Eco-friendly favors

As far as brides go, I think I fall squarely within the more laid-back camp. As mightily as I try, I just can't bring myself to obsess over table linens, hairstyles, or seating arrangements. I suppose I do care about these things to an extent - just not with the fervor that everyone seems to expect.

One thing that I do feel strongly about, however, is reducing the footprint that my wedding festivities leave on the earth. To that end, we are trying to incorporate eco-friendly and sustainable elements wherever possible. The reception dinner menu will use local and organic ingredients and a local brewery will provide the refreshments. My mom and a friend of hers will be doing the flower arrangements, using flowers purchased wholesale from a local gardener. We are minimizing the use of paper products in various ways (for example: drawing the seating chart on a large chalkboard instead of using escort cards and place cards).

As the wedding draws near, I have been researching eco-friendly favor options. Below are a few of my favorites that I thought I'd share. If you had or are planning a "green" wedding, I would love to hear your ideas!

Organic Tea

At $11 each, this certified organic tea (shown here in Mind Fields flavor) is a bit expensive for a favor, but you could divide the tea leaves into small muslin bags tied and tie them up with a pretty ribbon. You could also purchase a sampler for each guest, which, at $3.95 is a more reasonable favor option. From Republic of Tea.

Seed Packet

These cute packets contain certified organic seeds for your choice of herbs (choose between parsley, dill, and basil). The packet reads "Savor every moment with herbs!" So cute. Also available in yellow, blue, orange, or yellow. $1.49 each from Wedding Things.

Gift Tree

What could be more green than encouraging your guests to plant a tree? Each one comes in its own clear recyclable plastic tube complete with planting and care instructions. The trees can be planted outdoors or grown for months indoors. You can even create a custom label. There are three packaging options (tubed, individually mailed, or bagged), starting at $2.00 each. From the Arbor Day Foundation.

Organic Chocolate Bar

This chocolate bar features the Karner Blue Butterfly on the outside of the 30% post-consumer paper wrapper, along with information about this endangered species on the inside. You can choose from among a number of endangered species, but I personally love the vibrant blue color of the butterfly bar. Made from ethically traded, shade-grown, organic-certified chocolate (it's also vegan and gluten-free). $3.99 each, from Endangered Species Chocolate.

Herb Garden Kit

Not only is this herb garden kit adorable, it's also super eco-friendly with its 100% biodegradable bowl (made of rice hulls - not plastic!) and certified organic seeds. Choose from among a variety of herbs, including crowd-pleasers like basil, chives, cilantro, parsley, and dill. The only drawback is that, at $18 a pop, they're a bit expensive for favors. However, they would make great bridesmaid gifts or shower favors. From Olive Barn.

All images were found on the respective company's websites.