Something Old, New, Borrowed, and
Green?
Promises to love and honour may soon
be joined by a commitment to the environment, according to the latest trend in
nuptual planning. "Brides, most especially more educated ones, consider possible
environmental impacts at every stage of the planning process," says resorts co-general
manager Adele Caton, "right down to the honeymoon destination." The resorts generally
hear from couples after they have done considerable research on where they want
to be wed. Couples know the resorts are eco-friendly and they know about participatory
environmental programs. Resort ceremonies tend to be smaller (50 guests or less),
intimate affairs that incorporate indigenous elements at every turn. Garlands
and bouquets of local salal and fern fronds from the rainforest - peppered with
shells and starfish and wildflowers. Cuisine is always coastal and very often
organic. Invitations tend to be handmade of recycled, unbleached paper. Bridesmaid
and groomsmen gifts are most-often made by local artisans. "A favourite gift exchange
happens during the ceremony itself, when the bride and groom assume a First Nations'
tradition of offering each other hand-carved and hand-painted cedar journey paddles
- a symbol of embarking on a lifelong journey together. So much for Vegas! |