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Getting married, and everything that comes with it, is one of the most magical experiences you can share with your loved ones, but for those who want to ensure their celebrations are in alignment with their ethical values, it can also be a little daunting. Of course, it is absolutely possible to organise a luxurious and ethical wedding – you don’t have to miss out on any element, it just requires a little extra research and planning.
One thing we have learnt from our customers is that the combination of ethical and luxurious credentials when purchasing an engagement ring is essential. There is no reason why ethical goods cannot be luxurious, and almost any kind of luxury goods can be ethical. Here at MADE Diamonds we are proud to provide a high quality, luxurious product combined with eco-friendly and compassionate values. We wanted to help anyone considering planning an ethical wedding by showing that there are all kinds of fabulous ethical options available at each stage of the wedding planning process. The journey of wedded bliss starts long before those two little words are uttered in front of your friends and family; it starts before you book the location, before you choose the dress, and even before a certain question is ‘popped’. |
The First Consideration
Let’s start at the beginning. For ethically-minded people who want to plan a surprise engagement, ensuring that all aspects are in keeping your shared values and beliefs is vital. A thoughtfully put together engagement that is in line with yours and your partner's way of life transforms a naturally exciting and special moment into one with even more significance.
So, you’ve reached the decision that you want to ask your partner to spend the rest of their life with you, and you’re eager to do so in the most meaningful way possible. It’s no surprise that the engagement ring takes centre stage, and the default rock of choice is of course a diamond. Just how detrimental diamond mining is to the planet, countless ecosystems, wildlife, without mentioning the myriad human rights issues, is often something that even the most ethically-minded of people are unaware of.
Natural diamonds are perceived as luxurious, rare and a special symbol of love, but unfortunately the reality is very, very different.
So, you’ve reached the decision that you want to ask your partner to spend the rest of their life with you, and you’re eager to do so in the most meaningful way possible. It’s no surprise that the engagement ring takes centre stage, and the default rock of choice is of course a diamond. Just how detrimental diamond mining is to the planet, countless ecosystems, wildlife, without mentioning the myriad human rights issues, is often something that even the most ethically-minded of people are unaware of.
Natural diamonds are perceived as luxurious, rare and a special symbol of love, but unfortunately the reality is very, very different.
Not All Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend
The problem with natural diamonds is that whilst you may think natural is always the best option, diamond mining is extremely energy-intensive, environmentally damaging and there is sadly a huge lack of transparency within the supply chain. With growing concern across the globe regarding just how this behaviour impacts delicate ecosystems, it is more important than ever to explore how socially responsible, man-made alternatives can promise fantastic quality, without the negative environmental impacts.
According to the Environmental Impact Analysis: Production of Rough Diamonds report in 2015, mined diamonds produced 57,000 grams per carat of harmful carbon emissions, compared to 0.028 grams per carat from their lab created counterparts. But it isn’t just the toll on the planet’s resources that is the problem here, poor labour practices, human rights abuses and the degradation of the habitat and homes of local wildlife can make it difficult to see the natural diamond as anything other than an unnecessary evil.
According to the Environmental Impact Analysis: Production of Rough Diamonds report in 2015, mined diamonds produced 57,000 grams per carat of harmful carbon emissions, compared to 0.028 grams per carat from their lab created counterparts. But it isn’t just the toll on the planet’s resources that is the problem here, poor labour practices, human rights abuses and the degradation of the habitat and homes of local wildlife can make it difficult to see the natural diamond as anything other than an unnecessary evil.
The Best of Both Worlds
A sustainable, eco-friendly and responsibly-created engagement ring allows you to start a new chapter in your life knowing that you are aware of the conditions under which your ring has been created, and that it has a much smaller environmental footprint than a mined diamond engagement ring. Combining new technologies that do away with the harmful outdated mystique of mined diamonds, with the time-honoured traditions of fine craftsmanship in jewellery production is the new reality that ethically minded couples are able to enjoy.
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Luxury is no longer simply about the quality and style of jewellery, clothes or accessories – it’s about much more than that; it’s about having the knowledge and control over what you are buying, the conditions under which it was made, where it is from, and creating a meaningful experience as a result.
Knowledge is Power
Once the proverbial question has been popped, you have shown off your stunning ethical engagement ring to all your envious family and friends, and you have decided on the all important date, it is time to get down to the serious business of planning the big day. Planning a wedding will perhaps be one of the most stressful times of your life, and you may feel even more anxious about ensuring that your wedding fits with your core values which are so important to you. So, where to begin?
