Your love story is special, and it even has the potential to help make the world a better place. It is quite possible for your wedding to both be the best day of your life and also benefit those in need.
If you’re interested in adding some charitable aspects to your big day, here are five ideas.
1. Create a Charity Registry
If you feel like you already have everything you need, why not ask your guests to donate to a charitable cause in your honor? Guests will love the opportunity to put dollars set aside to celebrate you toward something that makes a difference—especially when you have done the research for them and direct them to one or two organizations you’re passionate about.
There are even websites like The Good Beginning that will help you create your own charity registry. “The couples who work with The Good Beginning love the idea of doing something good with their wedding day and are the type of individuals that believe generosity is needed now more than ever,” Beth Helmstetter, the website’s founder, told Brides.
Helmstetter also said that creating a charity registry doesn’t mean you can’t also create a traditional gift registry.
“Adding a charitable registry option is just another way to give guests choices in the sort of gift they give the couple,” she said. “[The couple] will get a set of towels as a tangible gift, but guests are so moved by the charitable option that they will make a modest donation as well.”
2. Hire Local
Another great way to ensure your wedding has a positive impact is to hire locally- and minority-owned vendors. To start, Equally Wed showcases Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ wedding vendors around the world.
3. Donate Your Dress, Flowers, and Leftover Food
So much at your wedding can be given a second life when the celebration is over. Donating your wedding dress will not only help another marrier in need, but it is also great for the environment. Organizations like Adorned in Grace and Brides for a Cause are two of many that accept used wedding dresses.
You should also consider donating your flowers to a local hospital or nursing home, so they can continue to be enjoyed long after the night is over. And finally, talk to your caterer about the possibility of delivering any leftover food to a local soup kitchen, food bank or homeless shelter.
4. Choose a Nonprofit Venue
Getting married at a nonprofit space is a great way to make sure your wedding dollars go directly back into the community, says Bridal Guide. Whether a charitable organization, a museum or something else, you are sure to find a nonprofit venue that is both beautiful and a great cause.
5. Volunteer With Your Wedding Party
Before the wedding, Bridal Guide also suggests asking your wedding party to join you for a day of volunteering. You could work at a soup kitchen, build a house with your Habitat for Humanity chapter, or prepare care-kits for homeless shelters. The possibilities are truly endless. Volunteering is not only a great way to give back, but also a wonderful opportunity for your wedding party to spend some time together before the big day.
