a balanced and functional ecosystem structure.

6. Be Mindful of Fires

Fire features, like bonfires or candles, can add ambiance to an outdoor wedding but come with significant risks. Follow local regulations regarding open flames, especially in areas prone to wildfires. Opt for LED candles or other alternatives when possible. In order to prevent wildfires and other harm caused from overuse of campfires, keeping them small and manageable is important. When on a trail, always use a pre-existing fire pit when available to you. Use lightweight cookware, and extinguish fires completely after every use.

Sustainable Practices for Weddings and Elopements

Beyond following LNT guidelines, couples can further reduce their impact through a mindful planning approach. Here’s a collective list of other ways you can intentionally build an eco-friendly wedding or elopement experience:

• Instead of purchasing your decor, find a reputable company or prop house to rent from. This not only has the potential to offset costs for a larger wedding, but it also cuts back on single-use items. Renting decor means that the items will be able to be reused for future events if their condition is well-maintained and cared for. If you’re after a more vintage look, thrift stores and second-hand shops are wonderful avenues to pursue eclectic pieces and keepsakes.

• To avoid causing harm or disruption to an outdoor area, opt for native plants/florals in the region to incorporate into your wedding or elopement design. Working with a local florist is ideal for this task. They are often one of the best wedding sources of information regarding native plant species. Introducing a non-native plant to indigenous flora and fauna can have adverse effects. Additionally, choosing seasonal flowers can reduce long distance delivery-related emissions, while supporting local flower farmers/suppliers in the area. Another alternative for Leave No Trace weddings is to use potted plants that can be repurposed or planted afterward. 

• Food products are one of the largest contributors to wedding waste. Working with caterers that offer farm-to-table experiences, or source their ingredients directly from local farmers are an ideal choice. These days, couples also have the option of donating leftovers to local food programs. Some companies also offer a composting solution at a reasonable price. Both of these kinds of programs and companies offer wedding consultations, and will usually accommodate pick-up. 

• Stationary has become a visually appealing part of any marital celebration, whether it comes in the form of formal invitations, announcement cards, etc. As sustainability becomes more prominent in the wedding world, stationary vendors are offering an array of “green” options. They are using paper materials that are made from natural and recycled products, which are often biodegradable or compostable. If you wish to forego physical stationery altogether, you can create stunning digital invites or announcements too. 

• Choose an eco-friendly venue. These venues are becoming increasingly common, and tend to offer sustainable amenities like solar power and specific waste management programs. You can look for eco-resorts, off-grid lodges, or park-approved sites that actively contribute to environmental preservation. Venues are continually finding new ways to blend luxury with sustainability, so there’s no compromise necessary.  

Tip: If you’re looking for a way to really embody a Leave No Trace wedding experience, you can calculate your event’s carbon footprint, and then contribute to projects like reforestation, renewable energy, or wildlife conservation. Many organizations offer carbon offset programs to help neutralize the emissions associated with your wedding.

Inspiring Stories of Low-Impact Weddings

Many couples are already leading the way with sustainable celebrations. From elopements on scenic highways, to intimate gatherings in venue spaces that practice responsible ecotourism, couples are proving that it’s possible to celebrate love in big ways without deteriorating wild places in the environment. Here are a few real-life examples:

• Ally and Trey tied the knot along Big Sur’s famous coastline. They chose to work with MacDonald Farm, a local caterer that specializes in farm-to-table catering. They grow nearly all of their own ingredients, making unique food products that are staples in the menus they design for their clients.

You can learn more about MacDonald Farm here, or you can view Ally and Trey’s Big Sur wedding experience here. 

• Alexis and James hosted their wedding at the ever-impressive Hacienda Siesta Alegre in Puerto Rico. They chose a venue where most of their friends and family could stay on-site with them to cut back on transportation around the island. Furthermore, they handed out mini terracotta pots with a variety of seeds as their wedding favors.

View their day here!

These stories illustrate how creativity and commitment to sustainability can result in an elegant, low-impact wedding or elopement without reducing the meaning or feel of the whole experience.

Learn More About LNT Weddings and Elopements

Choosing a Leave No Trace wedding is an honorary way of celebrating this time in your lives, while still respecting the planet. Being mindful of the environment protects the pristine nature of wedding sites everywhere, and sets an example for a more sustainable future. Every choice – from travel to decor – can contribute to a wedding experience that leaves behind memories rather than permanent footprints.

For those considering a destination wedding or elopement, Leave No Trace principles offer a powerful reminder that we are stewards of the natural world. Your wedding has the power to be a reflection of that commitment, ensuring that the places you love stay beautiful for years to come. If you want more information on Leave No Trace weddings or how to plan your own, submit this form to get started! 

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