First of all, rest assured that there is a growing movement of sustainable, eco-friendly brands and businesses out there that can help you plan a wedding that incorporates your beliefs. All you need is time, energy and a place to write down all your thoughts. Ready? Let’s get to it...
First of all, rest assured that there is a growing movement of sustainable, eco-friendly brands and businesses out there that can help you plan a wedding that incorporates your beliefs. All you need is time, energy and a place to write down all your thoughts. Ready? Let’s get to it...
The Venue
Not long after the engagement, you’ll probably start thinking about the ideal location to say “I do”. Perhaps you’ve always dreamt of a lavish castle, or a beautiful stately home with luscious grounds. Or maybe you’d even like to consider an outdoor set-up!
There are many things to take into account, but with a little creativity, you can enjoy a luxurious location, that also has a conscious.
There are many things to take into account, but with a little creativity, you can enjoy a luxurious location, that also has a conscious.
The Great OutdoorsThe British weather is not always ideal, but opting for an outdoor venue, for example a peaceful meadow surrounded by summer-time flowers, allows you to celebrate your special day with probably the most impressive of backdrops; nature itself.
Contact local farmers and landowners to see whether they rent out land for such occasions. Supporting local organic fruit and vegetable farmers is a great way to give back to the area’s financial eco-system, and you could also discuss using some of that delicious local produce for the wedding breakfast too. You’ll need to consider practical issues, such as where your guests will dine and congregate; we recommended wedding tents or yurts, such as the locally-sourced and responsibly-produced options created by Alternative Wedding Tents. If you’d like to head across the channel, La Maison Vègane in central France opens next year and will offer glamping, barn weddings and plant-based catering too! |
Image Credit: Alternative Wedding Tents
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Medieval Moments in Romantic Ruins
There are few things more romantic and impressive than centuries-old ruins, so why not consider bringing an old building or castle back to life with your nuptials? By doing so, you’ll not only enjoy an original setting, but the costs paid will go towards the upkeep and maintenance of a cherished and historic location so future generations can enjoy its wonders as well.
A Blank Canvas
By opting for a local village hall or even a marquee in your home, not only are you reducing your environmental footprint, you’ll also find that this will give you more creative freedom when it comes to the interior design of the space. Fill it with eco-friendly soy candles, seasonal flowers, photographs of your life together so far – the decision is yours!
The Catering
There’s a growing number of sustainable catering companies in the UK, who can prepare delicious, ethical and plant-based banquets, meals and buffets. If you’re not sure where to start, begin with local business Facebook groups that are in alignment with your values and simply state your needs. Ethical online groups are also brilliant for recommendations from people who have done it all before.
You’ll need to consider whether you want to opt for a sit-down meal, or a buffet-style affair, and also be mindful of any dietary-requirements your guests may have so they can be accommodated as well. Companies such as Cool Beans Kitchen based in Leeds can put together impressive menus that cater for allergy and dietary requirements.
Naturally, you’ll be celebrating with plenty of bubbly, so why not opt for Thomson and Scott’s Skinny Champagne or Skinny Prosecco. Not only do all the products have between 0.1g-7g of sugar per litre, there are no additives, pesticides or animal by-products included either. Cheers!
You’ll need to consider whether you want to opt for a sit-down meal, or a buffet-style affair, and also be mindful of any dietary-requirements your guests may have so they can be accommodated as well. Companies such as Cool Beans Kitchen based in Leeds can put together impressive menus that cater for allergy and dietary requirements.
Naturally, you’ll be celebrating with plenty of bubbly, so why not opt for Thomson and Scott’s Skinny Champagne or Skinny Prosecco. Not only do all the products have between 0.1g-7g of sugar per litre, there are no additives, pesticides or animal by-products included either. Cheers!
Image Credit: Cool Beans Kitchen
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Image Credit: Thomson and Scott
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Image Credit: Vic's Vegan Bakes
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The Cake
Happily, just as there are plenty of caterers who can create meals and feasts for everyone, there are also more and more cake companies that specialise in wedding cakes that can appeal to all, regardless of dietary requirements. By using a business that regularly deals with customers with specific requests, you’re more likely to end up with exactly what you want – a delicious cake that everyone can enjoy.
Vic’s Vegan Bakes creates stunning ethical wedding cakes that contain no animal products, and are popular choices for both vegan and non-vegan couples. Gluten-free, nut-free and soya-free diets can all be catered for.
Vic’s Vegan Bakes creates stunning ethical wedding cakes that contain no animal products, and are popular choices for both vegan and non-vegan couples. Gluten-free, nut-free and soya-free diets can all be catered for.
The Dress and Accessories
Image Credit: Annaborgia
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Every bride needs her dress, and there are plenty of stunning and sustainable options to think about. More and more people are choosing to go vintage, even wearing a dress once belonging to their mother or grandmother, or even replicating a favourite design using a skilled tailor and quality eco-fabric.
Founder and Creative Director of sustainable fashion brand Annaborgia, Daniela Degrassi is dedicated to creating timeless pieces that are also environmentally-friendly and quite the opposite of fast fashion. Speaking to us about her desire to produce ethical bridal wear she said: “Working in the wedding industry as a photographer for over a decade, I witnessed first-hand the over-the-top styles of bridesmaid dresses; I found it to be a total waste because it rarely happens such gowns get worn again. This motivated me to create a clothing line that would be ceremony-friendly while providing brides and bridesmaids the ability to re-purpose their looks well beyond the wedding. Minimalism can still be glamorous, while allowing more versatile styling options, from formal to casual. Our goal at Annaborgia is to break the rules of wedding attire and become game changers during these pivotal times where sustainability is crucial to save our planet”. |
To go with your wedding dress, you’ll need some shoes to match. Italian shoe designers Dá Quy not only produce the most beautiful of designs, all the fabrics are fully eco-friendly and free from animal products. Beyond Skin is also committed to producing handmade ethical shoes for men and women, and you’ll definitely want to wear these over and over again!
A wedding is not a wedding without a hat or two, and Warrillow millinery creates bespoke hats and headpieces that are crafted by hand with sustainable materials. All packaging is recyclable and fittingly, the brand’s ethos is: Live ethically, look great.
A wedding is not a wedding without a hat or two, and Warrillow millinery creates bespoke hats and headpieces that are crafted by hand with sustainable materials. All packaging is recyclable and fittingly, the brand’s ethos is: Live ethically, look great.
Image Credit: Dá Quy
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Image Credit: Warrillow
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Image Credit: Beyond Skin
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The Groom and Groomsmen
Now we have the bride sorted, it’s time to turn our attention to the groom. The great thing about wedding suits for men, is that you can either hire, or buy forever – both options being sustainable.
Luxury designer Stella McCartney has launched her first luxury and cruelty-free range for men, and you’ll find some fantastic formal pieces, that are perfect for weddings and other special occasions. Speaking to Vogue, Stella commented:
“I don’t find that an emphasis on sustainability is evident in men’s fashion, so it was crucial to me to include that in my collection and bring that part of me into the realm of men’s fashion”.
US menswear brand Brave Gentleman has a range of high-end suits and formal wear, ranging from coats, to shoes, to suits. The company works on a slow-fashion production model, whilst adopting sustainable and ethical practices. International shipping is available.
Luxury designer Stella McCartney has launched her first luxury and cruelty-free range for men, and you’ll find some fantastic formal pieces, that are perfect for weddings and other special occasions. Speaking to Vogue, Stella commented:
“I don’t find that an emphasis on sustainability is evident in men’s fashion, so it was crucial to me to include that in my collection and bring that part of me into the realm of men’s fashion”.
US menswear brand Brave Gentleman has a range of high-end suits and formal wear, ranging from coats, to shoes, to suits. The company works on a slow-fashion production model, whilst adopting sustainable and ethical practices. International shipping is available.
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Image Credits: Brave Gentleman, Model: Richard Lima, Photographer: Jesse Scofield
The Gift of Love
Wedding presents traditionally consisted of items to help the happy couple set up their first home together. Today, the majority of newlyweds already are living together, which means that gifts are usually fancy appliances, or in the form of cash to go towards the honeymoon.
If you have all you need in your home, then why not consider setting up a charity wedding list? There are many deserving organisations out there that really do rely on the goodwill of others to carry out their great work. Choose a charity close to your heart, a local animal organisation or even one further afield, and share the love.
If you have all you need in your home, then why not consider setting up a charity wedding list? There are many deserving organisations out there that really do rely on the goodwill of others to carry out their great work. Choose a charity close to your heart, a local animal organisation or even one further afield, and share the love.
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We hope this has all given you food for thought when planning your wedding, from an ethical engagement ring, through to sustainable suits and shoes, to how to feed your friends and family. However, the most important thing is to not only enjoy the main event, but to also to enjoy the journey, and what better way to do so than making sure the best day of your life is in alignment with your core values and beliefs.
Begin your ethical wedding journey now... |
